EME Temple

Also known as the Dakshinamurty Temple, the EME Temple is a Shiva shrine managed by the Indian Army. The temple boasts of remarkable contemporary architecture featuring aspects of the major religions of India. Covered with aluminium sheets, the geodesic structure of the temple presents a striking sight. Sculpture art dating back to the 7th to 15thcenturies define the beauty of the garden surrounding this temple. A visit to the temple will allow you to appreciate its unique concept.

The EME Temple or “Dakshinamurthy Temple” is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in 1966 and run by Indian Army authorities in the city of Vadodara, in the state of Gujarat, Western India. It is unique in its concept and design and its geodesic structure, covered with aluminium sheets, is well regarded by archaeologists. It was built by the Indian Army Corps of EME. This temple is a major attraction for both tourist and devotees and is one of its kind in the world.

History and Significance :

The former Christian commandant – Brig A.F. Eugene, of the EME School, was the mastermind behind the EME Temple.

The Temple is a symbol of secularism in the country as it displays various features of major religions of India.

1. The Kalasha on the top of the dome represents Hinduism.

2. The dome is built according to Islamic architecture.

3. The tower, beneath which the idol of Lord Dakshinamurthy is situated, represents Christianity.

4. The golden tower top is in accordance with Buddhist principles.

5. The Entrance of the temple depicts Jain religious traditions.

6. The fire in the temple represents Zoroastrianism.

The idol of the main deity faces South – metaphorically representing Lord Dakshinamurthy imparting his teachings to the world. Other notable features include an idol of Lord Ganesha, brought from Mahabalipuram and an arch behind Lord Shiva’s idol, made of pure silver and engraved with the sacred mantra Om Namah Shivaya. The temple is surrounded by statues of over a hundred deities, dating back to 6th century, imitating the Amarnath Temple, one of the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva.

The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM for tourists and devotees. The lush green landscape inside temple is very beautiful and well maintained by Indian Army.

• Location: Fatehgunj
• Timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm; closed on Sundays

How to get there

By Road: Vadodara, 112 km from Ahmedabad and 420 km from Mumbai, is located on National Highway 8. There are various state transport (ST) buses and private luxury coaches from all over Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and Rajasthan. Ahmedabad-Vadodara intercity buses take 2 hours and run every 15 minutes. There are also several private bus companies on or near Station Road. Tickets vary according to the type of bus, but the average rate is Rs 100/- to Ahmedabad and Rs 200/- to Mumbai. You can also rent a car with a driver to explore the city and its surroundings at the Express Hotel. Rates range from Rs. 650/- without air-conditioning to Rs. 2200/- for luxury vehicles, for 8 hrs or 80 km per day.

By Rail: Vadodara, a major railway junction is located on the Western Railway, which connects Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad.

By Air: Vadodara is connected by various domestic airlines to Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Daman, and Pune.