History of Achalgadh Teerth According to history Achalgadh Teerth dates back to the ancient times. The castle where the temple is located was constructed by Rana Kumbha in V.S. 1509. The idol of Bhagwan Rishabh Dev is also very old and was ceremoniously inaugurated on the forth day of the dark half of Vaishakh 1518 of Vikram Samvat Era. The idol was constructed by Karmade. Another idol located at the entrance of the temple in the eastern direction was constructed by the Sangha of the village. Achalgadh Teerth is regarded as the land of nirvana of the great ascetic saint Mahatama Vijayshantisurishvarji. He had practiced great penance here. He also inspired many kings to abstain from taking flesh and wine and also to give up hunting. A beautiful and big photograph of Vijayshantisurishvarji ihas been kept at the place of his nirvana. Temple of Achalgadh Teerth The temple of Achalgadh Teerth houses the idol of Bhagwan Rishabh Dev. This is an old temple that stands as a perfect example of ancient art. The idol of the temple is golden in colour and is 1.5 metre in height. It is made of metal and is seated in a padmasana posture. Being carved of a metal the idol looks very attractive and is said to possess miraculous powers. Another temple of Chaumukhiji located here was constructed by Sahasa, the son of Sanghavi Saliga. He was an inhabitant of Achalgadh. The idol of Pundarikaswami is also installed here. All the idols of the deities are equal in shape and size and look majestic. Apart from these there are three other temples located here. The temples of Lord Shantinath, Lord Kunthunath, and Lord Adinath can also be seen here. The idol of Lord Kunthunath is made of brass and looks spectacular. These temples are also very ancient and represent the finest specimens of architectural beauty. The caves of Gopichand and Bhartuhari, the Bhrugu Ashram, the Mandakini Kund and the Tirthvijay Ashram located here are also remarkable and worth visiting. Achalgadh Teerth being located on the hill is surrounded by scenic beauty that enthrals the heart of the pilgrims. The calm and tranquil environment of the kshetra is ideal for religious activities. The pleasant environment of this place gives a unique experience of spiritualism to the pilgrims. There are provisions for dharamshalas or rest houses for the devotees. Several annual gatherings and festivals are organised by the temple authorities. Achalgadh Teerth is well connected to road, rail and air. Buses, taxis and private vehicles are easily available for this kshetra. The teerth is at a distance of 6 kilometers from Mount Abu and 4 kilometers from Delwada. The nearest railway station of Abu Road is at a distance of 37 kilometers. There is an upashray for Sadhus and Sadhvis. There is an ascending road of 400 meters from Achalagadh to the temple. |