Ranakpur is one of the holy places of Jain pilgrimage. Beautiful sculpture and grand structures mark the glory of this place. Popularly known as the Chaumukha, the temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath. It was built in the 15 th century. There are 80 domes supported by 1444 pillars in the temple and none of them is similar. The play of light and shade on the minutely carved figures leaves a tantalising effect.
Ranakpur Jain temple is a great work of art in white marble with intricate carvings. Each pillars of the temple are carved to a great extend.The beauty of the temple cannot be expressed in words. The white marble for this temple was quarried from Makrana in Rajastan, which also has the credit of supplying quality white marble to Agra's Taj Mahal and Victoria memorial at Kolkata.
Ranakpur Adinath Jain temple complex is located 85 km from Udaipur in Rajastan. The nearest railhead is Falna on the Ahmedabad - Marwar/Jodhpur line. Falna has a beautiful golden Jain temple. The Falna Jain temple has a mirror decorated chamber for prayers. Travel from Falna to Ranakpur Jain temple take one hour by bus. Frequency of bus service is regular.
The area is rich in wild life - variety of birds and animals can be seen. Monkey, Pigeon, Owl, eagle, Peacock, Squirrel are commonly seen on roadside. One can go for Thirthankar nature trail (3.7 km long) through the jungle to watch the wildlife. On the way one can visit a cave at a scenic place in the forest.Tickets are available from Forest office located near the temple complex.
The nearby shrines are also worth visiting - Parasnath temple, Neminath temple and Surya temple. These temples can be visited within 30 minutes of time on foot. One can get accommodation with minimum facilities at the temple dharmashala at cheap rates. Bed sheets are not provided. A mosquito free place where one can enjoy the full night sleep.
The time for photography inside the temple is from 12 noon to 5 pm. The fee for photography is Rs 50 only.
On the return journey one can visit the beautiful Dilwara group of Jain temples located at Mount Abu. Abu road railway station is 2 hour journey from Falna by Express train. Mount Abu is 30 km from the Abu road railway station.
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