Palitana Jain Temple

PALITANA is one of the India’s most pilgrim centers. The 600-metre climb to Shatrunjaya is usually on foot. Lift chairs (Dolly’s) are also available. Mount Shatrunjaya hardly a kilometer away from the town, which on both sides by minor temples, include museums. The mountain is associated with Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, also known as Adinath. Palitana site is scared to Jains who believe to lord Adinath.

There are superb views in all directions. The temple was built in different periods but most of them follow a similar architectural style of shikhara or towers on the rooftop and shrines open on four side. Temples are the Adishvara which is said to have been built in the 12th century but renovated twice since with a tall shikhara made up of many small towers. The three storey vimala sah temple built in the 14th century with the statue towering over all three floors and the motisah temple of the 19th century. On Shatrunjaya hill around 3500 steps are there. A photography permit is available in front of the main entrance. The museum located 400 meter before the start of the steps at the bottom of the hill, displays a collection of Jain arte facts.