Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu is one of the most beautiful pilgrimage sites for Jains. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and the extensive use of marble in every corner. The magical marble structure captivates visitors and excites them to return again and again. So, if you haven’t visited the temple yet, here is the complete information of the temple including timings, history, architecture, religious significance, and everything that you are looking for.
Majestic Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu
The temple was constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries by Vimal Shah and designed by Vastu Pal and Tej Pal. Looking at the temple from the outside, it appears quite plain but as you step inside you will be surprised to by the designs on the ceilings, walls, arches, and pillars.
Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu History
The history of the temple starts with its construction by the Chalukya dynasty. The temple is simple outside but it is extraordinary from inside. The temple’s ceilings, doors, pillars, and panels are adorned with intricately carved decorations that showcase the uniqueness of its architecture. You will be more surprised to know that when the temple was constructed there were no facilities to transport such large blocks of marble to a height of 1200 meters. Therefore, elephants were used to carry the marble on their backs from Ambaji to Mount Abu.
Dilwara Temples Architecture
The architecture of Jain temples is inspired by the Nagara style. It holds a collection of ancient manuscripts. The Dilwara temples consist of five temples of similar size, all of which are single-storied. Each temple has a total of 48 pillars adorned with beautiful figures of women in various dance postures. The main attraction of the temple is the ‘Ranga Mandap,’ which features a dome-shaped ceiling. At the center of this ceiling is a chandelier-like structure surrounded by sixteen stone-carved statues of Vidyadevi, the Goddess of Knowledge. Other carvings include designs of lotus flowers, deities, and abstract patterns.
The Five Magical Marvels of Dilwara Temples Mount Abu
The most notable feature of the temple are the five equal temples named Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanath, and Mahavir Swami temples. Lord Adinath, Lord Rishabhdev, Lord Neminath, Lord Mahavir Swami, and Lord Parshvanath are the deities worshipped in the temples. Each temple has a mandap, a central chamber, a sanctum, and an inner sanctum. These temples also feature a ‘Navchowki,’ which is a group of nine elaborately decorated ceilings. Kirti Stambh and Hathishala, are the other notable structures that symbolize Jain values and principles.
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Dilwara Temples Timings
The temple is open for Jain devotees from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For visitors from other religions, the temple is opened from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Visitors must note that clicking photos and making videos of the temple premises are restricted. There is no entry fee to visit the temple.
Best Time to Visit Dilwara Temples Mount Abu
Although in Mlount Abu the climate is pleasant throughout the year. But the months April and June are quite warm. The monsoon and winter seasons are the best times to visit this place as the weather is neither too cold nor too rainy, making it ideal for exploring the area.
How to Reach Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu?
The beautiful Dilwara temples are located at the only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu. It is just 2.5 kms from it. The temple is easily accessible from all means of transportation. If you are travelling from your own vehicle, you can easily reach out the temple because buses not run in this route. Although, taxi and autorikshaw are allowed on this route.
If you are thinking to reach the destination from air transport, there is no direct airport at Mount Abu. Udaipur Airport is the nearest Airport. For foreign visitors, it is better to land at Ahmedabad International Airport. You can also book connecting flights from Mumbai, Jaipur, and Delhi to Udaipur. After that, you can book a cab or a taxi for Mount Abu.
If you prefer traveling by train, there are several regular train services available between Jaipur and Ahmedabad to Mount Abu. However, if you’re traveling from a city other than Jaipur or Ahmedabad, we suggest opting for a taxi as reaching Mount Abu by train might be inconvenient. The train route to Mount Abu is quite long.
Tourist Places Near Dilwara Temples
There are so many places to visit near Dilwara Temples. Among them the most visited tourist places are:
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Guru Shikhar
- Arbuda Devi Temple
- Shri Raghunath Temple
- Sunset Point
- Achalgarh Fort
- Universal Peace Hall
- Toad Rock
- Trevors Tank
- Gaumukh Temple
- Nakki Lake
Food Options at Mount Abu
Mount Abu is a hill station where you can find multiple vegetarian food options. But if you are looking for non-vegetarian food options, you will barely find any restaurants. The major reason for this, is the Dilwara temples at the location, as the Jainese are mostly vegetarian. However, you can easily find Rajasthani, Punjabi, and Chinese food at the location. But its better if you enjoy the local food.
Want to explore other tourist destinations and temples in Rajasthan, visit our site, InRajasthan.in.