Dilwara Temples : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Set amidst the picturesque hills of mount Abu, Rajasthan, the Dilwara Temples are one of the finest examples of Jain art and architecture in India. Completed nearly 900 years ago, the four temples of the ancient Dilwara complex attract thousands of tourists and devotees from all parts of the world. Built mainly from beautiful white marble, the intricate detailed carvings and exquisite sculptures are marvels of craftsmanship and ingenuity. Though the primary purpose of these temples is to provide a place of worship to Jains, the complex has also attracted numerous admirers over the years for its gorgeous aesthetics. In this blog, we will dive right into some of the interesting facts about these magnificent temples, as well as travel information for visitors.

Interesting Facts About Dilwara Temples

1. The Dilwara temples have been built over a period of nearly 800 years, from the 11th century to the 19th century.

2. The Dilwara temples architecture includes a rare combination of solar and lunar influences.

3. The intricate designs and finishing of the stones used for the construction of the Dilwara temples have been achieved with great care and precision.

4. The Ornamental pillar in Dilwara temples is considered to be one of the finest works of Indian artisans.

5. The unique sculptures within the Dilwara temples are considered to be a representation of a variety of Hindu gods and goddesses.

6. Because of the spiritual atmosphere inside the temples, you will find devotees meditating and chanting hymns.

7. There is a large water tank inside the temple complex which is dedicated to Lord Brahma.

8. A mysterious rock in the temple complex is known to be carved with a single stroke of a carver’s tool.

9. The sacred water of the lake near the temple is believed to provide long life to anyone who takes a holy bath in it.

10. The Dilwara temple complex also houses a Jain museum which has a collection of over 8,000 Jain manuscripts.

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History & Information About Dilwara Temples

The Dilwara Temples are a complex of five Jain temples in Mount Abu, a hill station in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan, India. The temples were constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries AD and are considered to be one of the most beautiful Jain pilgrimage sites in the country. The temples are renowned for their incredible use of marble, exquisite sculpting, and impressive architecture.

The temples have been built by different Jain communities and are known to represent the five paths of Jainism. These temples are considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India and are visited by millions of Jain followers each year. The five main temples in the complex are dedicated to the five Jain Tirthankaras, or saints: Shri Rishabdevji, Shri Adinathji, Shri Nemnathji, Shri Mahavirji, and Shri Parshvanathji.

The construction of these temples began in the 11th century, but they were not completed until the 13th century. Originally, these temples were believed to have been dedicated to the mother goddess, Eklingji, goddess of Mount Abu, but later they were thought to have been constructed as places of pilgrimage for different Jain sects. The complex is surrounded by a high wall with four gates, all leading into different sections of the courtyard. The main temple has a spire of about 180 feet and the other four structures measure up to 90 feet in height.

The walls and domes of the buildings are decorated with intricate marble carvings that depict various stories from Hindu and Jain mythology. Inside the temples, there are many beautiful idols carved out of marble, depicting various Jain saints. The ceilings of the temples have interesting designs crafted out of inlaid marble in blue and yellow. The inner sanctums of the temples are filled with intricately carved sculptures of the Jain Tirthankaras that stand majestically in the middle of the temples. These statues are further adorned with small silver and gold gift boxes that are given to the worshippers.

The complex also houses several small shrines dedicated to Hindu gods and goddesses, and is also home to various Buddhist and Jain themes and sculptures. Today, the temples attract tourists from all over the world who come to marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate sculptures. Devotees flock to the temples throughout the year, and a variety of celebrations are carried out at the site to commemorate the various Jain festivals.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Dilwara Temples

Dilwara Temples, located in the scenic mountain retreat of Mount Abu, Rajasthan, are renowned for their exquisite Jain architecture built with white marble. Visit these two thousand year old temples dedicated to five Jain trithankara and explore exquisitely carved walls, ceilings, and domes featuring ‘mandaps’.

How to Reach Dilwara Temples

Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport located at a distance of 166 km.

Rail: Abu Road Station is the nearest railway station located at a distance of 27 km.

Road: Mount Abu can be easily reached by road from major cities and towns of Rajasthan, such as Udaipur, Jaipur, Ahmedabad as well as other cities of India. Hourly buses are available from Udaipur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad.

Things to Know Before You Visit Dilwara Temples

• Dilwara Temples are closed on Mondays and certain other festivals for the Jain community.

• Visitors should be appropriately dressed and must remove footwear before entering the temple premises.

• You can hire a guide to help you explore the history and architecture of the temples.

• Don’t forget to take photographs for your album.

• One should be mindful and respectful of the rules and regulations of the temple when visiting.

• Make sure you make a generous donation to the management of the temple.

Timings of the Dilwara Temples

Dilwara Temples are open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the week, except for Mondays.

Where to Stay

Mount Abu has many hotels and resorts to choose from. There are several budget hotels and guest houses which can provide a comfortable stay for visitors. Apart from this, there are many luxury resorts which offer exquisite accommodations and facilities like spa treatments and outdoor activities.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dilwara Temples

1. Where are the Dilwara Temples located?

The Dilwara Temples are located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, India.

2. Who built the Dilwara Temples?

The Dilwara Temples were built by Vastupal-Tejpal, two brothers and Jain ministers of the Solanki Rajput kingdom, in the 11th century.

3. What type of temple is the Dilwara Temple?

The Dilwara Temple is a Jain temple complex built in the architectural style of Indian temples.

4. What is the most popular attraction at the Dilwara Temples?

The most popular attraction at the Dilwara Temples is the beautifully carved marble archways, pillars and pillars.

5. Is photography allowed inside the Dilwara Temples?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Dilwara Temples, but you are not allowed to use a flash light as it is a religious site.

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