Sahastra Bahu Temple: An Architectural Marvel In Udaipur

This unique temple is a rare symbol of harmony between a mother-in-law (saas) and a daughter-in-law (bahu), a relationship often portrayed as challenging in Indian culture. The interesting tale of why it is named the Saas Bahu Temple of Udaipur takes us to its history and stunning architecture. 

History Of Sahastra Bahu Temple 

The King’s wife loved Lord Vishnu very much. Because the King loved his wife, he built this temple so she could pray to Lord Vishnu peacefully.

Later, when the King’s son got married, they built another temple. This new temple was for the son’s wife, who liked to pray to Lord Shiva. So they made a Lord Shiva temple right next to the Vishnu temple. This new temple was for the King’s daughter-in-law.

The first temple they built was for Lord Vishnu. They called it Sahastrabahu Temple. This name means “the one with a thousand arms”, which is another way to describe Lord Vishnu.

At first, people called it Sahastrabahu Temple. But over time, people started calling it “Saas Bahu Temple”. This new name came from the story of why it was built – for the mother-in-law (Saas) and daughter-in-law (Bahu). The Saas temple is the most significant one of the two temples. 

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The Architecture Of Sahastra Bahu Temple 

There’s a fourth door, but it’s in a room and cannot be accessed by people. When you enter, you will see statues of Goddess Saraswati, Lord Bramha, and Lord Vishnu. The temple is beautifully decorated with detailed carvings. Its design is so pretty that will leave you amazed. 

A long time ago, the temple was attacked by invaders, however even today, the architecture still looks amazing. The Sahastra Bahu Temple covers a land of 22 metres wide and 32 metres long.  Both the important temples face east. 

The temple walls have special carvings from the 10th century. The main door is very pretty, with nice designs above it and a fancy arch in the middle.

You can see beautiful statues of Lord Balrama, Parashurama, and Lord Rama on a separate platform. These statues are made very carefully on two levels. They’re arranged so that one row of statues goes around the other, which is clever. Both temples share the same front area.

The Bahu temple has an eight-sided ceiling with beautiful carvings of 8 women figures. Many of the carvings in the temple are based on stories from the Ramayana.

The Sahastra Bahu Temple is listed as one of the most amazing monuments in India by the Archaeological Survey of India. 

Best Time To Visit Sahastra Bahu Temple

Location Of Sahastra Bahu Temple

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How To Reach Sahastra Bahu Temple 

• By Plane

The nearest airport (Maharana Pratap Airport) is about 33 km from the temple. To reach the temple, it is best to take a taxi. 

• By Train

Udaipur train station is 23 km from the temple. By taxi, you can reach the temple in 30 minutes from the station. 

• By Bus Or Car

You can conveniently use buses that run between different states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. And if you’re self-driving, use the appropriate state highway to reach the temple. 

Sahastra Bahu Temple Timings And Entry Fees

Interesting Facts About Sahastra Bahu Temple

1. They show how close the family was.
2. The devotion of women to two different gods Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. 

Places To Visit Near Sahastra Bahu Temple

• Eklingji Temple

It is an old and beautiful Hindu temple in Udaipur, bulity by by Maharana Bappa Rawal for Lord Shiva in 734 AD. It has 108 smaller temples made of marble and sandstone. Located by Indersagar Lake, the temple is just 1.5 km from Sahastra Bahu Temple. 

• Adbhut Ji Temple

It is a Jain temple, 500 metres from Sahastra Bahu Temple built by Rana Kumbha for Jain Saint Shanti Nath. It has a 9-foot tall unusual statue, which is why it’s called “Adbhut”. 

• Old Jain Temple Ruins

Explore the remains of ancient Jain temples here. This place is about 550 metres from Sahastra Bahu Temple. 

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Top Hotels Near Sahastra Bahu Temple

1. YAAN Lake View Private Pool Villa
2. Sarasiruham Resort – Private Pool Villa in Udaipur
3. Seven Stays
4. The Ekling Villa by Ovistays