About Bisaldeo Temple
The Bisaldeo Temple is a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Gokarneshvara, an aspect of Lord Shiva. Located beside the Bisalpur Dam on the Banas River in Tonk district, Rajasthan, it was commissioned by Chahamana ruler Vigraharaja IV (also known as Bisal Deo) between 1150-1164 CE. This Monument of National Importance features distinctive Indo-Aryan architecture with a pancharatha sanctum, hemispherical dome supported by eight carved pillars, and intricate floral decorations.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a well-preserved 12th-century temple structure featuring a pancharatha sanctum, square mandapa with a hemispherical dome, and eight tall pillars adorned with floral festoons, chain-and-bell patterns, and circular medallions. The temple enshrines a linga in its sanctum. The site offers scenic views of the Bisalpur Dam reservoir, though the courtyard may be partially submerged during high water levels. The temple showcases ancient inscriptions dating from AD 1154-65.
Key highlights
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12th-century temple commissioned by Chahamana ruler Vigraharaja IV (1150-1164 CE)
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Pancharatha sanctum with hemispherical dome supported by eight carved pillars
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Intricate floral festoon, chain-and-bell, and medallion carvings on pillars
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Ancient inscriptions from AD 1154-65 mentioning Prithviraja III
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Scenic location beside Bisalpur Dam on the Banas River
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Monument of National Importance under Archaeological Survey of India protection
History of Bisaldeo Temple
Commissioned by Chahamana ruler Vigraharaja IV (also known as Bisal Deo or Visala) who ruled circa 1150-1164 CE. The town of Bisalpur (formerly Vigrahapura) was founded by this ruler. The temple contains important inscriptions from AD 1154-65 that mention the Chahamana chief Prithviraja III. It is a protected Monument of National Importance under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI monument number N-RJ-102).
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Gokarneshvara, an aspect of Lord Shiva, the temple holds religious importance for devotees. The temple represents significant examples of 12th-century Indo-Aryan temple architecture in Rajasthan. Local tradition associates the site with the Ramayana period, suggesting Ravana meditated here to impress Lord Shiva.