11 Jan 2017

Ranakpur jain Temple – an architectural wonder

by | posted in: Asia, India, Rajasthan | 6
The journey to Ranakpur itself was memorable due to the winding roads in Aravali hills. As we reached Ranakpur, we realised that contrary to our expectations it was not a town or village. There were only Jain Temples and nothing else!! Very interesting!!

 

Ranakpur temple surrounded by hills

 

Ranakpur is about 90 km from Udaipur and is famous because of its Jain temples. Though it is newer than Dilwara temples, it does compete with respect to architectural beauty. The temple lies on the way between Udaipur and Jodhpur.

 

Front view of Ranakpur Jain Temple

 

The temple area was maintained well. Parking areas were clearly marked. While the entry was free for Indians, foreigners need to pay. Unlike Dilwara temples, photography was allowed here by paying Rs 100 as camera charge.

 

Inside the temple

 

From outside, the main temple looks grand and huge. This three story temple is 102 feet tall and occupies an area of 48,000 square feet. Constructed in 15th century by Dharnashah Porwal during the reign of Maharana Kumba, it had taken 50 years to complete.

 

Hallway in the temple

 

As we entered into the temple, the grandeur strikes us. The ceiling and the pillars are carved exquisitely. It is said that no two pillars are carved similarly and I just believe it. It is also hard to count the number of pillars. There are so many of them.

 

Ceiling of the temple

 

The deity of Parsvanath requires special mention as it has 1008 heads of snake and numerous tails, the ends that cannot be found.

 

Deity of Parsvanath

 

The main temple is dedicated to Adinatha, the first Thirthankara.  In addition to the main temple, there are two small temples namely Parsvanath and Neminath temple. There is also a sun temple nearby.

Note

Apart from the temple complex, there is nothing much in Ranakpur. I could only see a bhojanalaya and lodging run by temple authority. On the way from Udaipur, there are many restaurants serving food. For non Jains, temple is only open from 12 to 5 PM.

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