About Ajitnath Jain Temple
Ajitnath Jain Temple is the principal shrine of the Taranga Jain temple complex located on Taranga Hill in Mehsana district, Gujarat. Built in 1161 CE under Chaulukya King Kumarpala, it is dedicated to Ajitnatha, the second Jain Tirthankara. Notable for its Nagara-style architecture, intricate marble carvings and 2.75-metre central idol, it is a major Svetambara Jain pilgrimage centre attracting devotees and heritage visitors.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large white-marble Jain temple complex set at the foot of Taranga Hill with forested surroundings. The main shrine houses a colossal idol of Ajitnatha, with elaborately carved pillars, domes and shikharas. The complex includes several smaller shrines, open courtyards and dharamshala buildings. Pilgrims perform darshan and prayer, while other visitors explore the architecture and climb stone steps to hilltop shrines for views of the Aravalli landscape.
Key highlights
- 01
Principal temple of Taranga Jain complex built in 1161 CE in Māru-Gurjara Nagara style
- 02
2.75-metre white marble idol of Ajitnatha, the second Jain Tirthankara
- 03
Intricately carved pillars, ceilings and shikhara with detailed sculptural work
- 04
Scenic setting at the base of Taranga Hill in the Aravalli range
- 05
Important Svetambara Jain pilgrimage centre with associated hilltop shrines
History of Ajitnath Jain Temple
Built in 1161 CE (Vikram Samvat 1218) under Chaulukya King Kumarpala, with minister Vastupala's patronage according to tradition. It exemplifies the Māru-Gurjara architectural style of the Solanki period and has been a major Svetambara Jain centre for over 800 years. The temple complex is protected for its archaeological and architectural heritage.
Culture & Context
Dedicated to Ajitnatha, the second Tirthankara, the temple is one of the most revered Svetambara Jain pilgrimage sites in Gujarat. It is part of the Taranga Tirth, where devotees observe Jain rituals, festivals and pilgrimage traditions. The site also reflects the religious coexistence of Jain and nearby Koteshwar Mahadev Hindu shrine on the same hill.
Route
| By air |
|---|