In the same mountains as Kumbhalgarh Fort, on the same winding road, we found Ranakpur Temple. This holy place is a masterpiece of Jain craftsmanship and devotion. Its intricate and ornate stone carvings lead one to ponder many things.
The Jain religion is an offshoot of Hinduism that dates from the same time as Buddhism. It tends toward a much more conservative direction though. All life, and I mean all life, is considered sacred to Jain believers to the extent that ascetics will sweep the ground in front of them to keep from stepping on bugs and wear veils to keep from breathing in bugs. The ultimate goal is to become completely detached from the world, which weighs down our souls. This includes clothing for the most devout believers.
This temple is considered the most spectacular of Jain temples. Built in the 15th century, there are 1,444 carved marble columns and several other absolutely stunning carved ceiling medallions and statues of deities. Enjoy some pictures!
