The Temple complex includes two temples with exquisite marble carvings. The older of the temples is the Vimal Vasahi, built in 1031 by a Gujrati minister named Vimal. It is dedicated to the first tirthankar (Jain Teacher), Adinath. The central shrine contains an image of Adinath, while around the courtyard are 57 identical cells, each with a Budhdha like cross-legged image. Forty eight elegantly carved pillars from the entrance to the courtyard. In front of the temple stands the House of Elephants, with figures of elephants marching in procession to the temple.

The later Tejpal Temple is dedicated to Neminath, the 22nd tirthankar, and was built in1231 by the brothers Tejpal and Vastupal. Like Vimal, they were ministers in the government of the ruler of Gujarat. Although the Tejpal temple is important as an extremely old and complete example of Jain temple, its most notable feature is the intricacy and delicacy of the marble carving. It is so fine that, in places, the marble becomes almost transparent. In particular the lotus flower that hangs from the center of the dome is an incredible piece of work. It is difficult to believe that the huge lacelike filigree started as a solid block of marble. The temple employs several full-time stone carvers to maintain and restore the work.

Perhaps the most outstanding feature of Jain temple architecture is its carvings. and that is an understatement. Wherever one looks, be it pillars, ceilings, walls and floors, Jain temples go to the extreme – and beyond it – when it comes to adorning their temples with the very stone they work with. Jain mythology, saints, gods and goddesses, monks, devotees or just good old religious motifs all find their way in a spectacular rendezvous in marble and rock. Each nook and corner of Jain temples are so diligently carved that it’s a wonder that the edifice was created out of plain stone. Carving is perhaps not the right word for Jain temples – chiselling would be more appropriate. Their fragile delicacy merged with an architectural lexicon is what constitues the basis of these amazing temples. Simply put, there is not an inch where one can place his hand and not encounter a spectacular frieze.


Reaching Dilwara Jain Temple-
By Air : Udaipur is the nearest airport. Daily flight form Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur are available to Udaipur.
By Rail : Abu Road is the nearest railway station and is about 22 kms from Mount Abu
By Road :Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe buses from Jaipur and Abu Road to Mount Abu.