Temples in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer's best-known temples are the Jain temples inside the fort, a group of carved sandstone shrines built between roughly the 12th and 16th centuries. Their pillars, ceilings and doorways are some of the finest stone carving in Rajasthan, and they are still in daily use.
Beyond the fort, the old Jain temple at Lodurva and the Tanot Mata temple near the border are popular day trips. All of these are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow each temple's rules.
Chandraprabhu Jain Temple, Jaisalmer Fort
Jain templeLord Chandraprabhu, the 8th Jain Tirthankara
Laxminath Temple, Jaisalmer Fort
Vishnu · Krishna templeGoddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu together
Paraswanath Jain Temple, Jaisalmer Fort
Jain templeLord Parshwanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara
Rishabhanatha Jain Temple, Jaisalmer Fort
Jain templeLord Rishabhanatha (Adinath), the 1st Jain Tirthankara
Famous Temples in Jaisalmer
The Jain Temples in Jaisalmer Fort are a group of seven interconnected temples dedicated to Jain tirthankaras, including Parshvanath and Rishabhdev. They are known for their detailed carvings in yellow sandstone. Visiting hours for tourists are usually limited to the morning, so plan to go early.
Laxminath Temple, also inside the fort, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi and is easy to add to a walk through the fort lanes.
Lodurva Jain Temple stands at Lodurva, the old capital of the region, about 15 km from Jaisalmer. The temple is dedicated to Parshvanath and has a carved stone archway at its entrance.
Tanot Mata Temple is about 120 km from Jaisalmer, close to the border with Pakistan. It is looked after by the Border Security Force, and its small museum displays shells that were fired at the area during the 1965 war and did not explode.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Jaisalmer
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and legs.
- Leave leather items, such as belts, wallets and bags, outside the Jain temples.
- Wear shoes that are easy to take off, as you will enter barefoot.
- Visit the Jain temples in the morning, as they usually close to tourists around midday.
- Do not eat or drink inside the temples, and keep your phone on silent.
- Ask about photography rules; some temples charge for a camera.
- For Tanot Mata, carry ID, water and snacks, and do not photograph army or BSF posts.
Questions
Jaisalmer — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Jaisalmer?
The best-known temples are the Jain temples inside Jaisalmer Fort, Laxminath Temple in the fort, the Jain temple at Lodurva and Tanot Mata Temple near the border.
When can tourists visit the Jain temples in Jaisalmer Fort?
The Jain temples are usually open to visitors only in the morning, closing around midday. Timings can change, so check at the fort and go early.
Can I carry leather into the Jain temples in Jaisalmer?
No. Leather items such as belts, wallets and bags are not allowed inside the Jain temples. Leave them outside or in your room before you visit.
How far is Tanot Mata Temple from Jaisalmer?
Tanot Mata Temple is about 120 km from Jaisalmer, a drive of around two and a half to three hours each way. It is open to visitors, but it is close to the border, so carry ID and follow the rules at checkpoints.