Dilwara Jain Temple Mount Abu
Dilwara Jain Temple the temple is the most beautiful pilgrimage site for the Jains situated amidst the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan. The temple was constructed by Vastupala Tejpal between the 11th and 13th centuries. The temple is famous for its intricate carvings and adorned with marble from every corner. Dilwara Jain Temple is one of the major Jain pilgrimage centers in India. This Dilwara temple (Dilwara Mandir) consists of five Jain temples, which are mainly known for their religious and architectural significance. These temples are 2.5–3 km from the center of Mount Abu city. Bus and taxi facilities are easily available to visit the temple.
Dilwara Jain Mandir History
Dilwara Jain temple was built by the Chalukya dynasty in the 11th and 13th century AD. Even though this temple looks very common from outside, but the extraordinary doors at its entrance shows its architectural superiority. The roof, door, pillar and panel of this temple have very finely carved decoration, which explains the uniqueness of its architecture. The most surprising thing of this temple is at that time there was no facility to carry such huge blocks of marble at a height of 1200 meters. Elephants were then used to carry marble from Ambaji to Mount Abu on their backs.
The Five Marvels of Dilwara Jain Temple
There are five similar temples in the Dilwara temple, namely Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalahar, Parshwanath and Mahavir Swamy Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, Lord Rishabhbho, Lord Neminath, Lord Mahavir Swami and Lord Parshvanath respectively. Each of these temples has a mandapa, garbhagriha, a central chamber and the innermost sanctorum where it is believed to be the abode of God. These temples have Navachoki which is a group of nine decorated roofs. Some other structures also have the Kirthi Stambha and Hathishala which state their Jain values and principles.
Best Time to Visit
Summer Season (April – June):- The summer days are warm and evening will be chill and comfortable. Rajasthan as a whole is a very hot state and thus, most of the locals and tourists from surrounding seasons flock to the hill station during summer season.
Monsoon (July – September):- The monsoon season starts in July and ends in September. Although there might not be quite a drop in temperature, the place will be pleasing with frequent rains.
Winter (October – March):- The winter starts in November and ends in February. The temperature can go as low as 12 degree C. Unlike other hill stations, winter is not extreme in Mount Abu. The place is cool and refreshing. All the adventure activities will be open and accessible during this season.
How to Reach Mount Abu (Dilwara Jain Temple)
BY AIR:- Nearest Airport is Udaipur but flight connectivity to Ahmadabad is better. From here, taxi to Mount Abu could be hired easily.
By Train:- Abu road is the nearest railway station, which is connected with all the major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmadabad and Jaipur.
By Road :- From National Highway 14, tourists on road can reach to Mount Abu.
