Jain Temples - Jaisalmer

The halcyon hued Jaisalmer, established in 1156, is a traveler's paradise. An ideal getaway destination for all history buffs, the sojourn of the land of the Sonar Killa vouches to be an unforgettable experience. Among the wonderful tourist attractions of the region, the cluster of Jain shrines registers huge footfalls. Housed in the fort of Jaisalmer, these etching embellished Rishabdevji, Sambhavnathji and Ashtapadi temples can be traced back to the twelfth and fifteenth centuries. Fuelled by the affluent traders of the Marwari community, the temples depict scenes from the amazing world of mythology. The sacred precinct is also the abode of the well stocked Gyan Bhandar, a treasure trove of valuable holographs. Backpackers can pay their respects to divinities till twelve o' clock in the afternoon. Besides, devotees can also troop to shrines of Ganesha and Shiva, that are also among the main highlights.

Among Jain shrines, devotees flock in hordes to the temple of Rishabdevji. Situated in the near vicinity of the dilapidated Moomal mansion, the shrine is a testimony to brilliant artistry. Built in the year 1479, with generous donations from a rich Marwari merchant, you will come across a piece of marvelous architecture at the entryway. An intricately etched 'toran', a magnificent 'mandap', icons of Rishabdevji, along with images of tirthankaras are the hallmarks of this lovely temple. The revered Rishabdevji has a bull as his insignia.

The first thing that strikes you about the temple of Shambhavnath is an eight-sided polygon shaped protective covering and strong defense structures that cocoons it. Situated on the left hand side of the temple of Rishabdevji, the Shambhavnath shrine boasts of a collection of holographs, which you will hardly come across.

Besides, you can also visit the Ashtapadi shrine that has wonderful etchings of gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. Temples devoted to Chintamani Paraswanath, Chandraswami, Sheetalnath, Mahaveer Swami and Shantinath are some of the other of frequented Jain temples.

So, stack your bags with the essentials and head towards Jaisalmer.