Harshat Mata Temple Abhaneri
An 8th-9th century architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Harshat Mata, known for its intricate sculptures and spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Harshat Mata Temple Abhaneri
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8th-9th century architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Harshat Mata, known for its intricate sculptures and spiritual ambiance.
"The temple's architecture and sculptures are super impressive, offering a quiet and beautiful spiritual experience."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings; they tell stories of ancient society. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking around the temple complex and stepwell. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Sculptures
Temple walls and niches
Marvel at the detailed carvings reflecting 8th-9th century Gurjara-Pratihara artistry.
Goddess Harshat Mata Shrine
Sanctum
Experience the spiritual ambiance of the shrine dedicated to the goddess of joy and happiness.
Architectural Grandeur
Temple platform and mandapa
Admire the Mahameru style architecture, including the pancharatha plan and pillared hall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Combine with Chand Baori
Respectful Attire & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings; they tell stories of ancient society. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking around the temple complex and stepwell. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Rajasthan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry water. :droplet:
🙏 Dress Modestly
It's a religious site, so cover shoulders and knees. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate carvings; they tell stories of ancient society. :camerawithflash:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking around the temple complex and stepwell. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Rajasthan can get very hot, especially during midday. Carry water. :droplet:
🙏 Dress Modestly
It's a religious site, so cover shoulders and knees. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Harshat Mata Temple for its stunning ancient architecture and intricate sculptures, offering a spiritual and historical experience. Its close proximity to Chand Baori makes it a convenient and worthwhile addition to any Abhaneri itinerary. While partially in ruins, its preserved artistry and serene ambiance are highly appreciated.
"The Harshad Mata Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located just opposite to the famous Chand Baori stepwell in Rajasthan. It' approximately 25 kms from pupular Mehandipur Balaji temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Harshat Mata, believed to be the goddess of joy and happiness.
Built during the 8th-9th century by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. Plenty of parking available."
Sudhakar Kalwapalli
"Spiritual experience of Harshita Mata Mandir with indo greek mythology and sculpture worth visiting and going around the platform"
Raj Singh Taxak
"The Harshad Mata Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in Abhaneri, Rajasthan, near the famous Chand Baori stepwell in the Dausa district. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Harshat Mata, believed to be the goddess of joy and happiness.
Built during the 8th-9th century by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty.
Showcases stunning Rajasthani architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Though partially in ruins, it remains an important religious and historical site.
The temple is closely associated with the Chand Baori, one of India’s deepest stepwells.
A major festival and fair is held here annually, attracting devotees and tourists.
This temple stands as a significant cultural and historical landmark, reflecting the rich heritage of Rajasthan."
DJ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Abhaneri, Rajasthan, directly opposite the Chand Baori stepwell. It's about 95 km from Jaipur and 25 km from the Mehandipur Balaji temple. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Abhaneri from nearby cities like Jaipur or Dausa. Ample parking is available at the site.
While buses do run to Abhaneri, they might not be very frequent. Hiring a private taxi or a car is often the most convenient way to reach the temple and stepwell, especially if you're coming from Jaipur.
They are literally across the road from each other, so you can just walk. It's incredibly convenient to visit both back-to-back.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Harshat Mata Temple is an ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) protected monument. While entry to the temple complex itself is generally free, there might be a nominal fee for photography or specific areas. It's always good to check on-site for any current regulations.
As an ASI protected monument, the temple is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's advisable to confirm the exact timings locally or check with the ASI website for any specific holiday closures or changes.
Yes, there is usually a small entry fee for Chand Baori stepwell. The fee is nominal and helps in the upkeep of this historical site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple is known for its ancient architecture, intricate sculptures, and the shrine of Goddess Harshat Mata. Though partially in ruins, its historical and spiritual significance is immense. The detailed carvings offer a glimpse into ancient society.
You can explore the temple thoroughly in about 30-60 minutes. However, if you plan to visit Chand Baori as well, allocate at least 2-3 hours for the combined experience.
The temple is generally less crowded than Chand Baori, especially during off-peak hours. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
Dedicated to Goddess Harshat Mata, the goddess of joy and happiness, the temple is an 8th-9th century monument built by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. It's a significant cultural and historical landmark reflecting Rajasthan's rich heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the temple complex, but there might be restrictions inside the inner sanctum. Sometimes, a small fee is charged for camera usage. It's best to check on-site for specific rules.
The intricately carved walls, the architectural details of the mandapa, and the overall structure of the temple offer great photographic opportunities. The contrast with the blue sky can also be striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since the temple is right next to the Chand Baori stepwell, you can easily combine the visit. The sheer scale of the stepwell is often fascinating for children. Keep a close eye on them near the stepwell's edges for safety. The open spaces around the temple complex also provide some room for kids to move around, making it a manageable outing for families.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the temple itself is a subject, don't forget to capture its context. The proximity to Chand Baori provides opportunities for contrasting shots – the verticality of the stepwell against the more spread-out temple complex. Be mindful of any photography restrictions within the inner sanctum and always respect the sanctity of the place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Architecture
Originally, the cardinal niches depicted deities like Vishnu (Vasudeva), Balrama (Sanakarshana), and Pradyumna, suggesting the temple was initially dedicated to Lord Vishnu. However, it now enshrines an image of Goddess Harshat Mata, locally revered as the goddess of happiness. Despite being partially in ruins, the temple's intricate carvings and sculptures remain remarkably preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the society and artistic traditions of the era.
This temple stands as a significant cultural and historical landmark, closely associated with the nearby Chand Baori stepwell, one of India's deepest and most impressive stepwells. The combined presence of these two ancient marvels makes Abhaneri a crucial site for understanding Rajasthan's rich heritage.
Spiritual Significance
While the temple's original dedication might have been to Lord Vishnu, its current form and local reverence center around Harshat Mata. The presence of the Devi's image in the sanctum draws pilgrims and visitors alike. A major annual festival and fair held at the temple attracts a significant number of devotees, further highlighting its importance in the local religious calendar.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit