Half Day Aravalis & Ancient temples

Travel from modern highway to country roads leading us back in time through the stunning Aravali mountains passing through traditional villages where farming methods have changed little, where ox and plough or camels are still used. A chance to mix with the local people.

We arrive at Saas Bahu temples,( a local corruption of the original Sahasra-Bahu, meaning “one with a thousand arms”, a form of Vishnu), however these temples are dedicated to Virabhadra ( a fierce form of the Hindu God Shiva). These late 10th century temples are in Nagda village. It is a serene site with many intricately carved figures adorning the stone walls & ceilings. It is elevated on a large stone platform with views of the beautiful Bagela Lake.

Leaving here we drive alongside Bagela Lake where sometimes water buffalo are seen wading & kingfishers or sapphire blue sunbirds can be seen feeding from Lantana Camara , an invasive shrub here in India, that has nectar filled tiny pink & yellow flowers.

We stop at the ancient stone ghats used by people to bathe from or wash clothes, nice photos across the lake from here.

Arriving in Eklingji, a very busy place due to its centuries old Eklingji Temple. It was built in the 8th century, by the Maharanas of Mewar who worshipped Lord Shiva. One of Lord Shivas names is Eklingji, hence the temples name.

Many thousands of devotees walk many miles on pilgrimage to this temple.

We can get refreshments here before we journey a few hundred metres behind the temple to the peace & quiet of Eklingji Lake surrounded by ancient monuments, the cremation domes of previous royalty & stone built walkways. A beautiful lake with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Indian grey hornbills and bee eater birds will often be seen in the trees around the lake.