About Sanwariya Seth Temple
The Sanwariya Seth Temple, also called Shri Sanwaliya Ji, is at Mandaphiya in Chittorgarh district of southern Rajasthan, near the highway between Chittorgarh and Udaipur. The deity is Krishna in his dark, beautiful form, lovingly called Sanwaliya Seth, the dark-complexioned merchant. Mandaphiya is now known as Shri Sanwaliya Dham, and for Vaishnava devotees of the region it ranks just behind the Shrinathji temple at Nathdwara. Many traders and business families regard Sanwaliya Seth as a partner in their work, and the temple is known for the very large offerings made by devotees who believe their wishes have been fulfilled.
According to local tradition, in 1840 a milkman named Bholaram Gurjar dreamt of three idols of Krishna buried at Chapar, in the Bhadsoda-Bagund area. When the spot was dug, three idols were found. Another version says the idols came to light when workers cut through a tree root during road building, and that they had been hidden long ago to protect them from invaders. One idol was taken to Mandaphiya, one to Bhadsoda, and one stayed at Chapar where it was found, so three Sanwaliya temples stand within a few kilometres of each other. The Mandaphiya shrine became the principal one, and it is now run by a trust registered in 1986.
The temple at Mandaphiya has grown into a large complex built to manage heavy crowds. The dark image of Krishna is richly dressed and decorated, and the atmosphere is lively with bhajans and the ringing of bells. Visitors often go on to see the two sister shrines at Bhadsoda and Chapar, which complete the circuit of the three idols. The temple is busiest on the monthly Amavasya and during the Jaljhulni Ekadashi fair, when processions and large gatherings fill the town. Through the year the temple also celebrates Holi with Phooldol, both Navratris, Ram Navami, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Diwali followed by Annakut.
Sanwariya Seth Temple timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning to late evening, with a break in the afternoon. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Mangala aarti | Early morning (approx.) |
| Sandhya aarti | At sunset |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Sanwariya Seth Temple
By air
Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur, is the nearest airport.
By train
Chittorgarh Junction is the nearest major railway station, about 40 km away.
By road
The temple is near the Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway, about 40 km from Chittorgarh; buses and taxis run from Chittorgarh and Udaipur.
Festivals at Sanwariya Seth Temple
- Jaljhulni Ekadashi fairAug/Sep
- JanmashtamiAug/Sep
- Holi and PhooldolMar
- Diwali and AnnakutOct/Nov
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing is advised.
- Entry
- Free.
- Amavasya days and the Jaljhulni Ekadashi fair draw very large crowds; go early.
- Visit the sister shrines at Bhadsoda and Chapar to complete the three-idol circuit.
- Chittorgarh Fort makes a good combination for the same trip.
- Carry water in summer, when the region gets very hot.
Places to visit near Sanwariya Seth Temple
- Bhadsoda Sanwaliya Ji TempleSister shrine of one of the three idols, within about 5 km
- Chapar (Bagund) Sanwaliya Ji TempleShrine where the idols were found, within about 5 km
- Chittorgarh FortGreat hill fort of Mewar, about 40 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is Sanwariya Seth called 'Seth'?
Devotees, especially traders, regard Krishna here as a merchant-partner who blesses their business, and they make offerings when wishes come true.
Where is Sanwariya Seth Temple?
It is at Mandaphiya in Chittorgarh district, Rajasthan, near the Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway, about 40 km from Chittorgarh.
What is the story of the Sanwaliya idols?
Tradition says that in 1840 three Krishna idols were found at Chapar after a dream; they were installed at Mandaphiya, Bhadsoda and Chapar.
What is the biggest festival at Sanwariya Seth?
The Jaljhulni Ekadashi fair in the month of Bhadrapad (Aug/Sep) is the largest event.
What is the aarti time at Sanwariya Seth Temple?
Mangala aarti: Early morning (approx.); Sandhya aarti: At sunset. Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
What are the Sanwariya Seth Temple timings?
Usually open from early morning to late evening, with a break in the afternoon. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Is there a dress code at Sanwariya Seth Temple?
Modest traditional clothing is advised.
How to reach Sanwariya Seth Temple?
By air: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur, is the nearest airport. By train: Chittorgarh Junction is the nearest major railway station, about 40 km away. By road: The temple is near the Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway, about 40 km from Chittorgarh; buses and taxis run from Chittorgarh and Udaipur.
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