35 ~ Ranakpur Temples
Day 9 : “Selfie, selfie” the call went out
25.12.2018 - 25.12.2018
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India 18 - 19
on bruceontour's travel map.
After breakfast was the drive through to Udaipur.
Pass a celebration of some sort so it was a short stop. Being the only non-local, I stood out like a sore thumb as the procession pass. “Selfie, selfie” the call went out. Again I was asked by the locals to have their photo taken with them. Why me?
Not too sure what this procession is for. But the guy on the horse looks like that he may be a politician or related to a party celebrating the win after polls. The badge he carries are commonly used for special occasions such as political procession from a specific party.
Three hours after leaving Luni, reached Ranakpur Temples. Non-Jains can enter the temple from 12 noon / 12:00 to 5pm / 17:00 so there was no point in leaving Luni really early today. Mornings are reserved for prayers.
Renowned for marvellously carved “Ranakpur Jain temples” in amber stone is one of the five holy places of the Jain community. These temples were created in the 15th century AD during the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a wall. The central Chaumukha or four faced temple is dedicated to the venerated Tirthankara Rishabhji. Open on all four sides, it enshrines the four faced image of Adinath.
Here is the link to Tripsavvy:
Jain temples are known to be the most elaborate in India, and the temple complex at Ranakpur is absolutely astonishing. Dedicated to the first Tirthankar (savior and spiritual teacher) who founded Jainism, it's the country's biggest and most important Jain temple complex. The main temple, Chaumukha Mandir, is made out of white marble and was built in the 15th century. It has sprawling over 48,000 feet 29 halls, 80 domes, and 1,444 engraved pillars! Allow about an hour to see the temple complex. Conservative dress is required for both men and women (legs and shoulders covered). Leather items (including belts), shoes, food, and cigarettes are not permitted inside. Women who are menstruating are considered to be unclean and shouldn't go in either.
https://www.tripsavvy.com/interesting-places-near-udaipur-1539757
"I can see what you are doing ..."
Spent just over an hour here. Actually, it was the smaller temple outside without the tourists that caught my eye. I suppose that it was the bright sun as well that helped casting shadows on the columns.
A short way along the windy mountain like road, so unlike the previous days of flat desert, it was time for Ashok’s lunch break at Casa En Ranakpur.
Leaving at 2.30pm / 14:30, it was just after 4pm / 16:00 when we drove into Udaipur.
Posted by bruceontour 01:29 Archived in India Tagged ranakpur jain_temple Comments (0)