The Jain temples at Dilwara, near Mount Abu are considered to be masterpieces of temple architecture. The complex includes two temples in which the art of carving marble reached unsurpassed heights.

The older of the temples is the Vimalvashi temple, built by the commander Vimalshah on the order of King Bhimdev in 1031 AD is dedicated to the first tirthankar. It took around 1,500 workers and several years to build. There are forty-eight pillars; sixteen pillars have the images of female figures in dancing poses and fifty-two small shrines, each housing a beautiful statue of tirthankaras. The rang mandap is a beautiful piece of architecture. The artistic roofs are decorated with elephants and goddesses.

The later Tejpal temple is dedicated to Neminath and was build in 1203 by the brothers Tejpal and Vastupal. It is important as an extremely old and complete example of a Jain temple; its most notable feature is the fantastic intricacy and delicacy of the marble carving. The carving is so fine that, in places, the marble becomes almost transparent. In particular, the lotus flower, which hangs from the center of the dome, is an incredible piece of work.

Getting There
To get to Dilwara, you can charter a jeep or take a place in a shared one from main junction at the southeastern end of Mount Abu's polo ground.

Other places of interest

Nakki Lake
A tiny lake, in the midst of hills. The lake is dotted with several islets approachable by a boat. The Toad Rock, Nun Rock and Nandi Rock are few of the rocks worth seeing. The legend belief is that the gods with their finger nails or "Nakh" scooped the lake out. It is the only artificial lake in India that is 1200mts above sea level.

Shri Raghunathji Temple
Situated near the Nikki Lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity.

Gaumukh Temple
A natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow's head gives the shrine its name. The famous 'YAGNA' of Sage Vashishtha was performed here. A beautiful sculpted hill temple of Arbuda - the mighty serpent, stands against the backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.

Adhar Devi Temple
The temple is chiseled out of a huge rock reached by a flight of 360 stairs.

Sunset Point
Here one can see the spectacular sight of the setting sun when the hills are covered in the golden glow.

Honeymoon Point
Also known as Anadra Point, it offers an enchanting view of the plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the dusk hours.

BRAHMA KUMARI'S ASHRAM
This is a beautiful ashram in Mt. Abu worth spending a day in the ashram wherein one gets good vibes and mental peace. The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization offers in human, moral and spiritual values. To meet the challenge of change, it initiates dialogues and presents a fresh vision of the future. It recognizes the intrinsic goodness of all human beings and teaches meditation to help and rediscover the inner resources and strengths. This is not women's organization though women mainly administer it, it is an organization in which both women and men participate in a process of self-growth and personal development. Spirituality is the key to trust and respect. Women have the basic qualities of patience, tolerance, sacrifice, kindness and love as core values necessary for the personal growth, human relations and caring communities.

SPIRITUAL LEADERS
Dadi Prakashmani: With generosity of spirit and unlimited vision as her prime motivators she has been able to guide the organization in its tremendous growth. She administered 3200 centers in 70 countries like a guardian to the global family.

Dadi Janki: This woman of wisdom was given the key to freedom at 21 years of age when she decided to dedicate her life to the principles and practices of the Brahma Kumaris. She shared a vision of a world of peace and purity, the passion to experience the essence of spiritual truths within her and the power of bringing this essence into practical action. She spent 14 years researching the true meaning and purpose of life and the deeper implications of karma or actions in the laboratory of her own soul.