The Jaisalmer Fort complex is home to several Jain temples. There are seven of these temples, each with awe-inspiring beauty. The temples, which have frescoes, mirrors, and other types of ornamentation, have excellent patterns, with the walls covered with human and animal images in the manner of Dilwara temples. If you visit Rajasthan, you should tour these Jain temples in Jaisalmer. They are all made of yellow sandstone and appear stunning at sunset and early daybreak. These temples stand out for their stunning architecture and rich craftsmanship.
About The Jain Temples In Jaisalmer
There are a total of seven Jain Temples in Jaisalmer Fort. Each temple has unique architecture and is dedicated to a different Tirthankara. Let us take a closer look at each of these beautiful temples.
1. Shitalnath Temple
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Shitalnath Temple is one of the most significant Jain temples, built in the 16th century, and is considered one of Jaisalmer’s oldest temples. This temple is dedicated to Shitalnath, the 10th Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. Shitalnath was the 10 (tenth) Jain Tirthankara, and this temple has a beautiful idol of Shitalnath. This temple looks small compared to the other temples in Jaisalmer Fort, but it has the same delicately carved pillars with sculptures carved out of stone. The idol is made of eight precious metals. You will find temple architecture similar to the Dilwara temples near Mount Abu.
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
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2. Kunthunath Temple
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Dedicated to the 17th Tirthankara, Kunthunath Temple boasts a beautiful interior with intricate carvings and stunning artwork that is sure to leave visitors in awe. The temple’s architecture is also noteworthy, with its unique Hindu and Jain styles blend. It is believed to have been built in the 15th century. Kunthunatha was the 17th (seventeenth) Jain Tirthankara, and this temple inside Jaisalmer Fort is dedicated to him. The temple is majestic in structure, and the beautifully carved marble idol of Kunthunatha is also quite soothing to look at. You will find exciting carvings that depict stories from Jain mythology, and finely sculpted idols of male and female dancers, apsaras, and musicians in dancing poses and meditating poses. There are sculptures of elephants and carved pillars inside this temple.
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
3. Parshvanath Temple
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Another Jain temple inside Jaisalmer Fort is Parsvanatha Jain Temple. Parsvanatha was the 23rd-century Jain Tirthankara, and this temple is dedicated to him. The arched torans between the pillars, with their incredible architectural beauty will mesmerize you once you enter this temple & the symmetrical designs of the pillars, and the ornate sculptures on them are breathtaking thing sight to see in this temple. But its mandapa or the inner dome will amaze you even more with its delicate craftsmanship. Walk through the corridors between the pillars and you go to the different parts of this temple and observe every minute detail of carvings that is everywhere in the temple. The marble-sculpted idol of Parsvanatha with its hooded serpent is an eye-catching sight.
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
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4. Rishabhdev Temple
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Rishabhdev was the first of the Jain Tirthankaras, and this temple in Jaisalmer Fort is dedicated to him. On the outside, the temple is a striking monument, with a tall shikhara and impressive carved pillars. This temple is also inside the Jaisalmer Fort and as soon as you enter, a few steps will lead you to the inner sanctum, where huge pillars are carved with extremely delicate sculptures. The marble idol of Rishabhdev is surrounded by the most amazing carvings on a marble stone. There are a lot of other carved idols of Jain Tirthankaras. There are corridors through which you can walk and explore the other parts of this temple.
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
5. Sambhavnath Temple
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Dedicated to the 3rd Tirthankara, Lord Sambhavnath – the third Jain Tirthankara, Sambhavnath temple was built in the 16th century by a wealthy Jain merchant named Fateh Chand Kothari. The temple is a fine example of the intricate and exquisite Rajputana architecture. The third (3rd) Jain Tirthankara, Sambhavnath, is this Jain temple’s main deity inside Jaisalmer Golden Fort. The intricately carved pillars & the main idol of Sambhavnath Jain Temple are finely sculpted, & the fine torana designs connecting the pillars are also breathtaking. In the basement of this temple, there is an ancient library which has many original manuscripts of the Jain religion dating back to the 11th century. You will also find illustrations, charts, books, and other rare artefacts.
Timings : 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees : Free Entry
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6. Chandraprabhu Temple
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Chandraprabhu Jain Temple is inside the Jaisalmer Fort & was made in the year 1509 AD. It is dedicated to the 8th (eighth) Jain Tirthankara Chandraprabhu. The Rajput architecture of this temple can be seen in its elaborately carved mandapa and pillars & the dome from the inside of this temple is finely carved with delicate sculptures. There are walkways through which you can go to the upper levels of this temple, and explore the carvings from a close distance. The carved idol of Chandraprabhu is made of pure marble, and there are innumerable sculptures of apsaras (nymphs), elephants and other characters from Jain mythology carved in the pillars of the temple. Beautiful corridors will lead you to the inner parts of this temple, and there are courtyards with intricately designed stonework. It is believed to have been built in the 15th century. The temple’s serene atmosphere provides a respite from the chaos of the outside world, and visitors often leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
7. Shantinath Temple
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Dedicated to the 16th Tirthankara, Shantinath Temple is known for its beautiful carvings and intricate designs. It is believed to have been built in the 16th century. Built in the 16th century, the temple is known for its intricate architecture, elegant design, and vibrant colours. The temple features a spacious courtyard surrounded by beautifully crafted pillars and arches. Shantinath Jain Temple is also inside Jaisalmer Fort, and it was built in the year 1536. Shantinath was the 16th (sixteenth) Jain Tirthankara, and his idol is beautifully carved out of marble and you can find it in the inner sanctum of this temple. Like in other temples, here too, are delicate sculptures of elephants and other mythical creatures, male and female dancers and apsaras, and intricately carved out pillars. You can reach this temple through Parsvanatha or Kunthunatha Jain temples & you will also find idols of all the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras inside this temple
Timings: 8 AM to 12 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
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These Jain temples in Jaisalmer are architectural wonders in their own right, making for a compelling visit. To top it off, the Astapadhi Temples are located in the same complex, which adds to a tranquil experience. Each of these temples is an actual work of art and a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of the time. They are not just critical religious sites but also important historical sites. So plan a trip to Jaisalmer and prepare to go to a place where you might forget about your usual busy day.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Jain Temples In Jaisalmer
When were these temples built?
Most of the Jain temples in Jaisalmer were constructed between the 12th and 15th centuries CE. This period marked the height of Jain's influence and prosperity in the region.
What architectural style do they feature?
The temples showcase intricate Dilwara-style architecture. This style is characterized by ornate carvings and detailed stonework.
Are the temples still active places of worship?
Yes, the Jain temples in Jaisalmer remain active sites for worship. They continue to host regular rituals and ceremonies for the Jain community.
Can non-Jains visit the temples?
Generally, non-Jains are allowed to visit the temples. However, modest dress is required and some inner sanctums may be restricted.
What are some notable features of these temples?
The temples are known for their intricate marble carvings and detailed sculptures. Geometric patterns and ornate designs are also hallmarks of these structures.
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