Jagdish temple is a Hindu temple which is very large in size and is situated in the middle of Udaipur in state of Rajasthan. It is a major tourist attraction which is also known as the temple of Jagannath Rai but is now called the temple of Jagdish Ji.
The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu who is also known as the preserver of the universe. The temple is celebrated as the largest temple in entire Udaipur. The gateway of the shrine can be seen from Bara Pol of the City Palace which is 150m away. This huge temple is constructed in the Indo- Aryan style of architecture. The temple is three storied and is an example of wonderful architecture. It comprises of beautifully carved pillars, painted walls, decorated ceilings, luscious halls, etc.
The skyline of Udaipur is dominated by the 79 feet high spire or shikhar of the main temple. The spire is decorated with various beautifully designed sculptures of elephants, dancers, musician and horsemen that will hold your sight. As one approaches the temple, two huge stone elephants will be there at the entrance to welcome. One can also find a stone slab wit inscriptions about Maharaja Jagat Singh in front of the temple. There is a marble flight of 32 steps which is to be taken to reach the main shrine.
A huge idol of Garuda which is half man half eagle made of brass will be seen as if it is keeping a guard on the doorway of the temple or the way to Lord Vishnu. The huge four-armed image of Lord Vishnu is housed in the main shrine. The idol has been made by carving it from a single black stone. One will reach the celestial word with just one glimpse of the idol. Four smaller shrines encircle the main shrine of Lord Vishnu which is centrally located. The four shrines are devoted to the Sun God, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Shakti respectively.
The temple consists of a mandap or prayer hall, a porch and a pyramidal spire which are designed beautifully. There are 50 pillars each in the first and second storey of the temple. The carvings can only be praised by someone who has enduring sight to value the beauty of the temple. The temple was built as per the Vastushashtra or Hindu architectural science. The beauty of the architecture and the interiors of the temple can never be explained in words.
HISTORY OF THE ATTRACTION
The temple was built on a tall terrace and the construction was over by the year 1651. It was built by the ruler of Udaipur during the year 1628-1653, Maharaja Jagat Singh. The entire construction of the temple cost 1.5 million rupees during that time. The temple is a perfect example of Maru-Gurjara architecture. The temple stands tall touching the skyline of Udaipur and making it the most beautiful structure in the city.
GETTING THERE
Udaipur is a well connected city so reaching there is not a problem. One can easily avail a bus, train or flight to reach the city and then can reach the temple by public transport.
THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND
One can visit the huge temple first of all and it is guaranteed that once anyone visits the temple, the person will not feel like coming back. Apart from that sightseeing can be done as well. The temple architecture will be a heart stealer for many and it is so huge that it will take time to finish seeing it.
OPENING/CLOSING TIMINGS
The temple is open to general public for all days of the week from early morning 05:00 AM to evening 09:00PM with all puja vidhis performed in time.
ENTRY FEE
There is no entry fee needed to enter the temple – it is open to all.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit the temple is during winter season as one can enjoy the best of sightseeing during that season with pleasant weather. Apart from that during festival one can visit the temple to see it in its best décor and pomp.
