About Adinath Temple on Shatrunjaya
The Adinath Temple, also known as Shri Adishwar Temple, is the principal Jain temple atop Shatrunjaya Hill near Palitana in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat. Dedicated to Rishabhanatha (Adinath), the first Jain Tirthankara, it stands at the highest point of the hill among a cluster of over 800 marble temples. Revered as the most sacred Jain pilgrimage site, the temple is noted for its ornate marble architecture, intricate carvings, and panoramic hilltop setting reached by climbing around 3,500 stone steps.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a steep pilgrimage climb of approximately 3,500 stone steps to reach the hilltop temple complex. The Adinath Temple sits at the highest enclosure with white marble architecture, intricately carved pillars, domes and shrines. The surrounding complex contains hundreds of smaller Jain temples grouped in fortified enclosures (tuks) with courtyards and panoramic views over Palitana town and surrounding plains. The environment is quiet and devotional, with pilgrims performing prayers and circumambulation. Facilities are basic on the hill; shops and doli services are available at the base.
Key highlights
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Principal shrine of Shatrunjaya Hill dedicated to Adinath (Rishabhanatha), the first Jain Tirthankara
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Located at the highest point of Shatrunjaya Hill among more than 800 marble temples
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Ornate white marble architecture with intricate carvings, pillars and domed mandapas
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Panoramic views from the hilltop over Palitana and the Bhavnagar region
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Centre of the most sacred Jain pilgrimage circuit with nine major enclosures (tuks)
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Historic climb of about 3,500 stone steps with rest shelters along the route
History of Adinath Temple on Shatrunjaya
Shatrunjaya Hill is an ancient Jain pilgrimage centre with temple construction dating from the 11th century onwards. The Adinath Temple, dedicated to Rishabhanatha, has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to invasions, with major restorations in the 16th century under guidance of Jain monks and patrons. The present marble structures largely reflect 16th to 19th century renovations. The hill complex contains over 800 temples built over nearly 900 years, representing Solanki and later architectural styles.
Culture & Context
Shatrunjaya is considered the most sacred pilgrimage place (Siddha Kshetra) for Svetambara Jains. It is believed that Adinath and numerous Jain monks attained spiritual liberation here, and that the hill was sanctified by visits of Jain Tirthankaras. Pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya, especially climbing to the Adinath Temple, is regarded as highly meritorious. The site remains an active centre of Jain worship, festivals and rituals, particularly during Kartik Purnima.