Ranakpur Jain Temple

The Chaumukha temple at Ranakpur was begun in the fifteenth century under the patronage of a merchant with land granted by Rana Kumbha, dedicated to Adinatha, and built in pale marble on a plan open on four sides so the central image faces each direction. Its distinguishing feature is the forest of pillars, counted at 1,444, carved individually so that no two match, supporting domed ceilings worked into concentric bands of figures and foliage so fine the stone appears translucent in places. The temple sits in a valley of the Aravallis with forest around it, and smaller Jain and Sun temples stand nearby.

What to look for

• The 1,444 pillars - individually carved supports, none repeated.
• The domed ceilings - concentric carved bands over the halls.
• The four-faced image - the central Adinatha open to all directions.
• The valley setting - Aravalli forest around the marble complex.

When to go

October to March; the temple is open to non-worshippers only for set hours in the middle of the day, usually from around midday to five, with mornings reserved for worship.

Things to know

Visiting hours for non-worshippers are restricted and short. Leather items, including belts and bags, are prohibited inside. Photography is charged and restricted in places.

Nearby

Kumbhalgarh fort lies northeast; Udaipur is south.

Key facts