Surya Sthalams/Temples - Ranakpur Sun Temple

Ranakpur is located at a distance of 98 km from Udaipur in Rajasthan. The sun temple at Ranakpur dates back to the 13th century CE. After its destruction, it was rebuilt in the 15th century. This temple built in the classic Nagara style exhibits a profusion of intricate sculptural work. It is built of white lime stone, and is very intricately ornamented. This temple faces east, and it has a sanctum crowned with a shikhara, and an octogonal mandapa preceding the sanctum. The octogonal mandapa has six verandas. The projections on the exterior of the sanctum are sculpted with images of the Sun God seated on (a chariot of) rearing horses. The mandap houses exquisitely carved pillars, with lathe turned capitals. Sculpted toranas join the columns, leading to the sanctum. Also in Ranakpur is the grand temple complex dedicated to the Jain Thirthankara Adinatha - the Chaumukh temple with 29 halls with 1444 pillars no two of which are alike. This marble temple dates back to mid fifteenth century.