India

Jagdish Temple

The Jagdish Temple is one of the jewels of Udaipur's religious heritage. Housed in the palace complex of the city, this building built in Indo-Aryan architecture houses authentic sculptures and statues.

History

The Jagdish Temple, also known as Laxmi Narayan, was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh. The latter ruled Udaipur between 1628 and 1653. The construction of this shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu required a budget of 1.5 million rupees at the time.

According to legend, the Jagdish Temple would have supernatural power. It contains a slab with the magic ability to mitigate various ailments. The pains of certain parts of the body would subside, or even disappear, by rubbing against the slab.

The temple has preserved many sculptures, such as elephants, horses and warriors, most of them deteriorated. The statues and engravings were destroyed by the Mughals after their defeat during the various battles that took place around the city. The invaders appeased their anger by vandalizing and disfiguring the Jagdish Temple sculptures.

Visit the Jagdish Temple

The Jagdish Temple is one of the largest temples in the city of Udaipur. Dedicated to the conservator of the universe, Lord Vishnu, the building incorporates lush rooms, a carved ceiling and finely carved pillars. Access to the temple is from the barapol of the palace of the city.

The Jagdish Temple has three floors that are all worth visiting. Its tower is about 22 m high and dominates the Udaipur skyline. Passing the steps of the main complex, you can see the decorative statues of elephants. Although most of the sculptures are now in ruins, their distinctive features demonstrate their beauty of yesteryear.

The walls of the temple and its Sikhara are also decorated with authentic sculptures, illustrating among others dancers, riders and musicians. Do not miss Vishnu's depictions of Lord Krishna's scenes of life, nymphs and apsaras figures, and Garuda's brass image.

Schedules and entrance fees

The Jagdish Temple is open to visitors every day of the week, Monday to Sunday, from 5am to 9pm. Free entry.

Guides speaking English and Hindi are waiting for you on the spot to optimize the discovery.

How to get there ?

Udaipur can be reached from major Indian cities by plane, train, taxi or bus. The Jagdish Temple stands in the center of the city, served by buses and other road transport from the airport or train station.