RANGJI TEMPLE

Devoted to lord Vaikuntha Venkatesh, the new Rangji temple is amongst the most ancient temples in all of Pushkar. The temple is acknowledged for its mesmerizing architectural design including the high rising Gopuram, a composition which is common amongst several South Indian temples followed by an enormous entrance. The temple, through its layout also carries the essence of Mughal architecture as well. Bowing inside the temple, we find it's four corners embedded with Garuda, signifying the presence of Vaikuntha Venkatesh. Among the temple exists sections of other temples, specifically eight in number, that are dedicated to various gods including Goddess Laxmi and Lord Krishna among others.

The presence of a priest at the temple is always mandatory and they act as a caretaker of the new Rangji temple. Visitors can also indulge in prayers and 'puja' sessions at the temple which is carried out every day. The serene atmosphere and delightful architecture of the temple have made it one of the most visited places among tourists in the holy town of Pushkar. The temple is particularly crowded with tourists during the Pushkar fair, a holy celebration that is celebrated every year during the Kartik period. 

All in all, devotees and tourists who find delight in architectural elegance should definitely pay a visit to the charming New Rangji temple. It is family-friendly and takes more than an hour to explore it completely which makes it a promising destination for weekend getaways with family and friends. There are also various eateries and snack shops near the temple place for visitors to enjoy a good meal.

How To Reach

The distance between the Pushkar Bus stand and the Rangji temple is about 650 meters. Visitors and devotees can simply walk to the temple, it should not take more than 15 minutes to reach. 

The entire route is decorated with a number of restaurants and shops and the route is in fact very straightforward and one should not find any difficulty reaching the temple. Tourists can also ask for directions from the localities if they find themselves stuck, they are friendly and very helpful.

Best Time To Visit

The temple is open for visitors throughout the year but the best time to visit this temple is between the months of November and February. The temperature during this time is calm and less humid as compared to other months in the calendar. There are also a number of festivals that are enjoyed throughout the year, in and around the temple which the devotees can be a part of. 

During the day, the best time to visit the temple is early in the morning so that you can relish the early prayers that the saints in the temple conduct. Evening 'puja' is also held at the temple and the architecture looks even more magnificent during sunset and visitors can enjoy taking pictures from outside the temple.

Other Essential Information

- Location: New Rangji Temple, Pushkar, Rajasthan. 

- Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day. Closed between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM (may differ), during which hours

- Distance from Pushkar bus stand: 650 meters

 - Foreigners are not allowed inside the main temple but can visit various other areas of the temple. 

- There is a museum inside the temples. To visit the place one will need to buy a ticket which charges a minimal INR 5.  

History of Rangji Temple

Built-in the year 1823, the New Rangji Temple is dedicated to Vaikuntha Venkatesh who was an embodiment of Lord Vishnu. It was Seth Puran Mal Ganeriwal who constructed the temple in an ancient South Indian style architecture with a hint of Mughal design.

Apart from Lord Vishnu, the temple was also dedicated to a number of other gods including Lord Krishna, Goddess Laxmi, and Shri Ramanujacharya. A museum and a 'Sheesh Mahal' (Glasshouse) was also constructed inside the temple which homes a number of sculptures and idols of various gods including Krishna and Vishu.

Uniqueness and History of Old Rangji Temple

Dedicated to lord Ranga, the Old Rangji temple was built by Seth Puran Mal in the year 1823. The comprehensive carvings and sculpting on the temple present a reflection of both Mugal and Rajput architecture. This comes from the fact that the creator of the temple was from Hyderabad, giving the Mughal touch. 

The temple holds a number of idols amongst which the most prominent is Vaikuntha Venkatesh's shrine. Amidst the temple, there are 8 more temples which the visitors can visit too. In totality, the Old Rangji temple holds a high value from both a religious and historical perspective. 

The Architecture of Rangji Temple

Built-in the year 1823, the architecture of New Rangji temple resembles a mixture of Rajputana, South Indian, and Mughal design. This is because the person who constructed it was Seth Puran Mal Ganeriwal from Hyderabad and the time period during which it was constructed. The temple has an enormous entrance gate and carvings and sculptures on the exterior of the temple which is quite common in the South Indian temples can also be found.

Furthermore, inside the temple itself, there are 8 more temples dedicated to various gods including Krishan and Laxmi. A distinct feature of the temple is also that the primary idol of the lord is centered in such a way that it's visible from around the temple, no matter where you stand. This kind of design is also very common in the south Indian style of temples. The high rising Gopuram is also an additional detail that makes the temple stand off from all the other temples in the town.

Places to Stay near Rangji Temple 

1. Rajguru Guest House - One of the closest places to stay near the temple, the Rajguru guest house is fitted with a ton of amenities including wifi, parking, and a garden. The antique style design and a calm environment of the place makes it a primary destination for a peaceful stay with family and friends. 

2. Elephant Pushkar - Top notch hospitality and delightful accommodation options, the place comes with a number of amenities including gym, restaurants and a business center. The beds provided are large and can comfortably accommodate a small group of families with kids. Shuttle service is also available from here to the airport. 

3. Tulsi Hotel - Decorated with lush green plants and flowers, the Tulsi hotel provides a more contemporary style of accommodation. It comes with luxuries like free parking, wifi, a grand terrace, and airport pickup too. The hotel also offers a picturesque view of the beautiful city from the terrace. Rooms are comfortable, large and can adjust up to 3 members per room.  

4. The Hive Pushkar - With a dedicated play area and a pool, The Hive is definitely one of the most elegant properties at Pushkar. The place, although a bit modish, comes with a number of amenities including free wifi and parking, terrace and more. The food here is also much enjoyed by visitors. 

Places to Eat near New Rangji Temple

1. Cafe Lake View: Indulge in a delicious lunch with the added view of the bewitching Pushkar Lake. Serving an array of vegetarian options, the Lake View cafe is primarily known for its snacks including chats, fries, lassis and more. The best time to visit the place is in the morning for an appetizing breakfast. 

2. The Laughing Buddha Vegan Cafe Pushkar: The cafe is famous among tourists for its delicious Indian and Continental cuisines. The balcony seats at the cafe also deliver a gripping view of the city and its temples. 

3. Raju Terrace Garden Restaurant:  Enjoy a delicious meal amidst the sweet smell of delightful flowers and a view of the lake. The best time to visit the place is after the evening when the lake and the city lights from the terrace of the restaurant look even more alluring.

4. Honey Dew Café & Restaurant: Pocket-friendly and delicious the Honey Dew Cafe & restaurant delivers some of the best vegetarian Italian and Indian food in Pushkar. The coffee and tea here are also very much enjoyed by visitors and tourists on the go.

Tips before visiting Rangji Temple

1. Wear proper and preferable traditional clothes. Pushkar is occupied with more than 400 temples and correct attire should be worn. 

2. Shoes are necessary. There is a lot to explore in the town, most of which will be on foot. Shoes here can be your best friend. 

3. Carry cash as many shops and restaurants here do not use digital payment methods or card systems. 

4. Carry water and always be hydrated especially if you are visiting the temple in the summer season.