How to Reach Eklingji Temple from Udaipur – Travel Guide
Learn how to reach Eklingji Temple from Udaipur by train, bus, car, or taxi with practical tips on travel time, routes, and local transport options.
Eklingji Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located near Udaipur in Rajasthan. It is about 22 kilometers north of Udaipur city, making it a popular day-trip destination for visitors and locals alike. This temple is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Udaipur to Eklingji Temple. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you prefer a comfortable taxi ride or a budget-friendly bus trip, this guide covers it all.
Getting from Udaipur to Eklingji Temple – Main Options
Car / Self-Drive
Driving from Udaipur to Eklingji Temple is the most flexible and comfortable option. It allows you to explore at your own pace and enjoy the scenic route along NH48.
The distance between Udaipur city center and Eklingji Temple is approximately 22 km, which takes around 40 to 50 minutes by car depending on traffic conditions.
You can drive via NH48, a well-maintained highway with clear signboards leading directly to Eklingji. The route passes through small villages and offers some roadside eateries.
Toll charges are minimal on this route, but keep some cash handy for toll plazas near Udaipur outskirts.
Self-drive cars or rental vehicles are easily available in Udaipur, with daily rental rates ranging from ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on the car type.
Parking is available near the temple complex, but it can get crowded during weekends and festivals, so arriving early is advisable.
Taxi / Cab
Hiring a taxi or app-based cab like Ola or Uber is a popular choice for tourists who want a hassle-free trip without driving themselves.
Ola and Uber operate in Udaipur and offer rides to Eklingji Temple with fares typically between ₹400 and ₹600 one way, depending on the vehicle type and time of day.
Taxi drivers usually wait for you at the temple, so you can explore without worrying about return transport. Agree on the fare beforehand if booking offline.
The journey time is about 40 to 50 minutes, but traffic congestion near Udaipur city can increase travel time during peak hours.
Booking a taxi early in the morning helps avoid rush hour and ensures a comfortable visit before the temple gets crowded.
Some local taxi operators also offer half-day or full-day packages including Eklingji and other nearby attractions like Nagda and Haldighati.
Bus
Public buses are the most economical way to reach Eklingji Temple, though they are less frequent and less comfortable than private transport.
Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) runs buses from Udaipur Bus Depot to Eklingji village, but direct buses to the temple are limited.
You may need to take a bus towards Mavli or Nagda and get down near Eklingji, then walk or take an auto-rickshaw for the last 2-3 km.
Bus fares range from ₹20 to ₹50, making it very budget-friendly, but buses can be crowded especially during festivals or weekends.
Bus timings are mostly in the morning and early afternoon; evening services are rare, so plan your return accordingly.
Carry water and snacks, as there are limited food options on the bus and near the temple area.
Train
There is no direct train service from Udaipur to Eklingji Temple as the temple is not connected by rail. However, you can use trains for part of the journey combined with road transport.
Udaipur City Railway Station is the main rail hub, well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
The nearest railway station to Eklingji is Mavli Junction, about 12 km away, but trains from Udaipur to Mavli are infrequent and not practical for temple visits.
If you choose to travel by train, you will still need a taxi or bus from Mavli to Eklingji, which takes around 30 minutes.
This option is less convenient and time-consuming compared to direct road travel, so it is not recommended for first-time visitors.
Train fares between Udaipur and Mavli are low, but the combined travel time and transfers make it less efficient.
Step-by-Step Travel Plan
This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers visiting Eklingji Temple from Udaipur. It focuses on ease and comfort while keeping costs reasonable.
- Step 1:
Decide your mode of transport based on budget and convenience. For most, hiring a taxi or self-driving is best for flexibility and time-saving.
- Step 2:
If taking a taxi or cab, book your ride early in the morning via Ola or Uber apps to avoid peak traffic and secure a fair price.
- Step 3:
Start your journey from Udaipur city center, preferably from a well-known landmark like Udaipur City Bus Stand or railway station for easy navigation.
- Step 4:
Follow NH48 north towards Eklingji; keep your phone GPS on for real-time traffic updates and route guidance.
- Step 5:
Upon arrival, park your vehicle or ask your driver to wait. Carry some cash for temple donations and small purchases as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.
- Step 6:
After your visit, return to Udaipur using the same route. If using public transport, check bus schedules in advance to avoid long waits.
Practical Travel Tips
Carry bottled water and light snacks, as food options near Eklingji Temple are limited and may not suit all tastes.
Wear comfortable footwear since you will walk around the temple complex and possibly on uneven paths.
Book taxis through trusted apps or authorized operators to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.
Be cautious of local guides offering unsolicited services; agree on fees beforehand if you choose to hire one.
During monsoon season, roads can be slippery and muddy near the temple, so check weather forecasts and travel carefully.
Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large bags, as the temple area can get crowded, especially during festivals.
Best Time & Travel Conditions
The best time to visit Eklingji Temple is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and temple visits comfortable. Summers can be very hot, and monsoon rains may cause road delays.
Festival periods like Maha Shivratri attract large crowds to the temple, which can affect travel times and accommodation availability. Planning your visit on weekdays or early mornings helps avoid crowds.
Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of July and August due to heavy rains and possible roadblocks.
Winter mornings can have fog near Udaipur, so start your journey after sunrise for better visibility.
Festival days, especially Maha Shivratri, see heavy traffic and long queues; plan extra time if visiting then.
Depart early in the day to enjoy a peaceful visit and return before evening when public transport options reduce.
Arrival at Eklingji Temple & What to Expect
When you arrive at Eklingji Temple, you will find a well-maintained complex with ample parking and clean surroundings. The temple is active with daily rituals and attracts devotees throughout the year.
Local transport options from the temple are limited. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs can be arranged in advance for your return trip. Auto-rickshaws are rare here, so plan accordingly. Nearby villages have small shops and eateries for refreshments.
Accommodation options near Eklingji are minimal, so most visitors stay in Udaipur city and make a day trip. Popular areas to stay in Udaipur include the city center near Lake Pichola or the railway station for easy access to transport.
Conclusion
Traveling from Udaipur to Eklingji Temple is straightforward and can be tailored to your preferences and budget. The most efficient and comfortable way is by taxi or self-drive car via NH48, which offers flexibility and quick travel. Public buses are available but less convenient for tourists.
Plan your trip by booking transport in advance, starting early to avoid traffic and crowds, and carrying essentials like water and cash. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy a spiritual visit to Eklingji Temple and experience the rich culture and history of the region.