
The
Jain Temple of Ranakpur is dedicated to Adinath. The building of temple complex started in 15th century and it took 100 years to complete the structure. It lies in the remote valley of the Aravali range and it is haled as one of the five holiest Jain sites. The principal temple,
Chaumukha Temple, was built in the year 1439 with 29 halls and is supported by 1444 pillars. The temple is constructed with the help of a cream colored marble. The stone sculpture of the temple is a visual treaty for the beholder.
Jain Temple in Ranakpur is located at a distance of 90 km from Udaipur or 25 km from Kumbhalgarh. Every nook and corner of the shrine is carved with the images of Jain saints. Open on all the four sides the quadruple figure of Adinath stands in the main sanctuary. The temple is three storied with four subsidiary shrines. A total of 80 spires are supported by 420 columns. The intricate stonework will remind the visitors of lace work. The unending vistas of the carved pillars reveal floral and scroll motifs preferably than the human figures. With the shift in the daylight the colors of the pillars also alter. Such amazing features of the Jain temple in
Rajasthan make it a popular tourist destination.
The entire interior of the temple is done in details. The precision with which the work has been done is truly impressive. Another important attraction of the temple is the Bodhi tree. It is considered to be 400 years old. It is an example of a living Kalpa-Vriksha. Two smaller Jain temples are also located within the premises of the temple-the Parsvanadi and the Neminath. These temples house exquisite sculptures and pierced stone work. Besides these 15th century Hindu Surya Narayan Temple, dedicated to the Sun God is also to be found in the star shaped temple complex.
(Last Updated on : 25/08/2010)