Dilwara Temples (Mount Abu)

The Dilwara temples, about two and a half kilometres from Mount Abu, are among the most finely carved temples in India and one of the most important places of pilgrimage for Jains. They were built in white marble between the 11th and 13th centuries.

The five temples

• Vimal Vasahi, the oldest, was built in 1031 by Vimal Shah and is dedicated to Bhagwan Adinath, the first Tirthankar.
• Luna Vasahi was built in 1230 by the brothers Vastupal and Tejpal and is dedicated to Bhagwan Neminath.
• Pittalhar is dedicated to Bhagwan Rishabhdev and is known for its large metal image.
• Parshvanath temple is the tallest of the group.
• Mahavir Swami temple is the smallest and the most recent.

What to see

From outside the temples look plain. Inside, the ceilings, pillars and doorways are covered with marble carving so fine that it looks like lace. The domed ceiling of Luna Vasahi, with its hanging marble pendant, is the best known.

Visiting

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan. The nearest railway station is Abu Road, about 28 km away. Visitors who are not Jain are usually admitted in the afternoon, and photography is not allowed inside. Please check the timings locally before you go.