Kota isn't only known for its havelis and the Chambal riverfront; the Rajasthan city is also home to a clutch of temples whose rituals and legends are hard to find anywhere else in the country. At one shrine an idol is said to be sinking into the ground year by year, while at another devotees write their wishes straight into a register kept at the temple. Here's a look at five such temples that stand out for their distinct identity.
Chandreshal Math: history carved in stone
Built along the banks of the Chandreshal river, the ancient Chandreshal Math is a key part of Kota's spiritual and historical legacy. The entire complex is made of stone and reflects an old architectural style, with ancient shrines, samadhis and finely carved stonework still preserved today. The calm, green surroundings by the river make the site appealing not just to devotees but also to anyone interested in history and heritage.
Kaithoon's Vibhishan temple: worship of Ravana's brother
The Vibhishan temple in Kota's Kaithoon town is rare in its own right, since it is dedicated to Vibhishan, the brother of Ravana. The legends around it trace back to the era of the Ramayana, and locals believe the temple is around 5,000 years old. It is also described as the only Vibhishan temple of its kind in the world. According to belief, the idol installed here sinks a little further into the ground every year. A five-day Vibhishan fair is held here around Holi, drawing large crowds from the surrounding areas.
Rameshwar Mahadev temple: a self-manifested Shivling inside a cave
Nestled among the Aravalli hills, the Rameshwar Mahadev temple is known for its unusual mix of faith and natural beauty. Devotees climb around 108 steps to reach a natural cave near a waterfall, where a self-manifested Shivling is enshrined. Local belief holds that a snake occasionally emerges from a hole in the cave to worship Lord Shiva, and any devotee who happens to witness this is considered extremely fortunate.
Godavari Dham Hanuman temple: an awakened idol on the Chambal
Standing on the banks of the Chambal river, the Godavari Dham Hanuman temple is known for its idol, believed to be spiritually awakened, and for the miracles attributed to it. People troubled by evil-spirit afflictions or mental distress visit the temple hoping for relief. Built in South Indian style, it also draws attention for its distinctive architecture. Special aartis are held every Tuesday and Saturday, when large numbers of devotees gather.
Ganesh Pol temple: wishes written into a register
The Manokamna Siddha Ganesh temple on Kota's Bundi Road, also known as Ganesh Pol temple, is estimated to be between 800 and 900 years old. Its most distinctive feature is the set of registers kept at the site, where devotees write down wishes such as marriage, a job, a new house or business success. Once a wish is fulfilled, the devotee returns to the temple, ticks it off in the same register and offers thanks to Lord Ganesh.
