The Chaturmukha (four-faced) temple at Ranakpur is dedicated to Adinath, the first Tirthankara. It was built in the 15th century by the merchant Dharna Shah, with support from Rana Kumbha of Mewar, whose name the village carries. It stands in a quiet valley in Pali district, about 90 km from Udaipur.
The temple is built of pale marble on a raised platform, with four entrances, numerous domes and halls, and a forest of carved pillars traditionally counted at 1,444, no two said to be alike. It remains an active place of worship.
Quick answer
The Ranakpur Jain Temple is in Pali district, Rajasthan, about 90 km (two and a half hours) from Udaipur and about 170 km from Jodhpur. It is a 15th-century temple to Adinath, famous for its carved marble pillars, traditionally numbered at 1,444. Non-Jain visitors are usually admitted in the afternoon; leather, food and photography of idols are restricted. October to March is the best time.
Key takeaways
- Ranakpur is about 90 km from Udaipur and 170 km from Jodhpur.
- The 15th-century temple to Adinath has a pillared marble interior, traditionally counted at 1,444 pillars.
- Non-Jain visitors are usually allowed in during the afternoon; check the current hours.
- Leather items and food are not allowed inside.
- Combine it with Kumbhalgarh Fort, about 50 km away.
The temple
The temple's plan is symmetrical, with four entrances facing the four directions and a central shrine holding four images of Adinath. Halls, domes and small shrines open onto each other, so light and views change as you walk.
Look for the carved ceilings, the rows of pillars, and a slab carved with a many-headed serpent. Smaller temples to Neminath and Parshvanath and a Sun temple stand nearby.
At a glance
Key facts for visitors.
- Location
- Ranakpur, Pali district, Rajasthan
- Built
- 15th century
- Dedicated to
- Adinath (Rishabhanatha)
- From Udaipur
- About 90 km
Visiting rules
- The temple is open to Jain worshippers from the morning; non-Jain visitors are usually admitted from around midday to late afternoon. Check current hours locally.
- Leather items (belts, bags, wallets, shoes) and food are not allowed inside.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
- Cameras may need a ticket, and photography of the main images is not allowed.
- Other rules are posted at the entrance; follow them and the staff's directions.
How to reach and where to stay
- From Udaipur: about 90 km, around two and a half hours by road through the Aravalli hills.
- From Jodhpur: about 170 km, around three and a half hours.
- Nearest railway stations: Falna and Rani, about 35 to 40 km away.
- Stay: a few resorts and the temple trust's dharamshala near the temple; more choice in Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh or Sadri.
Combine it with
Kumbhalgarh
A huge hill fort with 36 km of walls, about 50 km away, often visited on the same day from Udaipur.
A day trip from Udaipur
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 8 am | Leave Udaipur for Kumbhalgarh |
| 10 am to 12:30 pm | Kumbhalgarh Fort and its walls |
| 1:30 pm | Reach Ranakpur; lunch |
| 2 to 4 pm | Ranakpur temple during non-Jain visiting hours |
| 4:30 pm | Drive back to Udaipur |
What to look for
- The central sanctum with four images of Adinath, facing the four directions.
- Ceilings carved as concentric rings and hanging pendants, especially in the domed halls.
- The slab with a many-headed serpent (Parshvanath) carved in intricate knots.
- A pillar that, by tradition, leans slightly or was left unfinished; ask the priests to show you.
- The views across the pillared halls from the upper levels.
An audio guide is usually available at the ticket counter; guides also offer short tours.
When to visit
October to March is pleasant for the drive and the visit. The monsoon (July to September) turns the Aravalli valley green, and the temple looks beautiful in soft light, though roads can be slow after heavy rain. Summer afternoons are very hot, and the marble floors warm up quickly; socks help.
Safety
- Follow the temple's rules on leather, food, dress and photography.
- The hill road from Udaipur is winding; avoid driving it after dark.
- Carry water; there are limited shops near the temple.
What to pack
- Non-leather belt, bag and wallet
- Modest clothing
- Socks for the marble floors in winter
- Water
Want this pilgrimage turned into a practical itinerary?
FAQs
How far is Ranakpur from Udaipur?
About 90 km, or two and a half hours by road.
How many pillars does the Ranakpur temple have?
It is traditionally described as having 1,444 carved pillars.
What are the visiting hours at Ranakpur for tourists?
Non-Jain visitors are usually admitted from around midday to late afternoon; check current timings locally.
Is photography allowed at Ranakpur?
Photography inside may need a camera ticket, and photographing the main images is not allowed.
Who built the Ranakpur temple?
It was built in the 15th century by the merchant Dharna Shah, with the support of Rana Kumbha of Mewar.
Can I visit Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh on the same day?
Yes. They are about 50 km apart and are often combined on a day trip from Udaipur.
