Tuesday, 06 October 2009 04:42

Shatrunjaya -Hill

About:

The Shatrunjaya Hill is located at a height of 591 metres. The Shatrunjaya Temple is the most sacred temple of the Jains and one of the largest of its kind in India. One has to climb up the hill for about 4 kms (600 meters) on a stepped path to Shatrunjaya (place of victory over worldliness). You can reach this place either in Doli or lift chairs or by walking. The rich persons visit this place on richly caparisoned elephants. There are about 863 white marble Jain temples, built over 900 years on the hilltop, each with its own enclosure. There is a stunning view from the top of the hill and the air is filled with the scent of the jasmine trees. On a clear day, you can also see the Gulf of Cambay. All the temples are enriched with gold, silver and jewels donated by rich merchants. According to local tradition, Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara, visited the hill several times and the first temple was erected by his son. Thereafter the emple builders could not stop. Jains believe that Pundarika.

 

The chief disciple of Adinatha attained nirvana there. There are two series of temples strung along the two ridges of the hill with further temples in the hollow between linking them. All are surrounded by a tall battlement, erected for the defence. These fortificationsare called tuks and have created a series of nine enclosures, each with a central temple and various other minor temples. Most of the temples are named after their founders, nearly all the structures dating from the 16th century. Many of these temples were built in the 11th century but were destroyed by the Muslims in the 14th and 15th centuries. Later, Jains obtained religious toleration and began rebuilding. Approaching from the right, the first and finest temple that you will visit is dedicated to Shri Adishwar, one of the most important Jain Tirthankars. This temple is one of the most magnificent and sacred temple of the Jains community. Situated about 215 kilometers from Ahmedabad and about 62 kilometers from Bhavnagar in Gujarat.

The Shatrunjaya hill near Palitana, is considered to be the most sacred of the five holy hills of the Jains. Every devout Jain wants to make a pilgrimage to this hill at least once in his lifetime and contribute to the temple building and renovation activities there.This hill, with the Shatrunjaya river flowing south of it, rises in a crescendo of 863 temples that soar in marvelous splendour to the top. With an altitude of 603 meters, this hill has the largest number of temples anywhere in the world at such a height. These temples have been built over an impressive span of 900 years.It is believed that Rishabdeoji, the first of the Jain tirthanakras attained his nirvana on this hill. To commemorate the event, according to Jain scriptures, the first temple on the hill was built by King Bharat, son of Rishabdeo. However, most of the temples were built during the 11th and 12th centuries.. White marble and stone were used in the construction of these temples. To an observer. These appear to be ivory miniatures when seen from a distance. Exquisite carvings of figurines, animal motifs, freizes adorn the walls of these temples.



Shatrunjaya Hill, literally meaning the Hill of Victory is a famous Jain pilgrimage.. It is believed that Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharat, attained their salvation on this hill. Jain legends say that Pandavas were the first ones to build shrines on this hilltop. This tradition of building Jain temples on Shatrunjaya Hill continued for a very long time. The present structures were all, however, built between 11th and 20th centuries.

Location info:

Address:Shatrunjaya Hill,Palitana,Gujarat,India
District:Bhavnagar
Nearest City:Bhavnagar
Langauge: Gujarati,Hindi,English
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:

Summer : Min: 25°C, Max:45°C,Winter : Min: 15°C, Max:35°C

History:

It is believed that Rishabdeoji, the first of the Jain tirthanakras attained his nirvana on this hill. To commemorate the event, according to Jain scriptures, the first temple on the hill was built by King Bharat, son of Rishabdeo. However, most of the temples were built during the 11th and 12th centuries AD. White marble and stone were used in the construction of these temples. To an observer, these appear to be ivory miniatures when seen from a distance. Exquisite carvings of figurines, animal motifs, freizes adorn the walls of these temples.

Interesting things to do:

Interesting things to Visit:

Angar Pir Shrine:
Palitana is a famous pilgrim site for all Jain worshippers. The famous Adishwara temple is situated here atop a hill. Every devout Jain aspires to climb to the top of the mountain at least once in his lifetime. The journey is arduous. The walk up the stone stairway hewn into the mountain face takes about an hour and a half. For those unable or unacquainted to the strain, sling-chairs are available at a bargain. This famous temple is located at the summit of Shatrunjaya. Very near to this famous temple Angar Pir Shrine is located. This shrine is very auspicious for all Muslim followers. Common men from other religions also revere this shrine and pay a visit to it. Angar Pir Shrine, Palitana is counted among the popular tourist attractions in Palitana.

 

Kumar Pal Temple:
Palitana is very well-known for its temples and there are 863 temples that are situated on the top of the Shetrunjaya hills. It is located at a distance of 51 kms from Bhavnagar. These temples, built over a period of 900 years, offer an aesthetic look to the eyes. Amongst the Holy Places in Palitana, a name to reckon with is that of Kumar Pal Temple, Palitana.

Shri Adishwara Temple:
Located in Gujarat, Palitana is perched at the foothills of Shatrunjaya Hill. Palitana is a little town that has gained importance as being one of the most sacred tirth (pilgrimage) for Jains with about 900 temples. Shri Adishwara Temple in Palitana is a famous pilgrim site.Palitana Adishwara temple that crowns the hill of Palitana is dedicated to Lord Aadeshwar (Rishabdev). The holy temple nestled at the hill top is spread over a vast area and incorporates within its premises about 108 smaller temples of the 108 Gods according to the beliefs of Jainism. Shri Adishwara, Palitana features among one of the popular tourist attractions in Palitana.

Devotees visiting the famous Adishwara Temple in Palitana desire to climb to the mountain-top at least once in their lifetime, because of the holiness associated with the temple. The journey is exhausting. The walk up the stone stairways comprising of around 4000 steps takes about an hour and a half. Dolis are available those who prefer to avoid the steps. Dolis are held by two men at both ends of a stick in the middle of which are a base to sit on. Food is avoided or carried on the way. The journey must begin prior to the sunset as no one can stay atop during the night.

Chaumukh Shrine:
Palitana is located at a distance of 51 kms to the southwestern part of Bhavnagar. Palitana is basically a pilgrim place which is famous for its Jain temples and shrines. Amongst the Holy Places in Palitana, the Chaumukh Shrine in Palitana merits a special mention. As Bhavnagar is well linked to the other parts of Gujarat and the rest of the country, reaching the Chaumukh Shrine in Palitana would be an easy job for the tourists.

The other name of Chaumukh Shrine in Palitana is Adinath temple. As the name suggests, Chaumukh means four faces. This shrine is devoted to Adinath, the first among the twenty four Tirthankaras. The immaculate architecture of this beautiful temple calls for a visit. It has numerous square structures that are in the shape of a dome at the top. These structures are highly symbolical and the inner part of the squares symbolizes the five holy hills of the Jains. Tourists would feel a sense of tranquility and bliss when they visit this place.

Sampriti Raj Temple :
On a tour to Palitana if you are looking for spiritual upliftment and this urge is impelling you to explore the most sacred holy places then don't forget to include holy places in Palitana in your travel itinerary. This is the most coveted pilgrimage destination. The most visited pilgrimage site in Palitana is beautiful mountain of Shatrunjaya. Jain followers come to this mountain very frequently to offer prayers to their lords. They have to venture upon to climb up 3950 steps which mark around 4 km and result in covering the height of 600 m or 1980 ft lofty hill. On arriving at the pinnacle of the hill the Jain followers reach as many as 863 ancient temples that are more than 900 year old. You should also pay visit to this very revered and popular pilgrimage destination. Here the one temple that is the must-visit site of the 2 groups of countless temples is Sampriti Raj Temple in Palitana.

Palitana in Gujarat is a very renowned pilgrimage destination in Gujarat. It is the coveted destination for especially the followers of Jainism. However a good deal of pleasure travelers also visit this spot to enjoy the architectural feast. The one place which is frequented on close intervals is the mountain of Shatrunjaya abounding in whopping number of Jain temples that amount to around 863. These sublime temples feature intricate and elaborate carvings in marble and are around 900 years old. Although the intricacy in the work may not be same as Mount Abu Jain temples but they are the real mesmerizing sights to lay eyes on. Of the conglomeration of various temples on the hillock, you must visit the Vimal Shah Temple in Palitana.

Mobile range info:

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station:Bhavnagar from Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Nearest Airport:Bhavnagar has an airport
Road Transport:Bhavnagar is well connected by road with towns and cities in Western and Northern India. Ahmedabad is 200 kms, Rajkot is 178kms and Vadodara or Baroda is 280 kms from Bhavnagar.

Nearest Visiting places:

Shri Swaninarayan temple:
Shri Swaninarayan temple is the major attraction in this place, the temple was built in the year 1829 will speak greatness for its architectural values and splendid spacious square with a high plinth wall and an assembly hall with large sarais will pull in tourist beyond beliefs

 

Shree J.K. Lukhi Arts College:
Shree J.K. Lukhi Arts College is situated here, nearby attractions of tourist interests are Shatrunjaya hill, the Jain temples, Shri Adishwara temple, Chaumukh temple, Shrine of Angar Pir and 108 Samvasaran Mandir at Palitana.

Digambar Jain Temples:
The three ancient Digambar Jain temples reveal Ghogha as a serene pilgrim center. This spot is located on the banks of the Gulf of Cambay wherein it swam in world tourists and pilgrims daily, the major temples of visit are Chopra Mandir known famously dedicated to Bhagwan Chandra Prabhu, the 8th Tirthankar and Bhagwan Nemi Nath. Gujarati Mandir and Dandia Mandir are the other important temples of visit and worship. The idols placed here are renowned to be dated over 2500 years of an age which still stands prejudice with the workmanship of ancient dwellers here. These large number of ancient idols are installed at Ghogha enhances tourist visiting worth.

Gopnath:
This spot was utilized as a summer resort pleasure by Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji of Bhavnagar those days, even today though the place is a hamlet yet nature has filled its harmony so pleasant and picturesque around these regions. The beaches, the seacoast, and the limestone cliffs present us an enchanting breathtaking vision. Wading down the firm sand shore will be an awesome experience for the visitors, the panoramic view over the colourful birds and nature adds beauty to the living of mankind in planet earth. The rocky shoals of the coast will be a major attraction the marine life enthusiasts globally, apart from these natural values you have the world’s largest ship breaking zone and Gopnath Mahadev temple as the talk of the town, moreover Talja , temple which spirals up 350foot high volcanic hill is situated here. Rajapara village nearby has a white sanded beach which is another attraction to the tourist, Shopping lovers could go crazy with furniture, food stuffs, crockery, utensils, textile, home appliances, salvaged from the demolished ships can be purchased here.

Brahma Kund:
The town is surrounded by hilly regions and dates back to 12th century history; the temple of Brahma Kund (a stepped tank surrounded by idols of Hindu deity) is the major attraction of visit here, this valid attraction was built by Raja Sidhraj during those days, in the17th century Vijay Vilas Palace of the Maharajas with fine wood carving and paintings have attained history and still exist as eternal attraction to mankind. The main important Shiva temple is the spot of pilgrim center and some other places of interest are Khodiar Mata temple and the Sihor Mata temple near Gautameshwar Lake and the Old fort of Sihor excel with its wall paintings attract tourist to the core of mirth.

Kirtidham teerth:
Kirtidham teerth, a Jain pilgrim site located on the way from Songadh to Plaitana will be an attraction for tourism.

Vallabhipur:
Previously known as the capital of Maurya Dynasty and was the ancient center for learning and was known as Vamilpur. Here, Jain learning was prime note of education, Vallabhipur have set a record over history for this, the famous book ‘Shetrunjay mahatmya’ was written by Acharya Dhaneshwar Surji from here. There are some important tourist locales such as vallabhipur teerth the temple deicated to Adinath Bhagwan and the Museum which contains great values of archaeological findings etc.

Velavadar National Park:
This park is a preserved space for black bucks, these black bucks are considered to be the fastest runner among animals, and it runs an approximate speed of 90 km per hour. The men bucks are in black and white spiral horns with seem unique to look at; the Bishno tribes’ takes responsibility over this preserved animal. Nilgais, wild boars, wolves, jackals and large number of birds are found here, the best touring time is between the months of October and June.

Akshar Temple:
Akshar temple is also known as Aksharwadi Swaminarayana Temple. It is one of the most famous temple in Bhavnagar.

Barton Library and Museum:
Barton Library and Museum, one of the oldest monuments in Bhavnagar, is a favorite place for all age groups. The museum was established in 1895. Elderly people spend their time here reading newspapers, dailies and magazines. The museum houses old books, manuscripts, rare coins, arms and armours used by the rulers of Bhavnagar. Other collections include farming tools, beadwork, wood carvings, weapons, musical instruments and reminders of Mahatma Gandhi's period as a student of Bhavnagar University.

Bhavnagar Lock Gate:
Bhavnagar Lock Gate is a popular tourist spots in the city of Bhavnagar in Gujarat, India. It enables the ships to remain afloat when the tide is low. The Lock Gate of Bhavnagar is situated in a dockyard of the city that was built 100 years ago. It is a very old dry dock of the country, which is still operational. It is at present used for the making of ships.

Gandhi Smriti:
Gandhi Smriti a memorial, with a library of Gandhian books and photographs about the life of Mahatma Gandhi. It also has a fine collection of art objects representing the culture of the Saurashtra region.

Gangajaha:
Gangajaha is a temple in the city of Bhavnagar. It is visited by all tourists and is one of the popular tourist attractions in Bhavnagar. Gangajaha is a favorite among the tourists. The temple is entirely made up of white marble stones, rendering it an elegant and graceful look.

Gaurishankar Lake:
Gaurishankar Lake aka Bor Talav, named after a very able 19th century minister of the king, is a reservoir originally planned for water supply to the town. It is a popular picnic spot where one can watch a setting sun over lake and enjoy a stroll on the parapet wall of the lake. A small planetarium for children is also worth a visit. Bhav Vilas Palace lies on the shores of the lake.

Mahuva:
Mahuva is a small town located in the district of Bhavnagar in Gujarat. It is also addressed as Kashmir of Saurashtra, because of the scenery around. The coconut tree plantations add to the beauty of the town. Tourists also enjoy at the beach of the city. Near the beach is the ancient Bhavani Temple, which is an important attraction of the city of Bhavnagar. The town enjoys an extremely pleasant climate throughout the year.

Nava Bandar:
Bhavnagar Port, on the west coast of India is an all weather direct berthing port for small vessels. It is located in the Gulf of Cambay at a latitude and longitude of 21° 45" N and 72° 14" E respectively. Bhavnagar city is only 10 km from the port. Vessels to be disembarked alongside the concrete jetty must pass through the Lock Gate Door.

Takhteswar Temple:
Takhteshwar Temple is one of the prime places to see in Bhavnagar. It is a white marble temple built on hill with full city aerial view. The temple is located on top of a small hill, which is near the main railway station of the city. Lord Shiva is worshipped as the main deity of this shrine.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

HP petrol pump:Palitana Rammantra mandir,Gujarat,India

 

shelena bus stop petrol pump:palitana,Gujarat,India

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Hotel Apollo:Bhavnagar,Gujarat,India

 

Hotel Blue Hill:Bhavnagar,Gujarat,India

White Rose Hotel:Bhavnagar,Gujarat,India

Hotel Jubilee:Bhavnagar,Gujarat,India

Things to carry:

Tips & Suggestions:

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:100
Nearest Hospital:
Society/Community Phone Number:
Link:www.shatrunjaya.com

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Nearest Attraction

Palitana Jain Temples
Palitana is situated at a distance of 51 km from Bhavnagar and serves as an important Jain pilgrimage of Gujarat. The Shatrunjay Hill loacted nearby the place hosts approximately 900 big and small Jain Temples. These temples are dedicated to the 24 Jain Tirthankarars. Apart from this, the significance of the place dates back to the Mahabharata era of India. It is said that three Pandavas, Yudhishthir, Bheem & Arjun got Nirvana here. Therefore, it is known as Siddhakshetra, where one attains Moksha, amongst Jain devotees.....more
Gopnath Beach
A visit to Gopnath Beach is all what is required by a tourist and traveler who is on a jamboree to discover the delights of Gujarat and especially its divinely picturesque, scenic and resplendent seafront in the form of its various beatific beaches. Gopnath Beach in Gujarat, India, is one such place and travel destination which is popular amongsst the people and the various tourists visiting the beatific and enrapturing beach in Gujarat, India.Gopnath town in Gujarat, India, was the place of residence of Maharaja Krishna Singhji, at a distance of 75 kilometers from the city of Bhavnagar in Gujarat, India. Gopnath Town in Gujarat, India, is located near the Gopnath Beach in Gujarat, India, with the Gopnath Beach being profusely supplied with a dainty and colorful birdlife along with the presence of limestone cliffs and other adjuncts to the Gopnath Beach like a pleasurable sea breeze and breathtakingly beautiful views to enthrall the tourists who come down to the Gopnath Beach in Gujarat, India, in the hot summer months to get some relaxation from the sultry, trying and immobilizing heat....more
Arts And Crafts Museum
Arts and Crafts Museum, established in 1963, is situated at Bhavnagar, in Gujarat. The museum exhibits a rich collection of arts and crafts objects of Gujarat as well as known crafts of different states of India, including Indian textiles. Guide services are available on request.An arts and crafts museum it has a collection of arts and crafts objects of Gujarat and well known crafts of different states of India, including Indian textiles.Arts and crafts of Gujarat. Guide service, lectures, film shows. Timings : Summer 0830-1200 hrs and 1500-1900 hrs; Winter 0830-1200 hrs and 1430-1900 hrs. Closed on Mondays and public holidays. Entry free Photography not allowed.....more
Blackbuck National Park
Blackbuck N.P. Velavadar in the Bhal region of Saurashtra is a unique grassland ecosystem that has attracted fame for the successful conservation of the blackbuck, the wold and the lesser florican. Once found in open plains throughout the country and the state of Gujarat its largest population at present occurs in Velavadar N.P. This exclusively Indian animal is perhaps the most graceful and beautiful of its kind. It has ringed horns that have a spiral twist of three to fours turns and are up to 70 cm long. The body's upper parts are black and the underparts and a ring around the eyes are white. ....more