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Shatrunjaya Hill

Tuesday, 06 October 2009 04:42

Shatrunjaya -Hill

About:

Shatrunjaya Hill is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Jains and is renowned for its magnificent temple complex, which includes over 800 exquisitely carved marble temples. Located near the town of Palitana in Gujarat, India, the hill is a symbol of spirituality and architectural splendor. The name "Shatrunjaya" means "place of victory," signifying a spiritual victory over earthly desires.  



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
Coordinates: 21.4641° N, 71.8227° E
Nearest City:Bhavnagar
Langauge: Gujarati,Hindi,English
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March to June): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 42°C. Monsoon (July to September): Experiences moderate rainfall, with temperatures between 24°C to 30°C. Winter (October to February): Pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it the best time to visit.

History:
The temples on Shatrunjaya Hill were built over a span of 900 years, starting from the 11th century onwards. The hill is believed to have been sanctified by Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, who is said to have given his first sermon here. The temple complex has undergone several renovations and restorations over centuries, due to damage from invasions and natural wear. Today, the Shatrunjaya temples stand as a grand representation of Jain architecture and devotion.

Interesting things to do:

Temple Visit:
Explore the vast complex of over 800 marble temples, each with intricate carvings and beautiful domes.

Trekking:
Climb the 3,800 steps leading to the top of the hill, which offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

Meditation and Spiritual Activities:
Engage in meditation and prayers in the tranquil atmosphere of the temples.

Interesting things to Visit:
Adinath Temple:
The main temple dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev (Adinath), considered the holiest among all the temples on the hill.

Chaumukh Temple:A unique four-faced temple dedicated to Adinath, offering beautiful carvings and a serene environment. 

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.

Angar Pir Shrine:
A small shrine located at the base of the hill, revered by both Jains and Hindus.

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.

Mobile range info:
Mobile network coverage may be weak or intermittent on the hill due to its elevation and remote location. It is advisable to make necessary calls before starting your climb.

How to reach?
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhavnagar Airport, around 56 km away, with flights from major cities like Mumbai.
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:

Talaja Hill Caves:  Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves located about 30 km from Palitana.

Bhavnagar:
Known for its historical sites like Takhteshwar Temple and Gaurishankar Lake, located about 56 km away./p>

Alang Shipyard:
One of the largest ship-breaking yards in the world, located around 60 km from Shatrunjaya Hill.

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.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

The nearest petrol pumps are located in Palitana town, around 2 km from the base of Shatrunjaya Hill.  

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:
Comfortable walking shoes for the climb Water bottles and light snacks Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses Light woolens if visiting during winter Camera or smartphone for photography

Tips & Suggestions:
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat during the climb. The temple complex is sacred, so wear modest clothing, and avoid leather items. Carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are limited options on the hill. Photography is usually not allowed inside temple premises, so check before taking pictures. Respect the sanctity of the place, maintain silence, and avoid littering.

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

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