Sanwariya Seth Temple: Rajasthan's Richest and a Hub of Faith
Rajasthan's land of warriors, Chittorgarh, is famous not only for its forts and sacrifices but also for its deep religious beliefs. The biggest center of this faith is the 'Shri Sanwariya Seth Temple'. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple is located in Mandaphia (Chittorgarh) and is called 'Sanwariya Seth' because devotees consider Him their 'Business Partner'.
If you are also planning a visit to Sanwariya Seth and are confused about how to reach there, when to go, and what the arrangements are like, then this article will prove to be a complete guide for you. In this article, we will discuss in detail how you can reach Sanwariya Seth Temple from any corner of India and make your journey pleasant.
History and Religious Significance of Sanwariya Seth Temple
The history of Sanwariya Seth Temple is considered very interesting and miraculous. According to folk tales, in the year 1840, a cowherd named Bholaram Gurjar, a resident of Mandaphia, had a dream that three ancient idols were buried in the Chhapar (field) of Bagund-Bhadsora. When the place was excavated, three extremely beautiful dark-complexioned (Shyam Varna) idols of Lord Krishna emerged from there.
Of these three idols, the largest one was taken to Mandaphia, where the grand Sanwariya Seth Temple stands today. The second idol was installed in Bhadsora, and the third idol was kept where it appeared (which is called the Sanwariya Ji Prakatya Sthal Temple).
Sanwariya Seth is called the 'Seth of Seths' (the ultimate merchant). The most unique thing here is that traders from across the country and the world make Lord Sanwariya Seth a partner in their business. They put a fixed portion of their profit into the temple's donation box. This is why the temple's treasury is always full, and it is counted among the wealthiest temples in Rajasthan.
How to Reach Sanwariya Seth Temple?
Sanwariya Seth Temple is located in Mandaphia village of Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan. This place is situated on the main highway between Udaipur and Chittorgarh, making it quite easy to reach.
1. By Air
If you want to come by air, the nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur (Dabok Airport).
- The distance from Udaipur airport to Sanwariya Seth temple is about 65 to 70 kilometers.
- You can reach the temple directly by hiring a taxi or private vehicle from the airport. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Udaipur airport is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad through regular flights.
2. By Train
Traveling by train is considered the most convenient and economical option. The nearest railway stations to Sanwariya Seth Temple are as follows:
- Chittorgarh Junction: This is about 40 kilometers from the temple. Chittorgarh is connected to major rail routes in India. Direct trains are available from Delhi, Ahmedabad, Kota, and Jaipur.
- Udaipur City Railway Station: This is about 80 kilometers from the temple.
As soon as you exit the railway station, you will easily find private taxis, sharing jeeps, and Rajasthan Roadways buses for Sanwariya Seth (Mandaphia).
3. By Road
Sanwariya Seth Temple is very well connected by road. It is located on the Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway (NH-48).
- From Udaipur: The distance from Udaipur to the temple is about 80 km. You can reach here via the Udaipur-Chittorgarh highway by bus or car.
- From Chittorgarh: The distance from Chittorgarh city to the temple is only 40 km.
- From Bhilwara: Its distance from Bhilwara is about 90 km.
- Private Vehicle: If you are coming by your own car from Delhi or Gujarat, NH-48 is the best route. You can easily reach the temple with the help of signboards and Google Maps along the way.
Temple Darshan Timings and Major Aarti
It is necessary to keep the timings in mind for Sanwariya Seth darshan so that you can benefit from the Aarti. The temple is usually open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, but the doors remain closed for some time in the afternoon.
- Mangala Aarti: 5:30 AM (time to wake up the Lord).
- Shringar Aarti: Between 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
- Rajbhog Aarti: 12:15 PM (after this, the doors are closed for rest).
- Sandhya Aarti: Between 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (this Aarti is the most grand).
- Shayan Aarti: 11:00 PM.
Note: Timings may change on festivals and special occasions (like Ekadashi), so be sure to check local information before going.
Accommodation and Food Arrangements in Sanwariya Seth
Despite Mandaphia being a small village, there are excellent arrangements for devotees to stay.
- Dharamshalas: There are many large dharamshalas operated by the temple trust where rooms are available at very low prices. Options like 'Sanwariya Vishram Grih' and 'Bhakt Niwas' are popular.
- Private Hotels: Many private hotels and guest houses have also opened around the temple, where you can stay according to your convenience and budget.
- Food: 'Prasad Bhojan' (canteen) is arranged by the temple trust at a very nominal fee. Apart from this, there are many restaurants and dhabas outside the temple where you will get pure vegetarian Rajasthani and North Indian food.
Some Important Travel Tips
Keep these things in mind to make your visit to Sanwariya Seth memorable:
- Avoid Crowds: If you want to have a peaceful darshan, avoid going on weekends (Saturday-Sunday) and Ekadashi days, as there is a heavy crowd on these days.
- Jaljhulni Ekadashi: The biggest fair here is held on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of the Bhadrapada month (Jaljhulni Ekadashi). If you want to enjoy the festivities, definitely come during this time.
- Attire: Wear traditional and modest clothes to maintain the dignity of the temple.
- Camera and Mobile: Photography may be prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, so follow the rules.
- Nearby Places: You can also include Chittorgarh Fort, Udaipur city, and Kumbhalgarh in your trip.
Conclusion
Sanwariya Seth Temple is not just a religious site, but a symbol of faith and hope for millions of people. The arrangements here, the carvings of the temple, and the enchanting form of Lord Sanwariya will give you a different experience of peace. Whether you come by rail, air, or road, reaching Sanwariya Seth is very easy.
Next time whenever you plan a trip to Rajasthan, do not forget to visit the court of the 'Seth of Seths' Sanwariya Seth. By His grace, both your journey and business will be auspicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which is the nearest railway station to Sanwariya Seth Temple?
The nearest railway station is Chittorgarh Junction (about 40 km). Apart from this, Udaipur City station is also a good option.
2. Is there a facility for online donation in the temple?
Yes, you can donate online through the official website of Shri Sanwariya Ji Temple Trust and receive a receipt.
3. What is the best time to visit Sanwariya Seth Temple?
The time between October to March is the best because the weather in Rajasthan remains pleasant. From a religious point of view, the time of Jaljhulni Ekadashi is the best.
4. Is parking facility available near the temple?
Yes, a large parking area is available near the temple complex for private and public vehicles.
5. Is there any special facility for the disabled or elderly?
Yes, the temple administration arranges wheelchairs and easy darshan for the elderly and the differently-abled.
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