Indian Temples : Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu- Rajasthan India - History & highlights

 

Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu – Full Guide

1. History (In Detail)

The Dilwara Temples are a group of five Jain temples, considered among the finest examples of marble architecture in India. They are located in Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan.

  • Construction Period: Between the 11th and 13th centuries.
  • Commissioned By: Built mainly under the patronage of Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty ministers and wealthy Jain merchants.
  • Key Patrons:
    • Vimal Shah, a minister of the Solanki ruler Bhima I, constructed the Vimal Vasahi Temple (1031 CE) dedicated to Lord Adinath (Rishabhanatha).
    • Tejpal and Vastupal, ministers of King Virdhaval of Gujarat, built the Luna Vasahi Temple (1230 CE), dedicated to Lord Neminatha.

These temples were hidden within dense forests in medieval times to protect them from invading armies. Despite some damage over the centuries, the temples have been preserved and restored, retaining their intricate craftsmanship.

2. Significance

  • Spiritual Importance: One of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Shwetambar Jains. It is believed that visiting the Dilwara Temples helps in attaining spiritual purification and blessings from the Tirthankaras.
  • Architectural Glory: These temples are not just religious centers but also serve as a symbol of Jain devotion, artistry, and precision.
  • Cultural Value: The temples represent non-violence, purity, and ascetic values of Jainism through their art, carvings, and design ethos.

3. Temple Details (Full)

There are five main temples within the Dilwara complex, all made entirely of white marble, and each dedicated to a different Jain Tirthankara:

a) Vimal Vasahi Temple (Adinath Temple) – 1031 CE

  • Oldest and most impressive in terms of design and layout.
  • Built by Vimal Shah.
  • Dedicated to Adinath (1st Tirthankara).
  • Features include:
    • Elaborate ceiling carvings.
    • 52 devkulikas (subsidiary shrines).
    • An open courtyard with pillared corridors and intricate latticework.

b) Luna Vasahi Temple (Neminath Temple) – 1230 CE

  • Built by Tejpal and Vastupal.
  • Dedicated to Neminath (22nd Tirthankara).
  • Carvings here are more delicate and refined.
  • Highlights:
    • Stunning ceiling in the Rang Mandap (assembly hall) showing 72 seated Tirthankaras and 360 Jain monks.
    • Delicately sculpted marble elephants.

c) Pittalhar Temple (Rishabha Temple)

  • Built by Bhima Shah, a Jain merchant.
  • Dedicated again to Adinath.
  • Notable for:
    • A massive metallic idol (pittal) of Adinath.
    • Large hall with richly carved ceilings and pillars.

d) Parshvanatha Temple

  • Built in the 15th century.
  • Dedicated to Parshvanatha (23rd Tirthankara).
  • Smaller in size but showcases beautiful black marble work and fine etchings.

e) Mahavir Swami Temple

  • Dedicated to Mahavira (24th Tirthankara).
  • The smallest among the five temples.
  • Has attractive murals and wall paintings.

4. Timings

  • Open Daily:
    6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Darshan Timings for Tourists (Non-Jain visitors):
    • 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Note:
    • Photography is strictly prohibited inside.
    • Shoes and leather items are not allowed inside temple premises.

5. Connectivity

  • Location:
    Mount Abu, Sirohi district, Rajasthan, India.

  • By Air:

    • Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap Airport (Udaipur) – ~185 km away.
    • Regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur.

  • By Rail:

    • Nearest railway station: Abu Road Railway Station – 28 km from Mount Abu.
    • Well-connected to cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Delhi.

  • By Road:

    • Mount Abu is accessible via National Highway 27.
    • Direct buses and taxis are available from Udaipur (165 km), Ahmedabad (225 km), Jaipur (475 km).

  • Local Transport:

    • Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses can take you from Mount Abu town to the temple complex.

6. Legacy

  • Architectural Marvel: Considered one of the most exquisite marble temple complexes in the world, often compared to the Taj Mahal in craftsmanship.
  • Preservation of Jain Heritage: The temples are preserved and maintained by the Jain community and temple trusts, showcasing centuries-old religious devotion.
  • Global Recognition: A site of interest not just for pilgrims but also for architects, historians, and art lovers.
  • Tourism Landmark: The temples attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, boosting local tourism and Mount Abu’s cultural identity.


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