Ranakpur has gained attention from tourists, art lovers and devotees all over, chiefly because of the world famous heritage of Jain temples. The place gets its name from Rana Kumbha, a Rajput ruler. These temples were an initiative of a Jain businessman, Dharna Sah, who with help of Rana Kumbha acquired a land stretching 48,000 sq. km, where these temples stand today. This place forms one amongst the five most visited temples amongst Jains and is a masterpiece of artistry. The Jain temple is built in marble with intricate carving on 1,444 columns, 24 pillars, 80 domes and two bells of 108 kgs each. Notably, none of the carved styles or images on one single pillar or column matches the other and each is a unique masterpiece of art. The presiding deity is - Jain Teerthankar Adinatha and a number of smaller shrines surround the main Adinatha temple. Ranakpur is located in a valley along western side of Aravali range near Sadari between Jodhpur and Udaipur. One can reach here from Udaipur Airport or Pahalna Railway Station.
