The small but famous Garadia Mahadev Temple in Kota, Rajasthan located at an altitude of 500 feet overlooking a gorge through which the Chambal River; the largest tributary of Yamuna River flows. Surrounded by huge cliffs on both sides; the entire area covered under lush green surroundings creates a stunning view, especially around the horseshoe bend.
The location will leave tourists stunned with its sheer beauty. Garadia Mahadev Temple shrine, lies on top of one of the cliffs and is also a major tourist spot. Devotees have to ascend a few steps from the cliff top to reach the temple. Chambal River is known as home to a large number of water animals. Standing near the cliff on a clear sky day, tourists can catch a glimpse of the crocodiles, turtles, etc.
Garadia Mahadev Temple is located near the National Highway 76, while moving on the stretch connecting Chittorgarh with Dabi. The Mahadev or shiva temple can be reached easily. The small shrine is located at an isolated place off the regular tourist hotspots. As such it is a popular picnic destination, for nature lovers who want to spend time in peaceful tranquil surroundings. The breathtaking views of the location is sometimes considered more popular than the Shiva Temple itself. The small temple is located in an area that is part of Mukundra National Park, which is located 50 km from Kota. Tigers are regularly relocated from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve to this area of the national park. As such a lucky few can even get a glimpse of the elusive tiger. Tourists can also visit the national park, to see wild animals, and birds, besides enjoying nature.
The entry ticket is INR 75 for Indians and INR 500 for foreigners. Students can enter paying INR 20 after showing their valid I-card. Entry fees for those coming in cars is INR 200, INR 400 for bus, and INR 30 for 2-wheeler. The temple is open from 7 AM in the morning to 5:30 PM in the evening; after which it is closed due to windy conditions and the presence of wild animals in the area. The temple is open to pilgrims all throughout the year and can be visited all year round. Next, to the small temple is a stream emerging from a hole in stones; with the water coming down slowly. The best time is just after the monsoon when the green foliage is at its maximum and creates a majestic view just before the winter season from September to March.
Tourists and devotees need to take a detour after traveling 25 km southwest from Kota to reach the Garadia Mahadev Temple. The unpaved road left from the highway is about 3 km long. This road leads to the area near the horseshoe bend, and Garadia Mahadev Temple is located on a cliff near the bend. Tourists can reach the temple by hiring a taxi, private, autorickshaw, or bus. There is no entry fee to visit the temple, but the video camera and still camera are both charged INR 50 each. The temple attracts maximum footfalls during festivals, especially during Shivratri. It takes about 1 hour to explore the entire place.
Kota is the 3rd largest city of Rajasthan and is famous since the creation of a separate princely state in 1631, out of Bundi for its painting, palaces, museums, and temples. Nowadays it is well known as a premier coaching center for engineering, medical and administrative services. Kota is well connected to all major cities of India by road and rail. The nearest airport is Jaipur capital of Rajasthan. Some of the best-known places to visit in Kota are Kishore Sagar, Chambal Hanging Bridge, Kota Zoological Park, Ganesh Udhyan, and Lucky Burj.
