Set off on a Spiritual Journey by Visiting These 20 Temples in Rajasthan!

There is something about Rajasthan, one of the most visited tourist destinations in India, that keeps pulling tourists back to it. The entire state appears like one magical vessel, which throws surprises at you from every corner. Alleys and bylanes give way to massive courtyards and before you know it, out pops a haveli from the middle of nowhere! Apart from forts, palaces and havelis, there are several temples which dot the state. Most of these were built during the reigns of kings, and have a historical importance attached to them. In some temples, tourists are amazed with the performance of a certain ritual, while the architecture of others tends to have a lasting impact on their minds. In this blog, we tell you the 20 must visit temples in Rajasthan that you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip.

1. Birla Mandir, Jaipur

Just like most of the cities across India, Jaipur also has its own Birla Mandir, which is one of the most visited temples in Rajasthan. Also known as Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, it enjoys a noticeable presence in the skyline of South Jaipur. It wears a refreshed look at all times, thanks to the white marble with which it was constructed. Built by the prosperous Birla family in 1998, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his companion, Goddess Laxmi, who is believed to bring good luck and fortune in Hinduism. Everything about this temple is extraordinary, with every corner being a work of perfection. Various mythological themes are reflected in the sculptures inside the temple. One of them which stand out is that of Laxmi and Narayana. These have been carved out of one piece of marble, which is no ordinary feat.

Did you know?

The Birla Mandir also spreads the message of secularism through its three domes, which reflect the three major religions in India, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.

Temple Timings: 06:30AM – 12:00PM, 03:00 – 08:30PM, open 7 days a week

2. Karni Temple, Bikaner

Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner is one of the most visited temples in Rajasthan. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Mata Karni, considered to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the 20th century in splendid Mughal style. Apart from the rats, the statue of Mata Karni, standing at almost 75cm, is a major crowd puller. It is also famously known as the Rat Temple, because rats are accorded the highest respect in this temple. In fact, they are worshipped just like the other deities of the temples. Visit the temple on any given day, and you will see hundreds of rats scurrying around its premises. Devotees place bowls of milk on the floor, which is then enjoyed by the rats. Afterwards, some of that is consumed by the devotees, as doing so is believed to bring about good luck and prosperity.

Did you know?

Some people say that at any given time, the Karni Mata Temple is home to almost 20,000 rats. Devotees believe that when the rats die, they are reincarnated as humans, and when humans die, they are reincarnated as rats. Wow, never knew rats had it so good!

Temple Timings: 05:00AM – 10:00PM

3. Brahma Mandir, Pushkar

Brahma Mandir in Pushkar is an extremely important religious tourist spot in Rajasthan. This temple is believed to be about 2000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Brahma, the god of creation in Hinduism. Although Pushkar has about 500 temples, the Brahma Temple is the most important of them all. The temple holds a special significance in the minds of the devotees. It is believed that Lord Brahma descended on earth and performed a yajna at the very spot where the temple today stands. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the statue of Lord Brahma along with his wife, Gayatri. Constructed of marble and stone slabs, its shikhara (tower) can be seen from a distance. The current structure, as it stands today, can be credited by Maharaja Jagat Raj of Ratlam.

Did you know?

Besides being one of the five sacred pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, Brahma Mandir also host a festival during Kartik Poornima and is visited by both devotees and tourists in large numbers.

Temple Timings: 06:00AM – 09:00PM

4. Salasar Balaji Temple, Churu

No pilgrimage tour to Rajasthan is complete without visiting the Salasar Balaji Temple in Churu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is visited by a large number of devotees all year round. Their numbers increase especially during the occasions of Chaita Purnima and Ashvin Purnima. This special attachment of the devotees for the temple is due to the fact that it is considered as swayambhu (self-created) and shakti sthal (a pilgrimage site blessed with ultimate power). The main deity of the temple is a childhood idol of Lord Hanuman which has an interesting mythological tale behind it. According to it, the village of Mehandipur was once troubled by regular attacks of demons. One day, the priest had a dream in which Lord Hanuman suggested him to dig the Aravalli hills in a specially chosen area. The digging revealed a childhood idol of Hanumanji, along with the idols of Pret Raja and Sri Ram.

Did you know?

The Salasar Balaji Temple in Churu is a part of religious circuit which also involves other pilgrim centers like Rani Sati Temple, Jeen Mata Temple and Khatu Shyam Ji, all of which are located in close proximity to the temple.

Temple Timings: 04:00AM – 10:00PM

5. Parshuram Mahadev Temple, Pali

One of the must visit places during your visit in Rajasthan is Parshuram Mahadev Temple in Pali. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located at the border of Pali and Rajsamand district. This temple occupies a special place in the minds of devotees because of a special mythological tale associated with it. It is believed that here, Lord Parshuram, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, carved the entire cave with his axe. This is also why this temple is also known as Amarnath Cave temple, and is situated at a height of almost 3,995ft. As you enter the temple, you come across idols of Lord Ganesh and Lord Shiva. One other special feature of the temple is the nine kunds, which devotees believe never goes dry. To reach the cave, you need to descend at least 500 steps.

Did you know?

The temple hosts two fairs throughout the year during the occasion of Shravan Shukla Ashtami and Saptami, which are usually held in the months of August/September. It is visited by thousands of devotees.

6. Ranakpur Jain Temple, Ranakpur

Ranakpur Jain Temple, located almost 90 km from the city of Udaipur, is a marvellous sight to come across. It covers an area of 48,000 sq, ft, with its architecture being a brilliant amalgamation of size and aesthetics. To give you an idea of its impressive dimensions, here are some statistics. The entire temple complex stands on 1,444 carved pillars and 24 pillared halls which are topped by 80 domes supported by 400 columns. A 6ft tall statue of Lord Adinath (the first Tirthankara in Jain history) is also a major attraction inside the temple, which sits gracefully under the largest spire of the main temple complex. Other temples which surround this temple are Surya Temple, Chaumukha Temple, Parshvanath Temple and Amba Mata Temple.

Did you know?

It is a testament to the temple’s splendid architecture and perfection that no two pillars are the same, with each one having its unique design.

Temple Timings: 12:00PM – 05:00PM

7. Neelkanth Temple, Alwar

Neelkanth Temple, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, lies in close proximity to the Sariska Tiger Reserve, one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan. The way to the temple is rugged, steep and rough, but what awaits you after it is worth the effort. What is called the Neelkanth Temple is in fact, a temple complex consisting of several temples. The main temple, however, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Almost all the temples are built in a north Indian style of architecture, characterised by shikhara, superstructure and a spire. The construction of the temple is credited to Maharajadhiraj (King of Kings) Mathanadeva. Located almost 100 meters from the temple stands an enormous stone statue of Jain Tirthankar Shantinath.

Did you know?

The walls of the main temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is adorned with several sculptures which lends it a stark resemblance to the Khajuraho Temple.

Temple Timings: 08:00AM – 06:00PM

8. Galtaji Temple, Jaipur

What is called Galtaji Temples are in fact a group of Hindu temples and a major Hindu pilgrimage site located about 10 km from the main city of Jaipur. Upon visiting this temple, don’t be surprised if you are greeted by a group of monkeys. Seated on the courtyards, temple premises and everywhere else, the monkeys are ubiquitous here. The present temple, as it stands today, was built by the courtier of Sawai Jai Singh II, Diwan Rao Kriparam, in the 16th century. The main temple, which is built of pink sandstone, is distinguishable by other features like rounded roofs, painted walls and carved pillars. Visitors to the temple are also fascinated by its numerous water tanks, which are seven in number. The main among them is the Galtaji Tank. They are fed by natural springs which are located inside the temple premises. Devotees to the temple often take a dip in its water as it is believed to cure several medicinal properties.

Did you know?

One of the temple in Galtaji called Ram Sita Temple is always occupied by monkeys throughout the year. They were featured in a program series run by National Geographic called Rebel Monkeys.

Temple Timings: 05:00AM – 09:00PM

9. Tanot Mata Temple, Jaisalmer

Sometimes, certain events reinforce our belief in the supernatural, and even a sceptic is forced to acknowledge the existence of the Supreme Power, that what we call God. Tanot Mata Temple, located about 120 km from Jaisalmer, is an example of that. The tempe is located in close proximity to Longewala, on the India-Pakistan border. The temple is dedicated to Tanot Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Hinglaj. While the structure of the temple is quite humble and sobre, the temple is held in the highest esteem by devotees, because of an incident during the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war. During the war, despite many shells and bombs being directed towards the temple, it remained perfectly safe because none of them exploded. This reinforced peoples’ belief that the temple was protected at all times by Goddess Tanot. Not only did the BSF rebuild the temple after the war, it is also managed by a trust in their name.

Did you know?

There is a museum located just beside the temple which houses several artefacts from the India Pakistan war and is a great attraction for tourists.

10. Rani Sati Temple, Jhunjhunu

Even today, people of Rajasthan narrate the story of Rani Sati, also known as Dadi Ji, with immense pride and devotion. The Rani Sati Temple, located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, is dedicated to her heroism and bravery. One of the characters in the Hindu mythological epic, Mahabharata, Rani Sati committed self-immolation after her husband’s death, thus proving her unflinching devotion to him. The temple is built from pure white marble and graced by the presence of exquisite paintings. A notable feature of the temple is the absence of any statues, of either male or female gods. Instead, the sanctum sanctorum houses a trident, which symbolises power, vigor, strength and bravery. There are other smaller temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha, along with 12 smaller sati temples. An aarti is performed at the temple twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Did you know?

The temple dates back 400 years and is the largest of its kind dedicated to Rani Sati.

Temple Timings: 05:30AM – 01:00PM; 03:00PM – 10:30PM

11. Ambika Mata Temple, Udaipur

Ambika Mata Temple, located about 50 km from Udaipur in a village called Jagat, is counted among the most beautiful temples in Rajasthan. Dedicated to Ambika Devi, considered to be a form of Goddess Durga, it is renowned for its exquisite carvings which lend it a resemblance to the famous Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh. Various sculptures of gods and goddesses, court dancers, musicians and apsaras (beautiful heavenly beings) grace the exteriors of the temples. The theme of the temple is that of a mountain palace, which is believed to be a heavenly abode of the gods. The motifs adorning the shikhara (temple tower) is that of clouds, and make for an extremely pleasing sight. There are several smaller shikaras surrounding the main one, and these are thought to represent various mountain peaks. What ultimately catches the visitor’s fancy is the sculptures, a feature which makes it quite different from the other temples.

Did you know?

Ambika Mata Temple is also known as the Khajuraho of Rajasthan because of its sculptures which bear a strong resemblance to those found in Khajuraho.

Temple Timings: 06:00AM – 07:00PM

12. Eklingji Temple, Udaipur

Eklingji Temple in Udaipur is one of the temples which you should visit as part of a religious trip to Rajasthan. It has gone through several modifications through the years, but always retained its grandeur and charm. The original temple was built by Bappa Rawal (founder of the Mewar dynasty) in the 8th century. In the 15th century, Rana Kumbha rebuilt the temple while constructing a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to various historical sources, the last construction of the temple was carried out by Rana Raimal (son of Rana Kumbha). The statue which you see today inside the temple was installed by him, and therefore holds a special place among the locals. The temple also amazes visitors with its magnificent architecture. It is two storied and consists of a pyramidal shaped roof. As you enter, you are welcomed by an enormous roof which houses a large silver image of Nandi (bull of Lord Shiva and his vehicle). However, the highlight of the temple is the shivling which is garlanded by a silver snake.

It is surrounded by the statues of Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya and Goddess Parvati.

Did you know?

Two water tanks named Karz Kund and Tulsi Kund, are located to the north of the temple. During the occasion of Shivratri (a festival dedicated to Lord Shiva), its water is consumed by everybody visiting the temple.

Temple Timings: 04:15AM – 06:45AM, 10:30AM – 01:30PM, 05:15PM – 07:45PM

13. Shri Mahavir Ji Temple, Karauli

Jain temples are some of the most famous temples in Rajasthan. One of these is Shri Mahavir Ji Temple, located in the Karauli district in Rajasthan. However, even though the name may suggest otherwise, there are five temples in this temple complex. Each is as grand and splendid as the other in terms of architecture and magnificence. The five temples are Atishaya Kshetra Shri Mahavirji, Bhagwan Parshvanath Jinalaya, Shantinath Jinalaya and Kirti Ashram Chaityalaya. There is something special about each of these temples. At the Atishaya Kshetra Temple, the Manastambha, also known as the Column of Pride, is the main attraction. Standing at almost 52ft, it is topped by Tirthankaras staring in four directions. The Bhagan Jinalaya Temple is also called kaanch ka mandir (temple of mirrors), because of its spectacular mirror work. The Shantinath Jinalaya is most famous for its 32 ft statue of Shantinath (the 16th Jain Tirthankar).

Did you know?

The temple hosts an annual fair in the month of April every year, the highlight of which is a grand rath yatra. It is attended by Jain devotees from all around the world.

Temple Timings: 05:00AM – 08:00PM

14. Bullet Baba Temple, Jodhpur

During your religious visit to Rajasthan, you will explore many temples, all of which have some traditions and history associated with them. However, the Bullet Baba Temple is different from any kind of temple you may have come across. Located in the Plai district of Jodhpur, this temple is also known as Om Banna, or, Bullet Banna. It is dedicated to a motorcycle, or more specifically, the 350cc Royal Bullet motorcycle. In fact, upon visiting the temple, you will know the interesting tale behind it. It is said that a man by the name of Om Banna, also called Om Singh Rathore, was travelling on 2nd December 1991 to a village called Chotila. Suddenly, he lost control of the motorcycle completely, causing it to crash against a tree, thus killing him immediately. Next morning, the villagers took the motorcycle to a police station located in close proximity to the site of the accident. However, it was found at the site of the accident the next day. This time, the police took the motorcycle to the police station, with the same outcome. The villagers called it a miracle and to express their reverence, built a temple. Today, anybody passing the temple always stops and offers his prayers at the temple. Some devotees offer alcohol, while some apply verminion and garland it. Well, what can we say except that miracles abound in the state of Rajasthan.

Did you know?

The Bullet Baba Temple is held in such high esteem by the devotees that not stopping by to pay your respects and seek blessings is believed to bring bad luck for the rest of your journey.

Temple Timings: 06:00AM – 07:15PM

15. Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Ranthambore

Ranthambore is famous for the Ranthambore National Park, one of the most visited national parks of Rajasthan. It is also home to Trinetra Ganesh Temple. Although there are hundreds of temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha across the country, this one is special because it is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Ganesha containing his entire family. The temple is located inside the Ranthambore Fort, about 12 km from Sawai Madhopur, which is another popular tourist attraction in Rajasthan. Five aartis are held inside the temple throughout the day, and is attended by devotees in large numbers.

Did you know?

The significance of the temple can never be explained without mentioning a popular tale associated with it. It is believed that during a war between King Hameer and Ala-ud-din Khilji in 1299 AD, the King fell extremely short of resources. He remembered Lord Ganesha who assured him that everything would be fine the next day. Miraculously enough, the symbol of Lord Ganesha was carved on one of the walls of the fort the next morning, while the war inexplicably came to an end. Surprised and overwhelmed by emotion, King Hameer constructed a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Temple Timings: 06:00AM – 08:00PM

16. Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Sirohi

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Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple is located in close proximity to Achaleshwar Fort, one of the forts in Rajasthan which lies in a dilapidated state today. It is located in the city of Sirohi and was built during the 9th century by the famous Paramara dynasty (a Rajput dynasty that ruled most of Malwa and areas in west-central India between the 9th and 14th centuries). One of the reasons you should visit this temple is its incredible structure which is an example of classic magnificence. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva while the shivling is a naturally occurring stone structure. Apart from the shivlinga, there are other smaller shrines dedicated to Nadi, his vehicle. A major crowd puller at the temple is the enormous statues of Lord Nandi which has been constructed using five metals (known as panchdhatu in Hinduism). The temple complex is home to a pit, which is believed to be the way to hell by the devotees. There is also a small pond, and near to it stand three water buffaloes which are said to represent demons.

Did you know?

For many years, it was not known to many people that the temple was built of marble. In 1979, extensive renovations carried out by the king revealed the huge marble blocks hidden under the lime.

Temple Timings: 05:00AM – 07:00PM

17. Surya Narayan Temple, Jhalawar

Surya Narayan Temple, located in the Jhalawar district, is one of the ancient temples in Rajasthan which you should not miss out on during your trip. No sooner do you arrive at this temple than you are reminded of the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha. Such is the similarity in design and architecture. It is believed that the temple was built by Maharaja Nagbhatta II of the Pratihara Rajput dynasty. Although the temple is dedicated to the Sun god, he is worshipped here in a different avatar. In this temple, the sun god is represented as Lord Narayana, the four armed god. Apart from the sun god, the deity of Lord Padmanathji is also accorded the same reverence. Visitors to the temple always remark on its splendid architecture, from its massive walls to its shikaharas (towers) and artistically created dome.

Did you know?

A beautiful sight awaits visitors to the temple in the morning, when the first rays of the sun kiss the feet of Lord Narayana in the sanctum sanctorum.

Temple Timings: 07:00AM – 10:30AM, 03:30PM – 06:30PM

18. Kalika Mata Temple, Chittorgarh

The Chittorgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India besides being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the capital of Mewar, it houses several monuments which astound onlookers with their sheer brilliance. One among those is Kalika Mata Temple in Chittorgarh. Situated just across Padmini Palace, this temple was built under the reign of Pratihara Rajput dynasty. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, it is situated on an elevated rock and accessible via a flight of stairs. Apart from its historic importance, this temple also stands out for its thick pillars, huge domes and mandapas (porch like structure). A ratri jagran is also held in the temple complex in the evenings.

Did you know?

It is widely believed by the locals that the temple was originally a Sun Temple before it was rebuilt as a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Temple Timings: 06:00AM – 08:00PM

19. Bisaldev Temple, Bisalpur

Bisaldev Temple, located in the quaint village of Bisalpur in the district of Pali, Rajasthan, is one of the most famous temples in Rajasthan. It is very important historically and for this reason, has been declared as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Gokarneswara (a form of Lord Shiva), was built by Vigraharaja IV of the Chahamanas dynasty (a branch of Agnivanshi Rajputs). Because the temple is located alongside the Bisalpur Dam on Banas River, its courtyard remains submerged whenever there is an increase in the water levels. The temple is also impressive by its sheer dimensions. Inside the sanctum sanctorum, you come across a shivlinga. One of the special attractions inside the temple are its pillars which are adorned with intricate designs and carvings. When the water level is low, one can get amazing views of the river ahead from the temple’s courtyard.

Did you know?

There are several short inscriptions at the site of the temple dating back to the 12th century, and of immense historical importance.

Temple Timings: Always open

20. Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu

India is dotted with Jain temples, each beautiful in its own way. One of the most famous Jain temples in India is Dilwara Jain Temples in Mount Abu. Located about 3 km from Mount Abu, the famous hill station of Rajasthan, it was built between the 11th and 13th centuries AD by Vipul Shah and Vastupal Tejpal, two prominent Jain ministers. The intricate marble carvings on pillars, panels and doorways i simply unparalleled. There are five Dilwara Jain Temples in all. These are, Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar Temple, Shri Parshvanatha Temple and Shri Mahavir Swami Temple. Each of these temples have something unique to offer in terms of architecture. For example, the upper walls of the porch in Shri Mahavir Swami Temple are adorned with lovely paintings, while the Pittalhar Temple houses an enormous metal statue of Rishab Dev (also known as Adinath in Jain literature. The Luna Vashi temple is also a major crowd puller with its 72 Jain tirthankaras in a seated circle along with 320 Jain monks seated in another circle carved out of white marble.

Did you know?

The Dilwara Jain Temples featured in a postal stamps issued by the Indian Postal Department in 2009.

Temple Timings: 12:00PM – 6:00PM

There you have it, the 20 must visit temples in Rajasthan. Plan a trip to Rajasthan soon and visit these unique temples. If you have enjoyed reading this blog, please like and share it as much as you can.

Also, if you want us to plan a pilgrimage tour for you in India, please feel free to contact us at +91-9212777223/24 and info@tourmyindia.com. We at Tour My India offer some great pilgrimage tour packages ensuring your spiritual journey is memorable and convenient all the time.