Ranakpur Jain Temple
रणकपुर जैन मंदिर
A 15th-century Jain temple of white marble, with 1,444 intricately carved pillars, none of them alike. It is considered one of the most exquisite temples in India.
Ranakpur Temple (Chaumukha Mandir) was built in the 15th century and is dedicated to Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara. It was constructed by the merchant Dharna Shah with support from Rana Kumbha. It lies in a forest in the Aravalli valley, about 90 km from Udaipur. The entire temple is built of light-coloured marble and is symmetrical on all four sides. Inside, 1,444 stone pillars support it, and it is said that no two carved alike. Lotus flowers and dancing figures on the ceiling spiral in layers, and light falling through the pillars casts shifting shadows. Non-Jain visitors are generally admitted from noon to dusk. Admission includes an audio guide. Shoes must be removed before entering. Leather items such as belts and bags are not allowed inside and must be left in storage. Women who are menstruating should not enter, according to temple rules. Visitors must dress to cover their shoulders and knees. It is usually combined with Kumbhalgarh Fort as a day trip.
Opening hours
Approx. 12:00–17:00 for non-Jains
Nearby sights
- Kumbhalgarh Fort
- Haldighati
- Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara
- Statue of Belief (Vishwas Swaroopam)
- Eklingji Temple
- Sas-Bahu Temples, Nagda
- Badi Lake
- Shilpgram