Bhuvaneswari Temple, Udaipur, Udaipur: History and respectful visitor guide

History and context

The story behind Bhuvaneswari Temple, Udaipur

The temple is attributed to Maharaja Govinda Manikya and was built in the 17th century, with sources giving dates in the 1660s to 1670s. It is raised on a three-foot platform and follows the Bengali charchala form. Tagore's plays Rajarshi and Bisarjan refer to it.

Useful facts

Bhuvaneswari Temple, Udaipur facts at a glance

Location

Gomati river bank, Udaipur

Faith

Hindu

Deity

Goddess Bhuvaneswari

Built

17th century, by Govinda Manikya

Known for

Tagore's Rajarshi and Bisarjan

Why it matters

Why Bhuvaneswari Temple, Udaipur is worth your time

Built under Maharaja Govinda Manikya, the temple belongs to a time when Udaipur, then called Rangamati, was the royal seat. It is reckoned among the oldest temples in the state, and the palace ruins beside it are the best remnant of that era.

The literary link to Tagore, who wrote Rajarshi and Bisarjan around the story of a king who banned sacrifice, gives the site a place in wider Bengali culture that goes beyond Tripura.

Highlights

What not to miss

1. 01

   Bengali-style temple

   A chaar-chala temple on a low platform.

2. 02

   Old palace ruins

   The 17th-century palace remains lie next door.

3. 03

   Tagore connection

   The site appears in Tagore's plays.

Plan your visit

How to experience it

The temple sits on the northern bank of the Gomati, next to the ruins of the 17th-century palace of the Manikya kings. Approach it in the morning, when the river is calm. Visitors cross the river to reach it and walk across a short stretch of ground to the temple.

The building stands on a low platform, about three feet high, and is built in the chaar-chala style of Bengal, with stupas decorated with floral motifs. The ruined palace walls beside it hint at the scale of the old capital.

Tagore's plays Rajarshi and Bisarjan are set around this temple, so reading a summary beforehand adds to the visit. Keep your voice low and photograph politely.

Know before you go

Timing, access and comfort

Area

Gomati river bank, eastern edge of Udaipur

Time needed

45 to 60 minutes

Best time

Morning or late afternoon

Walking level

Easy

Senior comfort

A small, mostly level site on a low platform; access involves crossing the river by road bridge or boat and walking short distances over uneven ground. Few benches.

Tickets and access

Entry details are not published; it is a temple and heritage site, so dress modestly and confirm opening times locally.

Plan it with

FAQs