Dilwara Temple

Dilwara Temple is a complex of Jain temples near Mount Abu in Rajasthan, India, renowned for its marble architecture and intricate stone carving. The principal temples were constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries CE.

The complex comprises five principal temples arranged on a granite ridge, with richly carved pillars, ceilings and screens made from white marble. Two of the best-known shrines are Vimal Vasahi (11th century) and Luna Vasahi (13th century), each featuring intricately carved domes and decorative panels.

Patronized by wealthy Jain patrons and local rulers between the 11th and 13th centuries, the temples were built as places of worship and pilgrimage for the Svetambara Jain community. Over the centuries the site has been maintained as a religious complex and preserved for its architectural and sculptural significance.

The temples sit on a rocky outcrop near Mount Abu in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, in western India, within easy reach of the hill station that serves as the nearest town.

• Marble interiors and protocol: Interiors are carved from white marble; visitors are required to remove shoes before entering the temple complexes.
• Photography and best time: Photography is allowed in most outdoor areas but restricted inside some sanctums and during puja; early mornings are quieter for viewing the carvings.

What to See #

• Temple group: Group of five principal marble Jain temples clustered on a granite outcrop near Mount Abu, each with its own shrine and porch and known for extremely fine carved marble work.
• Vimal Vasahi: Vimal Vasahi (11th century) - the earliest major temple in the complex, dedicated to Rishabhadev (Adinath).
• Luna Vasahi: Luna Vasahi (13th century) - built by the ministerial patrons Tejapala and Vastupala, noted for highly detailed ceiling and pillar carvings.
• Other temples: Other temples in the complex - including Pithalhar, Khartar Vasahi and Parshvanath - each feature carved domes, pillars and sculpted panels.