About Harshnath Temple
The Harshnath Temple stands on top of Harsha hill, a prominent ridge of the Aravallis about 14 km from Sikar in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Here Lord Shiva was worshipped as Harsha, "the joyful one", the guardian deity of the mountain. The old temple and the shrines around it are now largely in ruins and protected as a monument of national importance, while a later temple beside them continues in worship. The hilltop gives sweeping views over the Shekhawati plains.
An inscription found at the site, dated 973 CE, records that the temple was built by the Pashupata Shaiva ascetic Allata, also called Bhavarakta, using pious donations, and that it was completed around 956 CE. The Chahamana (Chauhan) rulers of the region honoured Shiva as Harsha as their family deity and were major donors, and the inscription also mentions gifts from ordinary people, such as salt merchants of Shakambhari. It describes the hill as a second Kailasa on earth. After Allata's death, his pupil continued to improve the complex with a courtyard, garden and water facilities. In 1718 a new temple was built beside the ruined one, partly re-using its stones, and this is where worship takes place today.
The ruined main temple faced east and was built in the early Nagara style of western India. Finely carved pillars, doorframes and sculpture fragments lie around the site, and on an inner wall a figure of the goddess Parvati performing austerities can still be seen. Many sculptures from Harshnath are now kept in museums, including the government museum at Sikar. A road climbs the hill, and the breezy summit, dotted with modern wind turbines, makes the visit memorable.
Harshnath Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from about sunrise to sunset. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning puja (newer temple) | Morning (approx.) |
| Evening aarti (newer temple) | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Harshnath Temple
By air
Jaipur International Airport is about 125 km away.
By train
Sikar Junction is about 15 km away.
By road
From Sikar, take the road towards Harsh village and up the hill. Taxis are the most convenient option; the road up is winding.
Festivals at Harshnath Temple
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- Shravan MondaysJul/Aug
- Kartika PurnimaOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest clothing is recommended; wear comfortable shoes and a hat for the exposed hilltop.
- Entry
- Free; it is an ASI-protected site.
- Go in the morning or late afternoon; there is little shade at the top.
- Carry water and snacks, as facilities on the hill are limited.
- Do not climb on or remove any carved stones from the ruins.
- Visit the Sikar museum to see sculptures from the site.
- The hilltop can be windy; hold on to hats and loose items.
Places to visit near Harshnath Temple
- Sikar townDistrict town with painted havelis and a museum, about 14 km away
- Jeen Mata TempleAncient goddess temple in the Aravallis, about 30 km away by road
- Khatu Shyam Ji TempleMajor Krishna (Barbarika) shrine, about 55 km away
- LaxmangarhShekhawati town with a fort and havelis, about 35 km away
Frequently asked questions
When was the Harshnath Temple built?
It was completed in the 10th century, around 956 CE, according to an inscription of 973 CE found at the site.
Who built the Harshnath Temple?
The Pashupata ascetic Allata (Bhavarakta), with support from the Chahamana rulers and local donors.
Is worship still held at Harshnath?
Yes, in the newer temple built beside the ruins in 1718; the old temple is a protected ruin.
How far is Harshnath from Sikar?
About 14 km by road, with the final stretch climbing the hill.
What is the aarti time at Harshnath Temple?
Morning puja (newer temple): Morning (approx.); Evening aarti (newer temple): Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
What are the Harshnath Temple timings?
Usually open from about sunrise to sunset. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Harshnath Temple?
Modest clothing is recommended; wear comfortable shoes and a hat for the exposed hilltop.
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