The city of forts, Jodhpur in Rajasthan is home to several ancient temples built by skilled artisans and designed by architects renowned all over the then Indian subcontinent. One among them is the Uday Mandir Temple situated on the Uday Mandir Road of Jodhpur. This pilgrimage heritage site is sure to incite within you a sense of immense respect towards to the rich culture of knowledge and technology that embodied within Indians at that era when several civilisations were taking baby steps towards development. The Uday Mandir is another striking example of the intricate details put into the architecture plan of the temple. The holy site greets visitors with a grand welcome through its main gate that is carved with sandstones. On entering and facing the main temple, it is seen that the shrine is built on more than a 100 strong pillars.
Art and photography enthusiasts, this temple must visit place for you as you can brace yourself for a surge of awe-struck moments while viewing the highly-illustrated paintings hung within the beautifully carved walls of the temple. The sanctum sanctorum or the Garbha Griha is partially covered with a cloth that is embroidered with elegant designs. Gold pots cover the circumference of this cloth. Also, you come across paintings depicting 84 Yogasanas.
History of the Attraction
Known to be present before the establishment of princely states within Rajasthan, this temple places a great significance in terms of Indian architecture and culture. It inspires all with its display of various postures in Yoga and meditation that were in practice in India since the Vedic era.
Getting There
The Udai Mandir is located on the Udai Mandir Road and is clearly visible from a long distance, due to its mega size structure and beautiful architecture. It is barely 5kms from the Jodhpur Airport and is just a 13 minutes drive away. Those travelling through rail to Jodhpur, the temple is just 3 kms away from your line of sight. If you are travelling from Jaipur, then you need to drive to Uday Pur Panch Sheel Marg, Jodhpur, 330 kms away.
Things to Do in and around
After completing a satisfying sightseeing trip to the Uday Mandir, spend the remaining day roaming around the streets of Cycle Market, Sarafa Bazaar, Ganpati Markets and art emporiums displaying art and craft unique to the Rajputana culture of Rajasthan. Also you can visit the Lalji Handlooms and purchase souvenirs from Jodhpur Bazaar Woodcarving Centre. Finally do check into the numerous food outlets visited by tourists, which offer Dal Bati Churma, a popular Rajasthani dish that is sure to win over your taste buds.
Opening/Closing Timings and days
The magnificent temple opens at 9am and shuts down at 3pm every day for the visitors.
Entry Fees
Despite its grandeur, visitors are not charged with any entry fee.
Best Time to Visit
Jodhpur has a lot to offer to travel, culture, architecture and history buffs. To enjoy a memorable holiday in the vicinity of the Udai Mandir, visit the city during the months of winter, when you can devour the Rajasthani delicacies and explore to your heart’s content.