Shree Shamlaji Vishnu Mandir, also known as Shamlaji Temple, is a revered Hindu temple in Shamlaji in the Aravalli district of Gujarat. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to be over 500 years old. It is considered one of the 108 divya desams (sacred temples) of Lord Vishnu and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.
The temple's architecture blends Hindu and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls and pillars. The temple has three main shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Shiva, and the Sun God. The central shrine is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Shri Shamlaji.
One of the unique features of the temple is its idol of Lord Vishnu, which is made of black stone and is believed to have been self-manifested. The standard is adorned with jewellery and clothes, which are changed daily. The temple also has a sacred pond known as Kunda, which is believed to have medicinal properties.
The temple is particularly famous for its annual fair, held during the Navratri festival in October. The fair is a major event in the region's calendar and is attended by many devotees and tourists. The temple is beautifully decorated during the fair, and several cultural programs and religious ceremonies are held, making it a unique experience for visitors.
Apart from its spiritual significance, Shamlaji Temple is also renowned for its historical significance. The temple has been mentioned in several ancient texts, including the Mahabharata and the Skanda Purana, which testify to its antiquity and importance.
The main attraction of the temple complex is the Shamlaji Temple, which houses the idol of Lord Vishnu in the form of Shri Shamlaji. The temple's architecture blends Hindu and Islamic styles, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls and pillars.
Kunda:
The temple complex has a sacred pond known as Kunda, which is believed to have medicinal properties. Devotees dip in the Kunda as it is supposed to purify the body and soul.
Narsinhji Temple:
The temple complex has a smaller shrine dedicated to Narsinhji, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple's architecture resembles the main temple and has several intricate carvings and sculptures.
Baavan Beedi:
The Baavan Beedi, or the 52-step staircase, is an important feature of the temple complex. The staircase leads to the top of the hill and is believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas during their exile.
The hill on which the temple is located is an ideal spot for trekking. The trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a unique visitor experience.
Annual Fair:
The temple is particularly famous for its annual fair, held during the Navratri festival in October. The temple is beautifully decorated during the fair, and several cultural programs and religious ceremonies are held, making it a unique experience for visitors.