Harshnath Temple, Harsh, Rajasthan

Harshnath Temple, Harsh, Rajasthan

Harshnath Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Harsh Village in Sikar Tehsil of Sikar District, in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. This temple is situated on top of Harsh Parvat. This temple is protected as monuments of national importance by the central Archaeological Survey of India.

History

The Temple was built by the Shaiva ascetic Bhavarakta (also known as Allata), during the reign of Chahamana king Vigraharaja II as per an inscription dated to 973 CE. The temple was later destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1679 CE. Chauhan King Rao Shiv Singh constructed a new temple in 1718 CE adjacent to the old temple using the ruins of the old temple.

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east and situated on top of the Harsh Parvat. The temple and its surrounding shrines are now in ruins. The main temple faces towards east. Nandi, housed in a Nandi Mandapa, can be seen facing the sanctum. The Nandi Mandapa is in ruined state. The pillars and ceilings were lost except the raised platform. The temple consists of Sanctum, Antrala, Ranga Mandapa and an entrance porch.

The Ranga Mandapa is supported by four central pillars and lateral transepts with kakshasana balustrades. The pillars of the Ranga Mandapa are profusely carved. The Sanctum is pancharatha on plan. A sculpture of standing Parvati (labelled Vikata) engaged  in panchagnitapa, flanked by female attendants swaying with lyrical grace can be seen on the western wall inside the sanctum. The Sanctum might have had a superstructure over it. The superstructure was lost completely.

The main temple is noteworthy for the excellent quality of structures and relief carvings despite its dilapidated condition. Idols, reliefs, sculptures and architectural fragments can be seen across the temple premises. The newly built temple is located at a higher level. The temple is built in Maha-Meru style. The temple consists of Sanctum and Mukha Mandapa. The Sanctum is crowned with tall shikara.

Festivals

Shivaratri (Feb – Mar) is the most famous festival celebrated here with much fanfare.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 22 Kms from Sikar, 22 Kms from Sikar Bus Stand, 23 Kms from Sikar Junction Railway Station, 121 Kms from Jaipur and 134 Kms from Jaipur Airport. Sikar is situated on Jaipur to Fatehpur route. The temple is well connected Sikar City.

Location