Girnar Temples India:

Girnar Temples

Girnar Temples India

Girnar Temples India

Girnar Temples India

Girnar Temple is one of the holy places in Gujarat, located near Junagadh at a distance of 327 from Ahmedabad. It is a holy place and a chief pilgrimage for both Hindus and Jains. Present are a number of temples located here, which have converted it into a township of temples. Amidst the lush green Gir Forest, the mountain range serves as the hub of holy action. Apart from this, there is a mosque attracting a lot of Muslim pilgrims to the place. This has made Girnar a great example of unity in diversity in India.

The height has been a chief holy place since the 3rd century. Girnar temples present a true blend of art, faith and devotion. The sculptural art used in these temples is outstanding. They have stood the test the time and the cruelty of different invaders. Even with that, the art forms of the temples still retain their magnificence. The Jain temples at Girnar attract devotees of both Shwetambar and Digambar sects of Jainism. The Neminath Temple is the major attraction of Girnar. It was built throughout 1128 AD to 1159 AD.

According to Jain religious attitude, Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankar became an ascetic behind he saw the slaughter of animals for food on his wedding. He renounced all worldly pleasures and came to Mount Girnar to attain salvation. Here, Bhagwan Neminath reached the highest state of enlightenment, Keval Gyan and Moksha, behind huge austerities. His bride-to-be also followed his path and founded the 'Sandhvi Sangh', the society of women ascetics. The rectangular Neminath temple is the most temples here.

It has an idol of Lord Neminath in black granite with jeweled eyes. Present are quadrangle courtyards, corridors and other shrines. The pillars are decorated with intricate carvings of Jain Tirthankars. The ceilings bear carvings and sculptures of Dancing Goddesses. Apart from this, present is the Mallinath temple, which is devoted to the 19th Tirthankar. It was constructed by Vastupal and Tejpal. Neminath in 1231 AD. The Lord is shown in blue color here. The Rishabhadev Temple, located nearby, is in golden color.

It is dedicated to 24 Tirthankars of Jain faith. A different Jain temple in the region is the Parshwanath Temple. It was built in the 15th century and is also known as Meravasi. Besides this, there is a Goddess Ambe Temple at Grinar. The temple is visited by the just wedded couples for high-quality fortune and prosperous married life. A mosque nearby is thronged by childless women for blessings. The Dattatreya hill, middle down the temple cluster, also houses a number of other temples worth seeing.