Hindu temple in Udaipur
should-see attraction
Opening hours: 5:30am-2:00pm & 4:00pm-10:00pm
Address: 1 Jagdish Temple, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Ticket price: Free
Visit duration: People typically spend up to 45 minutes here
The picturesque city of Udaipur houses some of the most exquisite monuments that are a true reflection of Rajasthan's magnificence. Located near the City Palace complex, right at the heart of Udaipur is one such awe-inspiring temple called Jagdish Temple. It holds the reputation of being the most significant attraction in the area and the largest temple in the entire city of Udaipur.
This iconic structure is a Hindu temple dedicated to a Hindu God, Vishnu, who is believed to be the preserver of the universe. It was earlier known as the temple of Jagannath Rai, which is one of 1000 names of Vishnu. This makes it not only a major tourist attraction but also an ideal place where you can find peace.
In the year 1651, the Jagdish Temple was built by the ruler of Udaipur named Maharaja Jagat Singh who reigned from 1628 to 1653. He spent a total of ₹1.5 million for the entire construction and completion of the temple.
The temple was raised on a small terrace. When the Mughals were defeated by Mewar rulers, they took to vandalism and destroyed many carvings and figurines of the structure. The temple was renovated back to its former glory.
The Hindu architectural science of Vastu Shastra was used to construct the magnificent structure of Jagdish Temple. This colossal structure was built in the Indo- Aryan style of architecture. The three-storied and around 79 feet high temple carries mesmerising decorated ceilings, vibrantly painted walls, beautifully carved pillars and airy halls which truly are a sight to behold.
Two huge stone elephants will welcome you at the entrance of the temple. You can also find an inscription about Maharana Jagat Singh. There are statues of dancers, horsemen and musicians to welcome the visitors as well. You have to climb 32 stairs to reach the main temple where you will see the brass image of Garuda, who looks like a half human and half eagle who guards the house of deity, Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Garuda is Vishnu's man-bird vehicle. The main shrine of Lord Vishnu is carved out of a single black stone encircling four smaller shrines that house the idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, the Surya or Sun God, and the Goddess Shakti.
One of the most interesting things in the temple is a slab of marble with magical abilities. It is installed at the entrance of the main temple complex. It is believed and vouched by locals that if you rub your knees, shoulders or back against the marble slab, you will get quick relief from any kind of pain.
Entry to the Jagadish Temple is free for all visitors. Since you will have to remove your shoes before entering the shrine, you can pay a nominal tip to people standing at the entrance who look after your shoes.
The temple opens in two shifts every day with an interval of 2 hours in between. The temple opens early at 5:30 am and remains open till 2:00 pm. Then again it opens at 4:00 pm and closes at 10:00 pm.
The Jagdish Temple is a short walk from the City Palace.
See location on Google Maps
The Jagdish Temple is famous for its architectural beauty. The sculptures of elephants, murals and other detailed carvings attract tourists to visit the temple when they come to the City Palace.
You can spend around 45 minutes inside the temple. You can hire English or Hindi-speaking guides to understand the architecture inside the temple.
Udaipur City Palace which carries the sign of the history of the Mewar Dynasty is only 300 metres away from the Jagdish temple. In the middle of the famous Lake Pichola, which is only 400 metres away from the temple, you can visit the Lake Palace and Lake Garden Palace located on separate islands in the lake. Also, Bagore Ki Haveli, which is only 250 metres away, is a visual treat that you can visit from the Jagdish Temple.
Yes, you can click photos and shoot videos inside the temple.