The marble temple at Ranakpur
The temple was begun in the 1430s by Dharna Shah, a Jain merchant, with the support of Rana Kumbha, and is dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankara. Its plan is four-faced, with four entrances leading to a central shrine, and its interior is a forest of carved marble pillars, said to number about 1,444, each with different carvings.
Light falls through the domes and openings, changing through the day and giving the marble a soft glow. Look for the carved ceilings with dancers and musicians, the elephant figures and the panel showing Parshvanatha with a canopy of snakes. An audio guide is often included in the ticket.
The temple is an active place of worship. Non-Jain visitors are usually admitted in the afternoon, from about midday, and must remove shoes and leave leather items and food outside. Modest dress is required. Check current status of visiting hours before you travel. We visit on the drive between Kumbhalgarh and Jodhpur or Udaipur.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
What are the visiting hours of Ranakpur Jain temple
Non-Jain visitors are usually admitted from around midday until late afternoon, with mornings reserved for worship. Times change, so check current status before you travel. Plan to arrive soon after opening. We time the drive from Kumbhalgarh, about 50 km and 1.25 hours, so you reach the temple as it opens and have unhurried time inside before driving on.
How many pillars are in Ranakpur temple
Traditionally about 1,444 carved marble pillars, each said to be different. The number is a key part of the temple's fame, and the pillars create a sense of endless space inside. The temple was begun in the 1430s by the Jain merchant Dharna Shah and is dedicated to Adinath. Look up as well as around: the carved ceilings show dancers and musicians.
What should I wear to Ranakpur temple
Clothes covering shoulders and knees. Shoes, leather items such as belts and wallets, and food must be left outside. Women may be asked to observe rules during menstruation. Shawls are sometimes available at the entrance. Bring a light scarf or shawl, and leave belts, wallets and bags in the car with your driver while you are inside. The temple is an active place of worship.
Also in Kumbhalgarh
More hours to plan around
