Question 1

Which are the best places to visit in Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

1. Ranakpur Jain Temple: The magnificent Jain Temple is the main tourist attraction in Ranakpur.  Situated in the Pali district of Rajasthan, this is one of 5 major pilgrimage centres for Shwetambhara Jains.Spread over a vast area of 4,500 square yards, this temple features 29 elaborately decorated halls and a deity of the famous Tirthankara Rishabhanatha. This temple is also known as Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara. The colour changing columns change their colours from golden to pale blue as the day progresses and the light of the sun is reflected from various angles.Location: Desuri, Ranakpur Rd, Sadri, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday to Sunday (7:00 am – 7:00 pm).2. Surya Narayan Temple: The Surya Narayan temple is one of the most visited places in Ranakpur. This stone temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is visited by the devotees of Lord Surya Narayana.The main attraction inside the temple is the artistic murals featured in circular structures. The temple also features a sculpted idol of Lord Surya riding a chariot driven by seven horses. The Amba Mata Temple situated nearby is also extensively visited by devotees and tourists.Location: RJ SH 32, Ranakpur, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday to Sunday (6:00 am - 7:00 pm).3. Muchhal Mahavir Temple: The Muchhal Mahavir Temple is one of the best examples of Jain temple architecture. This temple is situated within the Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary, in the Pali District of Rajasthan. It is a marvellous temple that is dedicated to Lord Mahavir - an avatar of Lord Shiva.The temple also features two beautifully carved elephants that are placed in a guarding position at the entrance gate. You can also visit the Garasia Tribal Village located near the temple. This village is well known for its bright, colourful costumes and unique culture.Location: Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary, Pali District, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday- Sunday (6:00 am - 8:00 pm).4. Ranakpur Dam: One of the most serene and delightful places to visit in Ranakpur is the Ranakpur Dam. After exploring the village Ranakpur, you can come to this place and relax and unwind and watch a glorious sunset with your loved ones. This place is ideal for bird watching and a picturesque destination for avid photographers.Location: Near Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary In Sadri, Pali District, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday to Sunday (5:30 am - 6:30 pm).5. Sadri: Situated in the Pali district, the small town of Sadri is a popular tourist destination in Ranakpur. Sadri is known as a popular place of worship and is visited by Jain devotees all year round. The famous Jain Temple and Shri Parashuram Mahadev Mandir are situated in this region.The other major attractions are the Varaha Avatar Temple and Chintamani Parasnath Temple. Sadri has 14 other ancient Jain Temples which include the Shri Mahakali Temple and the Vokkal Mata Temple. The town used to be under the reign of the Sindhal Rathores and now it works as a gateway to Marwar from Mewar.Location: Pali District, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday to Sunday (8:00 am - 8:00 pm).6. Narlai: Narlai is a small village that has become a popular tourist destination situated at a distance of approximately 6 km from Ranakpur. This hamlet is known for its famous Hindu and Jain temples. The Jain temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, who, in the Jain faith, is known as the first Jain Tirthankara.This temple is a fine example of marvellous Jain-temple architecture. The walls of the temple are adorned with artistic murals depicting historical events. The other striking feature of Narlai is the number of deep wells dug in order to supply water to the locals.Location: Ranakpur, Rajasthan 306702, India.Timings: Monday to Sunday (8:00 am - 7:00 pm).

Question 2

Which are the famous temples in Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

1. Ranakpur Jain Temple: The Ranakpur Jain Temple, also known as the Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara, was built in the 15th century. Constructed with light-coloured marble, it is one of the finest examples of Jain-temple architecture. The majestic three-storeyed temple comprises 80 domes and 29 artistically decorated halls. It is dedicated to the famous Tirthankara Rishabhanatha.2. Muchhal Mahavir Temple: The Muchhal Mahavir Temple is situated near the Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary, in the Pali district of Rajasthan. Built in the 10th century, this famous temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavir. Here, the idol of Lord Mahavir is depicted with a moustache, which is unique and unheard of anywhere else. The temple also features two beautifully sculpted statues of elephants at the entrance.3. Surya Narayan Temple: The magnificent Surya Narayana Temple is believed to have been built in the 13th century and is dedicated to the Sun God. There is a famous sculpture depicting the Sun God riding a chariot pulled by 7 horses inside the temple. It is also known for its artistic murals and sculptures in circular structures.4. Sadri: Sadri is a small town that is a famous place of worship amongst Jain devotees. You will find a number of important temples in this region such as the Parshuram Mahadev Temple, Varaha Avatar Temple, Chintamani Parasnath Temple, along with 14 other Jain temples.

Question 3

How to reach Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

- By Air: Dabok Airport is the nearest airport in Udaipur, which is connected to Mumbai and Delhi with frequent and regular flights. You can easily reach Ranakpur by hiring buses and taxis from the airport.- By Train: The nearest railway station from Ranakpur is the Udaipur Railway Station. You can hire taxis and buses from the railway station to reach your destination.- By Road: You can take buses from the Udaipur main Bus Stand to your destination in Ranakpur.

Question 4

What is the best time to visit Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

Winter, which lasts from October to March, is generally considered the best time to visit Ranakpur. The temperature remains cool and mild during this time of the year, varying between 11 degrees to 28 degrees Celsius.

It is also a great time to tour the natural beauty and the many temples of Ranakpur on foot, as you can avoid the scorching heat of the summer sun.

Question 5

What is famous in Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

Ranakpur is famous for a number of ancient and historical Jain temples. All the temples reflect marvellous Jain temple-architecture and intricate craftsmanship that is rare and unique.

One of the most famous temples in this area is the Jain Temple in Pali, which is frequented by tourists throughout the year and is an important pilgrimage site for Jains.

Question 6

How old is Ranakpur Jain temple?

Accepted Answer

The Jain Temple in Ranakpur was built in the 15th Century by a Jain businessman named Seth Dharna Shah with the aid of Rana Kumbha.

Question 7

Is Ranakpur worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Ranakpur is one of the best places to visit while touring Udaipur. This small town is a cradle of Jain culture. The Jain temples are not only a visual delight, but also provide deep insight to Jainism, its architectural brilliance and its magnificent sculpture and artworks.

Question 8

How far is Ranakpur from Udaipur?

Accepted Answer

The distance between Ranakpur from Udaipur is 94 km on road. Frequent trains and buses travel between these two places, making the commute to and from Ranakpur to the city of Udaipur very easy and convenient. You can also avail buses, taxis and private cars from cities like jodhpur and Jaipur if you are up for a long road trip.

Question 9

How far is Kumbhalgarh from Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

The distance between Kumbhalgarh from Ranakpur is 33.4 kms if you are travelling on road via RJ SH 32. Another alternative route to Kumbhalgarh from Ranakpur is via Kumbhalgarh Fort Road, which entails a distance of 44.6 kms.

Question 10

Which are the best places to stay in Ranakpur?

Accepted Answer

1. Ranakpur Hill Resort: The Ranakpur Hill Resort is one of the best retreats featuring exquisitely furnished rooms and amenities like a swimming pool, spa, bar, business centre and children activities centre. Along with a well-equipped breakfast buffet and a coffee shop, you can also sample a number of local dishes at their in-house restaurant.2. Mana Resort, Ranakpur: Situated at Sadri, the Mana resort is known for its heart-warming hospitality and extremely comfortable rooms. The finely furnished Deluxe rooms feature flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee making appliances and a minibar.3. Ranakpur Safari Resort: The Safari Resort in Ranakpur is the best place to relax and rejuvenate with your loved ones. With charming and extremely comfortable interiors, this resort offers efficient services, an on-site restaurant serving mouth-watering delicacies, a swimming pool and outdoor sports like horse riding.4. Maharani Bagh Resort: Maharani Bagh Resort is undoubtedly a dream retreat for any visitor. Built in the 19th century, this heritage resort features rooms with classic furniture and vintage interiors. Other amenities include a large, outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, a chic bar, meeting rooms and a professional tennis court.