Copyright timesnownews
Every year, on the Devuthani Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik (the Hindu lunar month), the famous Khatu Shyam temple, located 50 kms from Rajasthan's Sikar, bursts into celebration as devotees mark what is popularly observed as Baba Shyam’s “birthday”. During this occasion, a two-day fair of Shyam Janmotsav takes over the entire Khatu city. As per reports, in view of the large crowds, the entire area has been declared a no-vehicle zone. VIP darshans for Khatu Shyam temple have also been completely restricted during this period. If you're also in Khatu to celebrate Khatu Shyam Ji's birthday, which is being celebrated on November 1, 2025, here's all you need to know about the deity and what other landmarks you can see in the city. Who Is Khatu Shyam? The story of Khatu Shyam temple begins in Mahabharat. Barbarika, a legendary warrior vowed to fight for the weaker side in the Mahabharata war. To prevent a devastating outcome, Lord Krishna requested a sacrifice, and Barbarika willingly offered his head. In gratitude, Krishna promised Barbarika eternal worship as Shyam Ji in the Kali Yuga. Centuries later, in the Rajasthan village of Khatu, a cow began producing milk spontaneously above a buried object. Upon excavation, the head of Barbarika was discovered. And a temple was soon built to house this relic, with Khatu Shyam ji becoming the ‘Kuldevata’ of the village. Today, his temple, built in white marble and adorned with intricate carvings, draws countless devotees seeking blessings from Lord Barbarika. How To Reach Khatu Shyam TempleBy Air: The closest airport is Jaipur International Airport (80–90 km from Khatu) By Train: The nearest station is Ringas Junction (RGS), about 17 km from Khatu By Road: From Jaipur by car/bus (approx 2 hrs) via the Jaipur–Sikar route. From Delhi around 270 km. What To See In SikarShyam Kund Located near the Khatu Shyam temple, this pond is said to be the place from where the head of Khatu Shyam was retrieved. Locals believe that taking a dip in this pond cures devotees from their ailments and brings them good health. In fact, bathing at the Shyam Kund during the Phalguna Mela Festival, which is held every year, is considered to be very auspicious. Khatu Fort Just a stone's throw away from the temple, Khatu Fort, a 17th-century citadel perched atop a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Within its fortified walls, you'll discover old dilapidated palaces and temples. Ramgarh Shekhawati If you’re in Sikar, you can’t leave without making a day trip to Ramgarh Shekhawati, a heritage town renowned for its exquisite havelis adorned with intricate frescoes. Often referred to as the "Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan," this town offers a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the region. Here, magnificent havelis like Ruia's Haveli, Poddar's Haveli, and Prahladka's Haveli, see hundreds of travellers, and showcase stunning frescoes depicting mythological stories, royal processions, and everyday life. Laxmangarh Fort Built by the King of Sikar, Laxman Singh, this hill fort is a 19-th century masterpiece, offering panoramic views of the landscape. Once a stronghold of the Sikar rulers, the fort's fortunes changed with the merger of princely states into the Indian Union. Economic constraints forced the royal family to sell the fort in the 1960s. While it is no longer open to the public, a small temple inside the fort is open to travellers. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
