Mulnayak Idol – Exquisite Black Stone Idol of Parshwanath
The temple houses a 48 cm tall black-colored idol of Bhagwan Ranakpur Parshwanath in Padmasana posture, adorned with a beautifully carved Parrikar (backrest carving). A seven-hooded serpent canopy rests above the idol, making it a true masterpiece of Jain artistry.
Ranakpur Jain Temple – Location & Natural Beauty
- The Ranakpur temple complex is situated in Ranakpur village, Pali district, Rajasthan.
- Nestled in a serene valley of the Aravalli Hills, the temple is surrounded by lush forests near the Maghai river.
- The solitude and natural setting of the temple create a peaceful and meditative environment for devotees.
Historical Significance – Ancient Jain Legacy of Ranakpur
- The temple is linked to Acharya Somsundarsuriji, a revered Jain monk of the 15th century Vikram Samvat.
- Shresthi Dharnashah, a devoted Jain minister of King Rana Kumbha, envisioned and built this temple.
- Inspired by a divine vision of “Nalini Gulm Viman”, Dharnashah wanted to replicate the celestial abode of Devas.
- With permission from Rana Kumbha, he established the village of Ranpur (later Ranakpur) and began temple construction.
- The foundation stone was laid in Vikram Samvat 1433 (1376 AD).
Ranakpur Adinath Temple – The World-Famous Chaturmukha Temple
- The three-storeyed Chaturmukha Temple was built with a unique architectural style.
- It has 1444 intricately carved marble pillars, each uniquely designed.
- The temple’s design ensures that Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath)’s idol can be seen from any corner without obstruction.
- The temple is also known as:
- Dharan Vihar
- Trailokya Deepak Prasad
- Tribhuvan Vihar
- Nalini Gulm Viman
- Chaturmukha Prasad
Ranakpur Parshwanath Temple – The Hidden Gem of Ranakpur
- While constructing the Adinath temple, artisans used their leisure time and extra materials to build a separate temple for Bhagwan Parshwanath.
- The idol of Parshwanath was installed in the 15th century, and this temple became known as Ranakpur Parshwanath Jain Temple.
Annual Jain Festivals & Celebrations at Ranakpur
- Grand fairs and religious events are held every year on:
- Kartik Purnima (Full Moon in Kartik month)
- Phalgun Purnima (Full Moon in Phalgun month)
- Chaitra Purnima (Full Moon in Chaitra month)
Other Temples in Ranakpur – A Jain Spiritual Hub
- Apart from Ranakpur Parshwanath Temple, the complex includes:
- The grand Adinath (Rishabhdev) Temple
- Bhagwan Neminath Temple
- Sun Temple
- Chakreshwaridevi Temple
Architectural Marvel – Ranakpur Jain Temple’s Artistic Grandeur
- A unique blend of nature and architecture – the temple is in perfect harmony with the surrounding Aravalli Hills.
- The ceilings have intricately carved “one head with five bodies” figures, a rare sculptural masterpiece.
- The Samavasaran (divine preaching hall) of Bhagwan Mahavir is beautifully sculpted in marble.
- The Harassment of Bhagwan Parshwanath by Kamath is intricately depicted in a single stone carving.
- The 16 female snakes helping the male snakes to protect Bhagwan Parshwanath is an extraordinary carving.
- A metal bell system creates a sound that reaches up to 3 miles, producing a deep Om vibration.
- The Rayan tree, planted by Dharnashah over 500 years ago, still stands in the temple complex.
- The temple remains naturally cool in summer and warm in winter, thanks to its unique construction.
How to Reach Ranakpur Parshwanath Jain Temple
- By Rail:
- Falna Railway Station – 35 km
- Sadadi – 10 km
- By Air:
- Udaipur Airport – 90 km
- Jodhpur Airport – 170 km
- By Road:
- Well-connected by buses and private vehicles from Udaipur, Mount Abu, Jalore, and Nakoda.
Accommodation & Facilities at Ranakpur
- Dharamshalas (lodging) and Bhojanshalas (food) available for Jain pilgrims.
- Guest houses with modern amenities are also available near the temple.
Scriptural Mentions of Ranakpur Jain Temples
The Ranakpur Jain temples are referenced in various Jain scriptures, including:
- “Ranigpur Chaturmukh Prasad Stavan”
- “Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chaand”
- “Tirth Mala”
- “108 Naamgarbhit Shri Godiji Parshvanath Stavan”
- “Shri Hirvijaysuri Raas”
- “Tirthmala Stavan”
- “108 Naamgarbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan”
- “135 Naamgarbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan”
- “Ranakpur Tirth Stavan”
- “Som Sowbhagya Kavya” beautifully narrates the history of the temple.
Temple Trust Information – Shri Ranakpur Parshwanath Jain Tirth
Managed by: Sheth Shri Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi
- Location: Post: Ranakpur – 306702, District: Pali, Station: Falna, Rajasthan, India
FAQs About Ranakpur Parshwanath Jain Temple
1. Why is the Ranakpur Parshwanath Temple famous?
This temple is an architectural wonder built in the 15th century, known for its exquisite carvings and historical significance.
2. When was the Ranakpur Jain Temple built?
The foundation stone was laid in Vikram Samvat 1433 (1376 AD), and construction continued for many years.
3. How many pillars are there in the Ranakpur Adinath Temple?
There are 1444 intricately carved marble pillars, each with a unique design.
4. How can I reach Ranakpur Parshwanath Jain Temple?
The temple is 35 km from Falna Railway Station, 90 km from Udaipur Airport, and well-connected by road.
5. What festivals are celebrated at Ranakpur Temple?
Major Jain festivals like Kartik Purnima, Phalgun Purnima, and Chaitra Purnima are celebrated here.
6. Are food and accommodation available near the temple?
Yes, Dharamshalas, Bhojanshalas, and guest houses with modern facilities are available.
Explore More: 108 Parshwanath Names List
For a comprehensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.
