Osian Temples

Osian was a prosperous trading town on the desert routes between the eighth and twelfth centuries, and around sixteen temples survive from that period, among the oldest standing temples in Rajasthan. The Mahavira Jain temple, of the eighth century with later additions, is the best preserved and still in worship, with carved doorways, a sculpted torana and an image of Mahavira said to be made of sand and milk. Hindu temples to Surya, Harihara and others stand in a group on a low ridge, their walls carved with figures. Sachiya Mata temple, higher up, is reached by a covered stair of arches.

Highlights

• The Mahavira Jain temple - eighth-century core with carved doorways and torana.
• The Hindu temple group - Surya and Harihara shrines on the ridge.
• Sachiya Mata - the hilltop temple approached by an arched stair.
• The desert setting - sand and scrub at the edge of the Thar.

When to go

October to March; the desert is severe from April to June. Mornings give the best light on the carving. Camel safaris and desert camps operate from the village.

Practical notes

Several temples are weathered or ruined and unlabelled. The village is small with limited facilities. Desert camps here are heavily commercialised.

Nearby

Jodhpur lies south; Jaisalmer is west.