Archive for December 9, 2008
Lodurva - A Jain Pilgrimage - Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Lodurva Jain Temples, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Location and History about Lodurva
Lodurva, located at a distance of 15-kilometers from Jaisalmer is one of the most enchanting Rajasthan tourist attractions.
Lundurva ,the ancient capital of Bhatti Rajputs was once a flourishing city but most of the splendour when the Bhattis shifted their capital to Jaisalmer.
According to a popular legend the ancient River Kak flew in this part of Rajasthan. It was on the banks of this river that the legendary prince Mathendru of Amarkot and princess Momal fell in love and eventually met their tragic end. It is believed that the River Kak dried up after the two lovers perished.
The most mesmerizing experience will be the peacock dance amid exotic Lodurva ruins. Yes, Peacocks are a great pull and they are in plenty here.
Lodurva Attractions -Â Jain Temples
There are several Jain temples at Lodurva, though the most significant are the Parswanath Temple, Rishabhnath Temple and the Sambhavnath Temple.
Nevertheless the place is a major tourist attraction and have jain temples made of bright yellow sandstone, these temple walls are decorated with the pictures of Lord Parsvanath, the Jain Tirthankar arch in the main temple building. These arches are typical of the Delwara style of temple architecture.
The beautiful Jaali works make these temples a piece of marvel. You will notice the splendid and dominating arch in the main temple building.
About Kalpavriksha (Celestial Tree)
Inside the temple complex is the Kalpavriksha or the celestial tree. A tree was once believed to have grown here, and when it died it was substituted by a true to life sculpture in an alloy of eight metals, making it an ‘eternal tree’ symbolizing enlightenment.
The copper leaves are believed to have the power to fulfil the wishes of any devotee. On the temple’s outer wall there is a low – relief carving on stone, reportedly inhabited by a black cobra who’s been living here for 400 years. Rumor has it that he comes out 10-15 times every summer and anyone catching a glimpse of it is blessed with good luck.
In your visit to Jaisalmer, you just can’t remain silent without admiring the intricately imprinted yellow sandstone in the temples and miracle of the artistic beauty visible on these ancient monuments. Even the ruins the temple at Lodurva radiate character.
