Osian, The Khajuraho of Rajasthan is an ancient town that is in mid of Thar Desert. Osian is best known for its collection of a cluster of ruined Jain and Brahmanical temples dating from the 8th to 11th centuries. This town is a hub of historical, spiritual, and sacred sites. The erotic sculptures on temples are literally spellbinding and awe-striking. The Town of Ossian holds great historical importance too, as it was an important trading center on the famous Silk Route during ancient times. Also, at the time of the Gurjar and Pratihar dynasty, which ruled between the 6th and 11th centuries, Osian was a major and important pilgrimage site and was then known as Uakesapur.
Osian is about 65 kilometers from Jodhpur in Rajasthan. This place serves as an important site to the Jains and Hindus, as it is home to so many of their shrines. The grandeur and beauty of Osian are a visual treat to the eyes. The heart and essence of Osian lie in its Sun or Surya Temple. However, there are so many amazing places to witness in this amazing and historical town of Rajasthan.
Osian can serve you at its best if you are looking for a brief vacation to some historical, sacred, and spiritual kind of place with tons of enthralling activities. From camping under the twinkling stars to enjoying a ride on jeep safari, Osian knows how to cater to the needs of its visitors. Let’s know a little more about Osian…
WHEN TO VISIT OSIAN
The entire state of Rajasthan is known for its extreme temperatures, and Osian is not apart from it. Keeping this in mind, it is better to plan a trip to Osian, somewhere in between November and February. During these four months, the temperature here becomes pleasant and hence it becomes easier and fun to enjoy all those outdoor activities. In January, sometimes temperature even drops around 0 degrees centigrade leading to extremely cool weather.
PLACES TO VISIT IN OSIAN
Sachiya Mata Temple-
This temple is among the most famous attractions in Osian and is on a hill. This temple holds great importance both for Hindus and Jains as it is dedicated to the wife of Lord Indra, Goddess Sachiya Mata. After a flight of hundred steps, one can get a glimpse of this temple, which may not please the eyes at first, but sands and dunes all around it definitely will. The sheer aura of this majestic temple can be caught by countless carvings and sculptures in the temple. This place is amazing and requires a visit at least once.
Kali Temple-
Another worth visiting a place in Osian is its Kali Temple. The history of this famous Kali temple in Osian dates back to the 8th century AD. As the name of this temple suggests, it is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is the epitome of empowerment and is Goddess Durga. From location of the architecture of this temple makes it worth visiting. Besides amazing architecture and beauty all around, the temple has some amazing positive and spiritual vibes that can make a person feel pure from his soul.
Also Read, Undavalli Caves: A Masterpiece of Architecture
Surya Temple-
No trip to Osian can be attributed as complete without a visit to Surya Temple. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Sun God and is a major attraction for tourists in Osian. Besides having an idol of Sun God, the temple also houses idols of goddess Durga, Lord Ganesh. Because of this temple only, Osian is known as Khajuraho of Rajasthan. Temple also houses images of serpents around lotuses on the ceiling of the temple. There is an open mandap around this beautiful temple and is used for multiple purposes, such as ritual ceremonies and weddings that take place inside the temple’s premises. The structure of this temple resembles the Sun Temple of Ranakpur.
Mahavira Temple-
Another amazing temple in Osian to visit is The Mahavira Temple. This temple holds great importance for Jains as it was built in honor of the 24th Tirthankara of Jain Community, i.e. Lord Mahavira. The structure and architecture of this temple are a sight to behold. In the center of the temple, there is a huge 32-inch statue of Lord Mahavira in padmasana posture, made up of sandstone.
The main temple and sanctum Sanctorum is surrounded by some 8-9 smaller shrines in the inner courtyard. Also, every shrine has beautifully crafted statues all over the walls. In the inner courtyard of this temple, just behind the main chamber, there is an exhibition of some super amazing and beautiful paintings explaining the culture of Jainism and the life of Lord Mahavir. The place offers a great tranquillity and peace that can’t be compared with any other place.
Harihara Temple-
Harihara temples are another amazing place to pay a visit to in Osian. It is a conglomeration of three temples dedicated to Lord Harihara. These temples are in the southern part of Osian and it reflects great workmanship and architecture. Its uniqueness lies in its architecture. Two of these three temples were built in the 8th century and the last one was erected in the 9th century. A central idol of this temple is flanked by four other shrines called Panchvatan. Harihara temples are among the must-visits of Osian.
So, when are you going to plan your trip to Osian? If already visited, don’t forget to share your experience with us.
