The Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu

Located 2 km from Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan Dilwara temples were built in the 12th AD by the Royal Indian Chalukya Dynasty.

The Chalukyan architecture is famous for its unique marble work. The Dilwara temple constitutes of five temples and each temple exhibits some fabulous artwork and minute detailing.


The temples are made of marble stone with luxurious entrance and huge ornamental framework. The temples in general manifest the Jain values and tradition in the way by reflecting pure simplicity along with genuine soberness.


The temples are open free for public viewing from 12 pm to 3 pm. A sacred pilgrimage center for Jains, Dilwara temples rests amidst the spellbinding beauty of the green hilly surroundings.

Though the temples create an impression of being simple and basic from outside, the interiors of the temple exhibit some remarkable and legendary artistry. The ornamental detailing of the marble stone on pillars is beyond words. More attention is been given to the ceilings which are sophisticatedly carved.

These five temples of Dilwara are dedicated to the five Jain Tirthankararas. The five temples of Dilwara include:

1. Vimal Vasahi Temple – Vimal Vasahi Temple or also referred as the Adinath Temple, is dedicated to the first thirthankara- Shri Adinathji. This is one the main temples at Diwara, and holds a great importance.


The temple has a magnificent patio, with many compartments consisting of small idols of the thirthankaras. This temple has a massive hall, sustained by 12 pillars, minutely carved.

2. Luna Vasahi Temple- Dedicated to the 22nd Jain Tirthankara Shri Neminathji, this gorgeous temple is said to have been built in the year 1230. This temple is famous for the huge, magnificent dome which dangles in form of a beautiful pendant wore to the temple. The ten beautifully sculpted marble elephants add beauty to the existing structure.



3. Pittalhar Temple – This temple is dedicated to the Jain thirthankara, Shri Rishabdaoji, and the temple is named because of the presence of the brass statues all over the temple.


4. Parshvanatha Temple – This temple is been dedicated to the 23rd Jain thirthankar Shri Parshvanathji, and was built in the year 1458.

This temple is the tallest of all the Dilwara temples, due to its three storey structure. Few of the marble carvings and sculptors of this temple reminds of the artifacts present in the Khajuraho temple.

5. Mahavir Swami Temple – Dedicated to the 24th Thirtankara, Shri Mahaveerji, this temple is one of the smallest of all the Dilwara temples. But one can see some great artwork on the temple's upper walls, and it is said that this temple was built in the year 1764.