Dilwara Jain Temples (Mount Abu)

India / Rajasthan / Mount Abu
 Jain temple / derasar  Add category
Dilwara Temples are one of the finest Jain temples & many even consider them architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal.
*Built between 11th & 13th century, the most outstanding feature are its exquisite carvings in marble.
The two temples Vimala Vasahi & Luna Vasahi are singled out by experts as superb examples of architecture.Dilwara Jain Temples is one of the finest Jain temple known world over for its extraordinary architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings, some experts also consider it architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal. It seems fairly basic temple from outside but every cloud has a silver lining, the temple interior showcases the extraordinary work of human craftsmanship at its best. These temples were built between 11th to 13th century AD, The beautiful lush green hills surrounding the temple gives a very pleasant feeling. The ornamental details of marble stone carvings is phenomenal and unmatched, The minutely carved ceilings and the pillars are just amazing. All this was done at a time when no transport or roads were available at a height of 1200+ Mtrs in Mount Abu, Huge blocks of marble stones were transported on elephant backs from the Arasoori Hills at Ambaji to this remote hilly region of Mount Abu. Dilwara temples is also a popular Jain pilgrimage attraction.
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   24°36'33"N   72°43'22"E

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  • The Jain Dilwara temples of India are located about 2½ kilometers from Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station. These temples dating back from the 11th to the 13th century AD are world famous for their stunning use of marble. The five legendary marble temples of Dilwara are the sacred pilgrimage of the Jains. They are an overwhelming blend of simple beauty and exquisite elegance. The marble temples have an opulent entranceway. The simplicity in architecture verily reminds one that Jainism has always encouraged honesty and frugality. The temples reside amidst mesmerizing surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills. A high wall, shimmering luminous in the sunlight, shrouds the temple complex. Dilwara TemplesAlthough the Jains built some beautiful temples at other places in Rajasthan, none come close to these in terms of architectural perfection. The ornamental detail spread over the minutely carved ceilings, doorways, pillars and panels is simply marvellous and has to be seen to be believed. For the people who come to perform pooja here, there are facilities to take bath and get ready. The facilities use solar power to heat up the water for bath and other usage. There are guided tour hours for tourists which are posted outside the temple. You might see occasional monkeys looking for food outside the temple area.
  • The Jain temples at Dilwara, near Mount Abu are considered to be masterpieces of temple architecture. The Vimalvashi temple was built by the commander Vimalshah on the order of King Bhimdev in 1031 A.D. It took around 1,500 workers, several years to build. There are forty eight pillars, sixteen pillars have the images of females figures in dancing poses. The rang mandap is a beautiful piece of architecture. The images that can be seen are Saraswati, Lakshmi as well as scenes from the princely courts of Ayodhya and Takshashila. Navchauki is a platform divided into nine parts. The artistic roots are decorated with elephants and goddesses. Lunvasahi temple has the image of the Jain tirthankara Neminath. Sculptures in stone, elaborate carvings, beautiful pillars, dome shaped roofs give a majestic and surreal look to the temple. There are sixteen images of the goddess of knowdege and also carved are glimpses from Lord Krishnas life. The footsteps of Dada Sahab and the kirti Stambha are also worth a mention. Apart from these, the temples dedicated to Rishabhdev, Parshvanath and Lord Mahavir are also classical examples of art
  • near places of visit are famous JAIN TEMPLES(10) , MAHADEV TEMPLES(26) GOOD & FINE OLD TRADITIONS *& LIFESTYLES