Palitana – The Sacred "City of Temples"

Palitana, located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, is regarded as one of the holiest Jain pilgrimage centers in the world. Famous for the Shatrunjaya Hills, which are crowned with over 900 intricately carved marble temples, Palitana stands as a living symbol of Jain devotion and architectural grandeur. Known as the “City of Temples”, it is also the world’s first city to completely ban non-vegetarian food, reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural ethos of Jainism.

Location

• City: Palitana

• District: Bhavnagar, Gujarat
  

• Hill Complex: Shatrunjaya Hills

• Steps to Reach Temples: Approximately 3,500 stone steps lead devotees to the sacred hilltop temples

Significance

Kulpakji is considered a major Jain pilgrimage site and is among the oldest Jain temples in India. It houses idols of several revered Tirthankaras, including:

• Palitana is considered one of the two holiest Jain pilgrimage sites, alongside Shikharji in Jharkhand.

• Jain tradition holds that 23 out of the 24 Tirthankaras visited and sanctified this site, making it supremely sacred.

• The Shatrunjaya temple complex, with its 900+ temples, represents centuries of devotion, craftsmanship, and religious importance.
• Palitana is also renowned as the world’s first city to ban the sale, consumption, and butchering of animals for meat, a law enacted in 2014, upholding Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence).

Architectural Beauty & Deities

• The temples, mostly built from white marble, are admired for their exquisite carvings and majestic domes.
• The most prominent among them is the Adishwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Rishabhanatha (Adinath), the first Tirthankara.
• Other temples display unique artistry, each crafted by generations of Jain patrons over the span of 900 years.
• The ascent to the hill, with 3,500 steps, is considered both a physical and spiritual journey for pilgrims.
  

History & Origins

• The oldest artifact on Shatrunjaya Hill is the idol of Pundarika, dating back to 1006 AD.
  

• In ancient texts, Palitana was known as Padliptapur, meaning the “City of Temples.”

• Most temples were built during the 11th century, though many were destroyed during invasions and later rebuilt with great dedication.
  
• In 1656, Murad Baksh, son of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and then governor of Gujarat, granted the village of Palitana to Shantidas Jhaveri, a prominent Jain merchant.
• Since 1730, the Anandji Kalyanji Trust has managed the temple complex, ensuring its preservation and upkeep.

  Pilgrimage & Visiting Information

• Climb: Devotees climb 3,500 steps to reach the hilltop, considered an act of devotion (yatra).

• Ban on Non-Vegetarianism: Palitana is the first city in the world to fully ban meat consumption, a law enacted in 2014.

• Temple Management: The Anandji Kalyanji Trust oversees the temples and provides facilities for pilgrims.
• Accommodation: Dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) are available, offering vegetarian meals and lodging.

Spiritual Importance

Palitana is not only an architectural marvel but also a spiritual Everest for Jains. It is believed that achieving a pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya Hill ensures liberation of the soul (moksha). With 23 Tirthankaras sanctifying the land, devotees regard it as one of the purest places on earth.

Hidden Fact

The city of Palitana is entirely vegetarian by law — no meat, fish, or eggs are allowed within its limits. This rare and remarkable commitment makes Palitana a unique city on the global map, symbolizing the Jain principle of absolute non-violence (ahimsa) in everyday life.

  Dharamshalas in Palitana :

• Maharashtra Bhuvan: This dharmashala on Taleti Road offers spacious, hygienic rooms and is known for its good food and reasonable prices. 

• Jainsite Bhavan: A modern option with amenities like lifts, air-conditioned rooms, and clean, spacious accommodations. 

• Sadadi Bhavan: A popular choice for its basic amenities, hygienic facilities, and easy access to the Shatrunjaya Hill. 

• Keshariyaji Jain Dharmashala: This dharmashala provides a comfortable experience with its clean and well-maintained restrooms and facilities. 

• Bhamri Vihar Jain Dharamshala: Located in Taleti, this well-known establishment serves both local and out-of-town visitors. 

• Bhuriba Yatrik Bhavan: Another established option for pilgrims and visitors staying in Palitana.

• Shree Jin Hari Vihar Dharmashala: A noted dharmashala located in the area.

• Himmat Vihar Jain Dharamshala: A listed dharmashala providing accommodation for visitors. 

• Shree Yatindra Bhavan Jain Dharmashala: A dharmashala catering to the needs of pilgrims. 

• Chandradipak Jain Dharmashala: A listed dharmashala known for its services to visitors.