Top 8 Places To Visit In Ranakpur, located in the foothills of the mighty Aravalli Ranges in Rajasthan is one of the most sought-after pilgrimage destinations in the state. This small town is popularly also known as the town of temples and holds a special significance for Jains. Located around 96 km from Udaipur, the sights and sounds of Ranakpur can be easily covered within two to three days.
One of the primary reasons why Ranakpur holds a special place for Jains is because it is believed that the then ruler Rana Kumbha after whom the town is named had gifted some land to a rich businessman and he got a huge Jain temple constructed. Till date, Jains from all over the world throng to this stunning Jain Temple in Ranakpur. Apart from the main Jain temple, there are few other places and temples also worth visiting in Ranakpur Tour Packages.
Read on to find out the best places that one should definitely not miss out while they are touring Ranakpur Tourism.
Ranakpur Jain Temple
Nothing offers more peace of mind than visiting a temple to seek blessings from god and spending time feeling grateful to god. In Jainism, Ranakpur Jain Temple holds significant importance as it is one of the 5 major centres of Jainism. Spread over 4500 square yards with around 29 halls, this majestic temple is truly an architectural marvel that everyone needs to see in their life.
The architecture, its tiny details, and each carved stone and column are unique and all have different designs. Another unique part is that there are numerous columns whose colour keeps on changing from golden to pale blue after each hour. So, to witness the glory, you must visit this temple, Top 8 Places To Visit In Ranakpur.
Surya Narayan Temple
A great religious place where a large number of devotees visit daily to offer prayers and to feel the divine energy. The temple displays Lord Surya riding a chariot and being surrounded by seven horses. Also, the temple is adorned with stunning murals on the walls, each having different designs showcasing art. You can also visit Amba Mata temple located near the Surya Narayan Temple.
Ranakpur Dam
If you are in the mood of spending some alone moments with your family or enjoying a picnic with your dear ones, this place can be your ideal choice. Listen to gushing water while admiring amazings views of the entire city. The best time to visit is early morning when no one is around and you can enjoy the peaceful ambience and natural vibes this place has to offer, Top 8 Places To Visit In Ranakpur.
Mucchal Mahavir Temple
Another gem of Ranakpur is popular for its amazing architecture and the fact that the statue of Lord Mahavir is seen as having a moustache. It is located in the Kumbal Sanctuary which offers serenity and tranquillity making it a very good location to explore. Keep yourself free and don’t miss your chance to explore the sanctuary as well.
Moreover, at the entrance of Mahavir Temple, you will see two sculptures of elephants standing in a guarding position. This is one of the best temples to visit in Ranakpur which should be on your itinerary as well if you are searching for some spiritual experiences, Top 8 Places To Visit In Ranakpur.
Sun Temple Lohargal
The ancient Sun Temple is part of the Jain temple complex but was constructed almost two hundred years before the main temple. It did undergo serious damage and had to be rebuilt during the 15th century. The building is made of white limestone and has an architectural style understandably different from the Chaumukha Temple. The inner sanctum and the surrounding structure constitute the heart of the temple. The sculptures of the sun god guarding the sanctum explain the name of the temple. The pillars at this temple are also worth noting.
Desuri
Desuri is a small town located about 25 km from Ranakpur. It is another town which is popular among Hindu pilgrims. Visitors to Desuri can visit three of the most important temples which are each dedicated to Lord Shiva, Hanuman, and Navi Mata. You must also visit the Gajanand temple which has life size statues of goddess Riddhi and goddess Siddhi. Another temple worth visiting is the one dedicated to Parsuram Mahadeo Top 8 Places To Visit In Ranakpur.
Narlai
Narlai is another popular destination situated about 6 km from Ranakpur which is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples. Situated within the heart of the Aravalli Ranges and surrounded by breathtaking greenery, visitors to Narlai can spend their time exploring some of the ancient monuments as well as the various temples.
This small village holds a special importance for Jain pilgrims as there is a Jain Temple here which is dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankara. The walls of the temple are beautifully decorated with mural paintings and stunning architecture.
Narlai also has a number of heritage hotels which serve not just as the perfect accommodation but also depict the true culture and tradition of the place.
Ranakpur Jungle Safari
If you are an adventure junkie, then you must definitely not miss out on visiting the Ranakpur Jungle Safari. Guided by professionals, this jungle safari is a great way to explore the rich flora, fauna, and landscape of Ranakpur.
The safari offers you ample opportunities to click some amazing pictures which will make your trip all the more enjoyable and memorable. This two-hour long safari will take you through dense forest, water streams, beautiful valleys, and steep hills.
Best Time to Visit
Lying in the tropical climatic zone, Ranakpur experiences typical hot and dry summers. The maximum temperature during the season rises up to 42 degrees Celsius resulting in scorching heat. Monsoon receives scanty rainfalls but drops in temperature are observed. October to March however is the best time to visit Ranakpur.
How to Reach
» Air: The nearest airport is the Dabok Airport in Udaipur that is 110 km away.
» Rail: Falna, which is 35 km away, is the nearest railhead, which is on the Delhi- Ahmedabad sector.
» Road: A network of buses run from Ranakpur to nearby places. Besides, four daily deluxe buses connect Udaipur with Ranakpur. You can also hire cabs from Udaipur. To commute locally you can easily find a number of un-metered auto- rickshaws and cycle rickshaws.
