Harshnath Temple Harsh, Sikar, Rajasthan

Harshnath Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Sikar district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is situated 14 km away from the district headquarters Sikar.

According to an inscription dated 973 AD, this Shiva temple was built by Shiva ascetic Bhavarakta during the reign of Chahamana king Vigraharaja I. It is surrounded by many temples which lie in ruins.

In 1718, Rao Shiv Singh built a new temple adjacent to the old temple using the ruins of the old temple.

A similar type of temple is also located in Harsh village, Bilara Harsh Deval temple, district Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The Harsha Deval temple at Bilara was also built in the 10th century.

Situated in the lap of Aravali, there is a wonderful temple which is again dedicated to the great Lord Shiva and his incarnations. The complex surrounding the temple is more than 200 years old and was first attacked by the cruel Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. After the attack the Harshnath temple was completely destroyed and still stands as it was left after the brutal attack.

The after-effects of the invasion took a toll on the structure of the temple, from which it never recovered. However, the only thing that the invasion could not destroy was the awe-inspiring architecture that still remains true to its beauty. As you enter the complex, the first thing that is seen is Nandi, the bull that used to carry Lord Shiva. Further inside, you will see the idol of Goddess Parvati (wife of Lord Shiva) along with her attendants. The intricate details shown on the pillars, various forms of sculptures of other Hindu gods and goddesses make the architecture of the temple breathtaking.

Inside the temple, you can see the main mandapa (a place where all the major and important rituals took place) and Lord Shiva is seen resting in his place like a hero. The paintings depict a beautiful poem explaining the activities of Goddess Parvati and her servants. The temple is built towards the east from where the Sun God rises every morning.

Harshnath Temple is famous for the gathering of hundreds of devotees every year to celebrate Shivratri, the celebration of the marriage ceremony of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Every year many rituals and aartis take place and people worship the god.

This festival is celebrated every year in the month of February and March.

If you are around Sikar you must visit this temple