Witness the creation that was born out of a divine vision by experiencing the Ranakpur Temple in Rajasthan. This Jain temple is so significant that it even lends its name to the village it’s situated in. Flaunting the Solanki style of architecture, the temple was built in honour of the first Tirthankara Rishabhanatha. Also known as Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara, this 15th-century temple was built using white marble.
The temple falls in the Pali district of Rajasthan. Another cool trivia regarding its name “Chaturmukha ” is that it’s derived from the 4-faced idol you will find inside the temple of Lord Adinath. There are many such compelling things about the temple that are best witnessed in person. Thinking of experiencing the Ranakpur Temple in Rajasthan already? This is what you should know!
Who Built The Ranakpur Temple And When?
There was a Jain businessman called Dharna Sah. He once had a dream about a heavenly vehicle, which was essentially a temple. Dharna was highly motivated to make the temple happen and dedicate it to Lord Adinath (the first Tirthankara of Jainism). So eventually, he received a permit from Rana Kumbha, the then ruler of Udaipur, to build it. Rana Kumbha had just one condition – the temple and the town should be named after him. Hence, today it is known as the Ranakpur Temple.
It took a total of 50 years for the temple to be built. Eventually, the temple was completed in the 15th century. The exact date is not entirely known, as different records state different things. Some state it was completed in 1496, and others mention 1458. But this gigantic celestial dream of a temple involved over 2700 workers for its construction. Either way, visiting Ranakpur Temple is like taking a stroll through history itself. Worth visiting!
Best Time To Visit The Ranakpur Temple?
We would suggest visiting between October and March, mainly because the summer season in Rajasthan can be unbearably hot. The temperature can even go beyond 40 degrees at times. So the winter season is the best time to visit Ranakpur Temple.
Afternoons in winter are cool and pleasant in Rajasthan. But depends on your resistance level, too. Just make sure you carry some warm clothes if you’re visiting between November and February.
How To Travel To The Ranakpur Temple?
Getting To The Ranakpur Temple By Air
If you’re coming from far off or prefer flights in general, the nearest airport is in Udaipur. It’s situated around 105 km away from the temple. From the airport, you can either opt for a bus or simply get a cab. The latter will be faster and more comfortable. Depending on your budget, this would be a good choice if you’re traveling in a group of 3-4 people.
Getting To The Ranakpur Temple By Train
While Ranakpur doesn’t have its own railway station, the nearest one is just about 30 km away in Falna. Falna Railway Station has good connectivity, so getting a train here shouldn’t be too big a hassle. From here, you can get a bus or a cab.
Getting To The Ranakpur Temple By Road
You usually get buses to the villages of Sanderao or Falna. Sanderao is about 50 km away, while Falna is around 30 km away. There are frequent buses from Jaipur (360 kms), Jodhpur (154 kms) and Udaipur (94 kms). If you have your vehicle, you could always do a road trip and drive all the way here.
Things To Know Before Visiting The Ranakpur Temple
- There is no entry fee.
- The timings here are from 12 pm to 5 pm.
- It’s a religious place, so you should dress appropriately (cover bare shoulders, avoid wearing shorts or short skirts).
- You are not allowed to wear or carry anything made of leather.
- There are provisions to get a locker to store anything, particularly if it is made of leather.
- If you want to carry a cellphone or a camera, you’ll need to pay INR 100.
What Makes The Ranakpur Temple Special?
The temple consists of 80 domes, 29 halls and 1444 pillars. The structure of the temple and its architecture are too fabulous not to get fixated on. You get to witness the various teachings of Jainism, which are carved pictorially throughout the temple. There are so many intricate carvings and motifs to admire, and the ceiling is also really mesmeric. You feel like creativity oozes throughout the temple.
Moreover, the Ranakpur Jain Temple’s complex has temples of its own. If you’re into art or history, you will love this place. But even if you’re not a religious person or into art and history, it’s a good place to visit. The peaceful vibe here and the beauty of the place warrant you spending at least some time here.
FAQs
Which Jain Temple Is Famous In Rajasthan?
The Ranakpur Jain temple is the most famous in Rajasthan. It is a 15th-century temple that, till today, holds reverence in the hearts of worshippers and garners the attention of all others.
Which Is The Oldest Jain Temple?
The Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir in Delhi is the oldest known Jain temple. It was established in 1656.
Is Ranakpur Worth Visiting?
The Ranakpur Temple in Rajasthan is certainly worth a visit for both believers and non-believers alike; not only is it historic, but the architecture and the structure itself are a marvel to witness.
How Can I Reach Ranakpur Jain Temple From Udaipur?
You can get a cab or a bus to take you to the Ranakpur Temple from Udaipur. The drive is around 2 hours long.
How Far Is Ranakpur From Kumbhalgarh?
Ranakpur is 50 km away from Kumbhalgarh, and takes a 1.5-hour drive to get there.
How Far Is Ranakpur From Udaipur?
Ranakpur is 93 kms away from Udaipur.
What Are Jain Temples Called?
Jain temples are called Derasars, though the name can differ regionally. For example, Basadi is the term used more often in South India.
What Does Jainism Mean?
Jainism is a religion that originated years ago in India. Broadly put, Jainism revolves around concern for the welfare of every being in the universe, down to the smallest insects, and for the health of the universe itself.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Ranakpur Temple In Rajasthan?
The best time to visit the Ranakpur Temple is in the winter months of November to February.
