EME-Temple-in-Vadodara, EME Temple, Vadodara, Gujarat
EME-Temple-in-Vadodara, EME Temple, Vadodara, Gujarat

Introduction & Spiritual Essence

The EME Temple, formally known as the Dakshinamurti Temple, stands as a beacon of spirituality and architectural innovation in Vadodara, Gujarat. Under the administration of the 505 Army Base Workshop of the Indian Army, this temple is unique in its concept, reflecting the secular fabric of the Indian Armed Forces. It is dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurti, a distinct form of Lord Shiva depicted as the supreme teacher (Adi Guru), facing south.

Phalaśruti: Why Visit?

Devotees visit the EME Temple not only for its serene ambiance but also to seek blessings for spiritual knowledge and wisdom. Lord Dakshinamurti is revered as the embodiment of cosmic knowledge who teaches the silent language of silence. According to temple lore, offering prayers here helps in:

  • Dispelling Ignorance: Ideal for students and seekers of truth.
  • Removing Ancestral Karmic Blockages: Through regular Shiva worship.
  • Harmony: The temple promotes religious unity, housing symbols of all major faiths.

Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

Construction and Legacy

Built in 1966, the temple was constructed by the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps of the Indian Army. Unlike ancient stone edifices, this structure reflects the modern industrial capabilities of its creators. The complex houses a vast collection of 106 ancient statues ranging from the 6th to the 16th century, relocated here from the Baroda Museum and other sites to preserve India’s heritage.

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Scriptural Legend: The Guru of the South

The primary deity, Dakshinamurti, is a form of Lord Shiva described in the Suta Samhita and various Agamic texts. Legend holds that Shiva appeared in this form to impart Brahma Vidya (supreme knowledge) to the Saptarishis (seven sages) in Mount Kailash. This aspect of Shiva represents the silent teacher who imparts wisdom without spoken words.

Architectural Marvels

The EME Temple is a masterpiece of Modern Architecture blended with traditional Vastu principles. It breaks away from the conventional Nagara or Dravida styles, utilizing a Geodesic Design.

  • Geodesic Structure: The sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is a dome-like structure covered entirely with aluminium sheets, reflecting the Army’s engineering prowess. The shape provides excellent acoustic properties and durability.
  • Vastu Orientation: The temple faces east, welcoming the rising sun, while the deity faces south, aligning with the southern direction of Lord Dakshinamurti.
  • The Mandapa: The assembly hall is designed to be spacious, allowing devotees to sit and meditate. The flooring utilizes traditional mosaic patterns.
  • Enclosure: The temple is surrounded by a well-maintained garden and a brick enclosure that houses the collection of ancient sculptures, creating an open-air museum effect.

The sanctum is adorned with silver-coated doors, and the inner walls feature intricate carvings depicting various forms of Hindu deities, yet the overall aesthetic remains minimalist and futuristic.

Darshan & Ritual Logistics

Unlike civilian-managed temples, the EME Temple maintains strict discipline and timing, reflecting military precision. Below are the current timings for 2026.

Daily Darshan Timings

SessionTimings
Morning Darshan09:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Afternoon Break11:30 AM – 05:00 PM (Closed)
Evening Darshan05:00 PM – 08:30 PM
Weekly HolidayFriday

Sevas and Online Booking

Given the temple is managed by the Army, operational procedures are straightforward. While a dedicated “VIP Entry” is not generally available to the public (security protocols apply equally), special access is sometimes arranged for groups through prior written permission from the 505 Army Base Workshop.

  • Daily Sevas: Regular Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) and Archana are performed by the resident priests.
  • Booking: As of 2026, the temple does not have a live consumer-facing “online booking” portal for sevas. Devotees are requested to contact the temple administration via phone for advance arrangements for group prayers or special occasions.
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Major Festivals (2026 Calendar)

  • Maha Shivaratri: February 26, 2026 (Special night-long darshan and chanting).
  • Pradosh Vrat: Monthly (13th day of the lunar fortnight).
  • Navratri: September 22 – October 1, 2026 (Special Garba may be organized within the Army campus).
  • Makar Sankranti: January 14, 2026.

Practical Visitor Guidance

As the temple is situated within an Army cantonment area (Fatehgunj), certain protocols are strictly enforced.

  • Dress Code: Decent, traditional attire is recommended. Men should wear dhoti/kurta or full pants; women should wear saree/salwar kameez.
  • Photography: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum and the complex housing the ancient statues. Mobile phones are allowed but must be kept on silent mode.
  • Security: All visitors must pass through a security checkpoint. ID proof may be required for entry.
  • Crowd Management:
    • Best Time: Weekday mornings (9 AM – 10 AM) are the least crowded.
    • Seasonal Advice: Summers (April–June) in Vadodara are extremely hot. Carry a water bottle and sun protection. The temple interior is cool due to the geodesic design, but the garden area is exposed.

Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach EME Temple, Vadodara

The temple is located in the Fatehgunj area, strategically situated on National Highway 8 (now NH 48).

  • By Air: Vadodara Airport (BDQ) is the nearest airport, located approximately 8-10 km from the temple (approx. 20 mins drive).
  • By Rail: Vadodara Railway Station (also known as BCR or Vadodara Junction) is a major rail hub on the Mumbai-Delhi main line. It is about 5 km from the temple.
  • By Road: From the city center (Sayaji Baug area), it is a 15-minute drive via Fatehgunj Main Road. Local city buses (VTC) and auto-rickshaws are easily available.

Nearby Sacred Sites

Enhance your pilgrimage circuit by visiting these nearby attractions:

  1. Shri Hanuman Temple (Fatehgunj): Located very close to the EME Temple, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
  2. Khodiyar Temple (Atmiya Sadan): A prominent shrine dedicated to Goddess Khodiyar, located about 4 km away.
  3. Sayaji Baug (Kamati Baug): While primarily a garden, it houses a Ganesh temple and a planetarium, ideal for family visits.

Photo Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the history of the EME Temple in Vadodara?

The EME Temple was built in 1966 by the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps of the Indian Army. It is a geodesic structure dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurti, a form of Lord Shiva as the cosmic teacher. It is unique because it incorporates religious symbols of all faiths within its complex.

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2. Why is the EME Temple also called the Dakshinamurti Temple?

The temple is named after the primary deity installed in the sanctum, Dakshinamurti. This form of Lord Shiva faces south and is revered as the ultimate teacher (Guru) who imparts spiritual knowledge through silence. This form is rarely found in Hindu temples, making this temple distinct.

3. Is there a VIP Darshan entry available at EME Temple?

No, the temple is managed by the Indian Army, and standard security protocols apply to all visitors. There is no specific “VIP Darshan” queue for the general public. All devotees enter through the main gate after security screening.

4. What are the opening hours of EME Temple?

The temple is open for two sessions daily: 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM. It remains closed on Fridays and during specific maintenance periods or security drills.

5. Is photography allowed inside the temple complex?

Photography is prohibited inside the temple complex, specifically around the sanctum sanctorum and the garden area where ancient statues are displayed. Visitors are advised to deposit cameras and mobile phones in lockers provided at the entrance if requested by security.

6. How is the architecture of the EME Temple different from other temples?

The EME Temple utilizes a Geodesic Dome structure covered in aluminium sheets, which is a hallmark of modern architecture. Unlike traditional stone temples (Nagara or Dravida styles), it focuses on geometric efficiency and modern materials, symbolizing the fusion of technology and spirituality.

Contact Details

Address: EME Temple, Near Fatehgunj, Vadodara, Gujarat 390002, India.
Phone: +91 88958 83823
Management: 505 Army Base Workshop, Indian Army.

Note: For the most up-to-date security timings or closures due to army events, it is advisable to call the temple office before planning your visit.

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