Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu, India
- Admire intricate marble carvings
- Capture the beauty through photography
- Explore the five Jain temples
- Learn about Jain history and philosophy
- Witness the stunning architecture
Known for:
Description:
The Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu, Rajasthan are a group of five Jain temples renowned for their stunning use of marble and intricate carvings. Each temple is unique in its architecture and dedicated to a different Jain Tirthankara. The Vimal Vasahi Temple, dedicated to Adinatha, is famous for its Navchowki, a central dome with nine intricately carved ceilings. The Luna Vasahi Temple, dedicated to Neminatha, is known for its exquisite carvings of elephants and celestial nymphs. The delicate filigree work, toranas (decorative gateways), and marble sculptures depicting Jain mythology are breathtaking. The play of light and shadow on the polished marble surfaces creates a mesmerizing effect.
History:
The Dilwara Temples were built between the 11th and 13th centuries CE during the reign of the Solanki dynasty. Vimal Shah, a minister of the Solanki ruler Bhima I, commissioned the Vimal Vasahi Temple. Tejpal, a wealthy Jain merchant, commissioned the Luna Vasahi Temple. Vastupal-Tejpal, brothers and ministers of the Vaghela ruler Viradhavala, are credited with building the remaining three temples, though these are less prominent. The temples represent a high point of Jain temple architecture and reflect the prosperity and piety of the Jain community during that era.