Dilwara Temples Travel Guide
Amazing Filligree Carving
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The main attraction of Rajasthan’s only hill station are the amazing filigree-like Dilwara Temples. Built between the 11th and 13th century, they are famous for their superb carvings in marble, so fine as to appear almost translucent.
Mount Abu was has been an important Vaishnavite and Shivaite pilgrim centre since the 11th century and today is world-famous for it's magnificent Jain temples. Half hidden by mango groves their sober exterior belies the wealth of their interior ornamentation. Wondrously carved in marble, the Dilwara temples enshrine various Jain tirthankars, or saints. So fine is the carving that it appears almost transparent.
Attractions in Dilwara Temples
Vimal Vasahi is the oldest temple, and was built by Vimal Shah, Minister of Solanki ruler of Gujarat in 1031. It is dedicated to Adinath, the first of the Jain tirthankars. Constructed out of white marble from Arasoori Hill, near Ambaji, 23 km from Abu Road, it is an outstanding example of Jain temple architecture. The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and a large courtyard with 52 small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue of tirthankars with 48 elegantly carved pillars from the entrance to the courtyard.
The Vasahi Temple, dedicated to the 22nd tirthankar- Neminath – was built in 1231 by two brothers. The door casings, friezes, architraves, pillars, the sculptures of porticos, are again astonishing in their workmanship. The most striking feature of this Jain temple built in the Solanki style of architecture is the marble pendant in the dome of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like an enchanting cluster of half-open lotuses with cups so finely carved that they appear to be transparent.
Relaxing
The temples themselves are very relaxing but after your visit head back into town. As a popular holiday spot for Indian travellers Mt Abu has plenty of good quality restaurants and there are also several decent cafes to enjoy.
Getting Around
The temples can be reached on foot or by taxi/auto rickshaw from Mt Abu town.
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