About Delwara Jain Temples
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.
There are three other temples in the enclosure, but they are pale
beside the Tejpal temple and Vimal Vasahi.
General Tips
- Shoes and all leather articles should be left at the entrance.
- Photography is not allowed.
Pictures of Delwara Jain Temple
