Ranakpur Jain temple complex : Rajasthan's most outstanding Jain temples are at Ranakpur and at Dilwara in Mount Abu. Ranakpur complex is a huge cluster of temples with intricately carved 1444 pillars of different design and domes in white marble. The entrance has erotic sculptures reminding the importance of keeping such feelings out before entering the temple. The sanctum has a four faced marble image of Adinath. The temple has stunning filigree carving on the concentric ceiling pendants, and the exuberant grace of the goddesses who form the support brackets.

The four sided temple has a wall topped with spires and four separate entrances. The 15th century temple has profuse decoration inside showing the importance of rich inner life.

Kalpavalli medallion on the roof has exquisite patterns of foliage, tendrils and flowers. The Parsvanatha plaque shows the 23rd tirthankara protected by a multi-headed cobra. Another ceiling has a four bodied one head sculpture. The temple has domes, a central high tower with a long flag, torana, huge bells, three marble elephants, a number of Jain deities in side chambers and an incomplete structure of stupas on the northern side.

The nearby 15th century Parsvanatha temple has exceptionally fine pierced stonework on its windows. A Hindu Sun temple is outside the complex wall near the Sayara (20 km) ghat road on Udaipur route. The area has plenty of wildlife and a guided jungle walk will be enjoyable.

Photography of the temple can be done from Noon to 5 pm at a fee of Rs 50 per camera. The temple entry is forbidden to menstruating women. Leather articles are not allowed inside. Jainism is based of total non-violence. The temple Dharmasala provides cheap and best food and accommodation.

It was a 3.5 hour journey from Udaipur (90 km). I left Ranakpur at 1800 h by Jodhpur bus (4.5 h , Rs 100). I stayed at a lodge near the Jodhpur railway station. Jodhpur has plenty of peacocks.