Madareshwar Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Udaipur is the nearest airport, about 165 km from Banswara town.

Why devotees come here

Madareshwar Temple is a hilltop Shiva shrine on the eastern side of Banswara, Rajasthan. The main shrine sits inside a natural cave, and devotees say the temple is as famous as the Amarnath shrine. The annual Kawad Yatra begins here in Shravan.

Madareshwar is a hilltop Shiva temple, and devotees say it is as famous as the holy shrine of Amarnath. For that reason it draws pilgrims from across India. The main shrine lies inside a natural cave, and several bells hang from the ceiling just above it.

The main shrine holds a huge lingam in the centre, which resembles the face of Shiva. A smaller lingam sits beside it, where devotees offer milk, flowers and other items. The temple is painted in white and orange, colours that show the importance of Hindu dharma. A giant Nandi stands in one outer corner.

Pilgrims begin the Kawad Yatra here in Shravan, the month that falls in July and August. It is believed that walking barefoot seeks the blessings of the yatra. The yatra is considered fulfilled only when pilgrims carry water from River Mahi and offer it at the Shivlinga. Locals believe that performing it correctly may bring good fortune. The cave ceiling is low, so tall visitors need to take care when they step inside.

Festivals

• Shravan (July-August)Kawad Yatra

  Pilgrims start their yatra here by worshipping Shiva, and the yatra ends at Baneshwar Temple.

Tips for your visit

• On Maha Shivaratri, the locals light up and decorate the temple.
• Visitors are encouraged to take the prasad during Maha Shivaratri.
• The hill gives a bird's-eye view of Banswara town, and it is a good spot to watch sunrise and sunset.
• A short nature trail runs around the temple, which families can enjoy.

Questions people ask