Travel Guide to Khatu Shyam Temple
Every day, hundreds of devotees head to the quiet and modest village of Khatu, 50 km from the city of Sikar in Rajasthan to a temple dedicated to Khatu Shyam. And the history of this temple and its deity comes from the legend of MahabharatBarbarika, a legendary warrior with unparalleled skills, swore to fight for the weaker side in the Mahabharata war. To prevent a devastating outcome, Lord Krishna He asked for a sacrifice and Barbarika willingly offered his head. In gratitude, Krishna promised Barbarika eternal worship as Shyam Ji in Kali Yuga.
Centuries later, in the village of Khatu in Rajasthan, a cow spontaneously began producing milk on a buried object. After excavation, the head of Barbarika was discovered. Soon a temple was built to house this relic, and Khatu Shyam ji became the “Kuldevata” of the village. Today, his temple, built in white marble and adorned with intricate carvings, attracts countless devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Barbarika.
After participating in the aartis performed throughout the day and receiving the blessings of Lord Barbarika, you can explore the temple complex and learn more about the history of Mahabharat.
What to explore in Sikar
Shyam Kund
Located near the Khatu Shyam TempleThis pond is said to be the place from where Khatu Shyam’s head was recovered. Locals believe that taking a dip in this pond cures devotees of their ailments and gives them good health. In fact, bathing in the Shyam Kund during the Phalguna Mela Festival, held every year, is considered very auspicious.
Khatu Fort
Just a stone’s throw from the temple, Khatu Fort, a 17th-century hilltop citadel, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Inside its walls, you’ll discover ancient palaces and ruined temples.
Laxmangarh Fort
Built by the King of Sikar, Laxman Singh, this hill fort is a 19th-century masterpiece that offers panoramic views of the landscape. It was once a stronghold of the rulers of Sikar, but the fortunes of the fort changed with the merger of the princely states into the Indian Union. Financial constraints forced the royal family to sell the fort in the 1960s. Today, the fort, owned by the Jhunjhunwala family, features 13 spacious rooms, a grand dining hall, and a central courtyard, all adorned with the opulence of a bygone era. Though no longer open to the public, a small temple inside the fort is open to travelers.
Ramgarh Shekhawati
If you are in Sikar, you cannot leave without taking a day trip to Ramgarh Shekhawati, a historic town famous for its exquisite havelis adorned with intricate frescoes. Often referred to as the “Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan,” this town offers an insight into the region’s rich artistic heritage. Here, magnificent havelis such as Ruia Haveli, Poddar Haveli, and Prahladka Haveli welcome hundreds of travelers and display stunning frescoes depicting mythological stories, royal processions, and daily life.
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