Renowned
for its marvelously carved temples in amber stone, Ranakpur is one of the
finve holy spots of the Jains. Rana Kumbha of Mewar gave the land in a grant
to the Jains. These 15th century temples are fine examples of man's devotion
to his deity, nestling in the aravalli hills and rising three stories the
main temple is supported on 1,444 exquisitely carved pillars, each distinct
from the other. The entire temple including its ceilings and arches is
sculpted with arabesques, motifs and statues. The remarkable marble plaque
of Lord Parashwanath, a jain deity is finely detailed.
Other
temples nearby have sensouous carvings reminiscent of Khajuraho. The Sun
Temple is richly embellished with carvings of warriors. Horses and solar
deities riding chariots.
No wonder that Ranakpur is popular with
those interested in architecture and history.
