Palitana Temples: Shatrunjaya Hill History, Steps & Guide

One of the holiest places for the Jain religion is the Palitana Jain Temples, nestled in the Shatrunjaya Hills of Gujarat. According to historical records, this temple is also known as “Padliptapur of Kathiawad.”

Palitana is also known as the “city of temples,” as it’s a collection of about 900 minor shrines and major temples. This is the most sacred place for the Śvetāmbara Jain. The main temple is dedicated to the first Tirthankara Rishabhanatha. Along the several ridges of the hills, in groupings known as Tonks (Tuks), is the Palitana temple complex, located close to the hill’s summit. If you want to know more about this style of temples, you can read our full section on Jain architecture.

Location – Palitana Jain Temples

Palitana is situated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is approx. 25 kilometers south of Songadh village and 55 kilometers southwest of Bhavnagar city. It is located close to the Shetrunji River. The Shatrunjaya Hills, the twin hilltops of the Palitana hills, rise to a peak elevation of around 600 meters about 2 kilometres south of the town.

The Steps Toward Temple – The Path to the Divine

Track of the Palitana temple starts in the southern part of the Palitana town. Beside the newly constructed Samovsaran Mandir and museum, close to a significant operating Jain temple, are stone-concrete stairs that lead to the temple complex. There are small temples along the way, and during the way there is a resting point and drinking water point for the visitors.

The steps split in two close to the fort. The Eastern side is the entrance for walking around the temple, and the other side is the exit. Track having over 3,500 stone stairs must be climbed during the walk.

Jain Beliefs and the Sacred Legacy of Palitana

According to Jain belief, 23 out of 24 Tirthankars, except Neminatha, visited this place. Due to that this place is more sacred for the Jain.

Jain traditions state that Lord Adinatha (Rishabhanatha) came to this place 700 million times. The Jain community considers Palitana and Shikharji in Jharkhand to be the holiest of all pilgrimage sites.

Mythology and History of Palitana

As we see, according to Jain traditions, Lord Adinatha (Rishabhanatha) came to this place 700 million times, which makes this place more sacred. Original name, “Pundrik Giri”, has the tale that Adinatha’s first disciple, Pundarika, achieved Nirvana here. So it’s named as “Pundarikgiri.”

According to Jain inscriptions, the 14th-century CE Shatrunjaya Mahatmya and the 14th-century CE Vividha Tirtha Kalpa mentioned the site’s spiritual significance. Shatrunjaya has 108 holy names that include Mahatirtham, Kailasa, and Siddhikshetra. The mythology connected with this is thought that Lord Rishabha gave his first sermon on the hill.

For decades, Palitana has continued to be a significant pilgrimage site. It is one of the five main pilgrimage places for Jain devotees.

Palitana Temples: A Sacred Site Shaped by Time

With roots in ancient Jain traditions, the Palitana temples are situated at the Shatrunjaya Hills. These temples were constructed, demolished, and reconstructed several times throughout the course of the following 900 years. Many historical scripts place the site’s first temples around the 11th century CE, while certain Jain literature claims that the location was worshiped as early as the first millennium BCE.

The 13th and 14th centuries are the key centuries for this temple. During this period the temple underwent major renovations. After that in the 16th century the temple was expanded and reconstructed. This whole phase was assisted by Jain leaders like Hiravijayasuri. During the period of 16th to 19th centuries the contemporary temples showcase the architectural brilliance of the Jain religion.

About 1,000 temples make up the temple complex, with 108 major temples divided among nine groups known as Tuks or Tonks. There are different temples dedicated to different Jain tirthankaras and are known for their carvings as well as their spiritual significance. Adinath Temple, Kumarpal Temple, Samprati Raja Temple, Vimal Shah Temple, Sahasrakuta Temple, Ashtapada Temple, and Chaumukha Temple are a few of the most notable temples.

The history of these hills takes turns when the important Jain leader Shantidas Jhaveri was given the Shatrunjaya site by Murad Baksh, the son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. That was the time of 1656. The Anandji Kalyanji Trust later assumed control of the temples’ administration in 1730 CE. As significant tales are behind this temple, this temple is the perfect combination of architecture and history.

Exploring the Temple Complex: The Tonks of Shatrunjaya Hills

Sheth Narasinh Keshavji Tuk
Chaumukhji Tuk (Sava-Som Tuk)
Chhipavasahi Tuk
Sakar Vasahi Tuk
Nandishwar Tuk
Hema Vasahi Tuk
Modi Tuk
Bala Vasahi Tuk
Motisha Sheth Tuk
Ghety Bari Tuk

A few of them have the names of the affluent donors who funded the construction.

Main Temples – Icons of Devotion

Palitana temples have over 1000 temples. Each temple has their own identity. Let’s explore the details of some significant temples of the Shatrunjaya hills:

1. Adinath Temple

The highest point of the Shatrunjaya Hills has the temple of Adinath. Three pradakshina paths connect significant temples. The Sahasrakuta, Chaumukh, and Ashtapada temples are among the other important temples that pilgrims explore in their three circumambulatory routes. It has a 7-foot white marble statue with crystal eyes. This temple has a large jewellery collection; with the permission of Anandji Kalyanji Trust visitors are allowed to see the collection. The prayer rooms of this temple are decorated with ornate dragon friezes.

2. Chaumukh Temple: The Four-Faced Wonder

This temple is one of the most impressive architectural structures in Palitana, built by Setthi Devaraj in 1616 CE. Four-faced white marble statue of Adinath gives the feel of the presence of Adinath. Veranda features rich carvings. The temple’s sanctity is increased by two sub-shrines dedicated to Gomukha and Chakreshvari. A similar four-faced (Chaumukha) plan is also seen at Ranakpur Jain Temple in Rajasthan.

3. Adishvara Temple

The Adishvara Temple, whose history goes back to the 16th century, is notable for its decorated spire and majesty. Main Idol Rishabhanatha, the first tirthankar, represents the Jain devotion. The carvings of the temple are very beautifully done which add beauty to the temple’s elegance.

4. Vimal Shah Temple: A Square-Shaped Architecture

The key attractions of this temple are the Saraswati Devi Temple and Narsinh Kesharji Temple. Samavasaran Temple has 108 elaborately crafted life sketches illustrating Tirthankara trips. Ashok tree and Chaitra tree are also among the notable stops during a visit to this temple.

5. Samvatsarana Temple

Located at the base of Shatrunjaya Hills, depicting Ashtapada (Mount Kailash), where Adinath attained moksha.

Architecture of the Palitana Temple – The Design and Style

The Palitana temple is an example of Māru-Gurjara architecture. The design of the temple was influenced by Solanki and Nagara temple design. The period when this temple was redeveloped is from the 16th to 19th centuries. The 19th-century temples constructed with assistance from the Anandji Kalyanji Trust are the most ornate and open-plan among the several Tuks at Shatrunjaya. The complex design and detailed carvings are very popular in Palitana temple. They had complex relief carvings, sculpted toranas, open pillared halls, and elegant arches, with precision-carved marble constructions gaining popularity in the nineteenth century. The garbhagriha maintains traditional features, and the temples use delicate domes with concentric designs to maximize space and light. This architectural style, which is also found in Gujarat and Rajasthan (like the Dilwara Jain Temple, Mount Abu), exemplifies how Jain temple design combines artistic and historical perfection.

The Evolution of Palitana – A Journey of Restorations

The restoration and development process is in continuation throughout, as this place has significant value in Jain religion. The sixteen very known and frequent renovations happened and that reflects its architectural and spiritual value. The son of Adinath, Bharat Chakravarti, is credited with the first refurbishment, while Indras from various heavenly realms, such as Ishaneshvar, Mahendra, Brahmendra, and Chamarendra, helped with subsequent restorations. The key role is played by historical characters including Sagar Chakravarti, King Chandrayasha, and Chakrayuddha, frequently with the help of Jain Tirthankaras. There is also a belief that the Pandavas, Rama, and Lakshmana from Hindu epics took part in the rebuilding work. Javadsha of Mahuva, Bahud Mantri, and Samarashah Oswal were among the merchants and kings who oversaw important rebuilding over time, especially following devastation by invading armies. An important turning point was the 16th century renovations spearheaded by Karama Shah of Chittorgarh, which secured a petition to remove the tourist charge and ensured the temples’ preservation. Another chapter in the temple’s enduring legacy is anticipated with the 17th renovation, according to Jain beliefs.

Spiritual and Cultural Importance

For every devoted Jain, climbing the Shatrunjaya hills is a once in a lifetime ambition since it is thought to help achieve nirvana. Visitors have to follow rules strictly; no one is allowed to eat or spend the night on the hill. During the time (October–November) on Kartik Poornima thousands of Jains participate in the Chha Gau Teerth Yatra, which involves walking 21.6 km around the hill and praying to Adinatha. Here, Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, the anniversary of Mahavira’s birth, is also celebrated in style with processions, fasting, and giving.

Navanu Pilgrimage: A Devotional Journey

Navanu is a unique Jain custom that entails 99 pilgrimages to Palitana, usually starting in the late teens or early twenties. Participants fast and exercise simplicity during this holy journey, which is completed annually by an average of 3,000 pilgrims.

Palitana’s Religious Activities

As a gesture of devotion, pilgrims who visit the Palitana temples frequently choose to climb the hill on foot. For older people there is a facility to use palanquins (dolis). During Phalguna (February/March) visitors have to travel 45 miles to visit five holy temples. Temple is closed during the monsoon season. Jains adhere to a strict code of non-violence, which includes using covered lanterns for aarti and covering their mouths during prayers to protect small insects. Fasting is generally observed during the trip and lasts until pilgrims get back at the Anandji Kalyanji Trust auditorium at the base of the hill.

Interfaith Connections: Jainism, Hinduism, and Islam in Palitana

Palitana is primarily a Jain pilgrimage destination, but it also has aspects of Islam and Hinduism. Along the trail are small Hindu temples honoring Hanuman, Devaki, and Hinglaj Mata. Since Jain tradition has belief that Krishna was a cousin of Tirthankara Neminath, he is also shown in several Jain temples. There is also the tomb of Angarsa Pir; some claim he tried to damage the Adinatha idol, while others think he saved the temples from destruction. The origin of this is still questionable as it doesn’t have any perfect proof to believe in this or not.

As a monument to the Jain faith, culture, and linked religious history, Palitana continues to be a revered and historically significant location that draws thousands of devotees annually.

How to Reach the Palitana Temple – A Travel Guide

Palitana has all the connectivity; it’s easy to reach here by train, road or air. The closest airport is Bhavnagar Airport, which is 55 kilometers distant. If travellers want to choose railway mode, Palitana offers decent railway connections to Mumbai and Bhavnagar. Furthermore, the city has good road access to all of Gujarat’s major cities, making travel easy for both pilgrims and visitors. You can also check the Gujarat Tourism page on Palitana and Shatrunjaya Hill for travel time from Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Vadodara.

Palitana Temples Quick Facts

Hello guys, I know this blog is long. So I am putting all the main facts in one small table for you. Just save it before your trip.

Detail	Information
Location	Shatrunjaya Hill, Palitana, Bhavnagar district, Gujarat
Old name	Padliptapur
Main deity	Lord Adinath (Rishabhanatha)
Sect	Mainly Śvetāmbara Jain
Number of temples	Around 900 (numbers differ by source)
Number of steps	Around 3,500 to 3,800
Climb distance	Around 3.5 to 4 km one side
Hill height	Around 600 m
Built over	Around 900 years, from 11th century
Style	Māru-Gurjara
Managed by	Anandji Kalyanji Trust
Nearest airport	Bhavnagar (around 55 km)
Closed	During 4 monsoon months (Chaturmas)

Palitana Temple Timings and Best Time to Visit

Now let me tell you about timing. The temple gate opens very early in the morning, around 4 am, and pilgrims must come down before evening, around 6 pm. Nobody can stay on hill at night, not even the priests. Timing can change sometime, so please confirm in Palitana town one day before.

If you ask me, the best time to visit is November to February. Weather is cool, so climbing 3,500+ steps feels much easier. Summer in Saurashtra is very hot. And during monsoon the yatra is closed for four months, so don’t plan in that time.

My simple tip is start the climb by 5 or 6 am. You will reach top before sun becomes strong, and morning view from Shatrunjaya is really beautiful.

Kartik Purnima 2026 at Palitana

The biggest day at Palitana is Kartik Purnima. On this day the hill opens again after the monsoon break. Thousands of Jain devotees come together and start the yatra from early morning.

In 2026, Kartik Purnima falls around 23–24 November (date can differ by one day as per Jain panchang). Honestly guys, if you are going in this time, book your dharamshala or hotel very early. Town becomes full and crowd is very big.

Rules and Dress Code at Palitana Temples

Palitana is very strict about rules, and I think this is good because it keeps the place pure. Here are the main rules:

No food or water is allowed to eat on the hill. You eat only after coming down.
No one can stay on the hill at night.
Wear simple and decent clothes which cover shoulders and knees.
Leather items like belt, wallet and bag are not allowed.
Remove shoes before entering any temple. Many devotees climb barefoot also.
No vehicles are allowed on the hill. You have to walk or take a doli.
Photography is restricted inside temples, so follow the boards.

Also one interesting fact. In 2014, Palitana become known as the first vegetarian city of the world, because sale of meat and eggs was stopped here after demand by Jain monks. So you will find only veg food in whole town.

Tips for Climbing Shatrunjaya Hill

The climb is not easy for everyone, so here are some simple tips from my side:

Carry light bag. Big bags make climb tiring.
Drink enough water before you start, because you can’t eat on top.
Wear comfortable socks if you want to climb barefoot later.
Take rest at the resting points. Don’t rush.
If you have knee pain or you are old, book a doli at the bottom. Price depends on weight and season, so ask before.
Normal people take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to climb up.

Places to Visit Near Palitana

If you have one more day, you can also see these places near Palitana:

1. Hastagiri Jain Tirth

This is another Jain hill temple, around 25 km from Palitana. It is newer and has nice marble work. Also less crowd then Shatrunjaya.

2. Vijay Vilas Palace

Old royal palace near Palitana with a mix of European and Indian style. Good for photography lovers.

3. Bhavnagar City

Around 55 km away. You can see Takhteshwar Temple, Gaurishankar Lake and the old city market.

4. Gopnath Beach

Quiet beach with Gopnath Mahadev temple. Nice place to relax after the tough climb.

If you are travelling more in Gujarat, you can also read my blog on Dwarkadhish Temple.

FAQs About Palitana Temples

Q1. How many steps are there in Palitana temple? There are around 3,500 to 3,800 stone steps to reach the top of Shatrunjaya Hill. Different sources give slightly different numbers.

Q2. How many temples are there in Palitana? There are around 900 temples and shrines on the hill. Some sources say up to 1,000 if small shrines are counted.

Q3. Is there any entry fee for Palitana temples? No, there is no entry fee for darshan. You only pay if you take a doli or for some special puja.

Q4. Can we eat food on Shatrunjaya Hill? No. Eating is not allowed on the hill. Pilgrims eat only after coming down.

Q5. When is Palitana temple closed? The hill is closed for pilgrimage during the four monsoon months. It opens again on Kartik Purnima.

Conclusion

More than just a pilgrimage, a visit to the Palitana Jain Temples is an experience that combines history, devotion, and stunning beauty. Palitana provides an idyllic retreat into a world of religion and peace, regardless of your spirituality or appreciation of old culture.

Writer’s POV

Honestly guys, when I was researching Palitana, the first thing which shocked me is the number. Around 900 temples on one single hill! I don’t think there is any other place like this in world. It is not one monument, it is a full temple city on a hill.

The second thing I really like is the discipline. No food on hill, no staying at night, no vehicles. In today’s time many religious places become very commercial. But Palitana still keeps its old rules, and I think this is why it still feels so sacred.

If you ask me for one tip, go in winter and start very early in the morning. Don’t think about the 3,500 steps too much, just climb slowly and enjoy the view. And if you are interested in Jain architecture, after Palitana you must see Ranakpur and Dilwara also. Together they show you the best of Jain temple design in India.

So these were all details about Palitana Temples. I have tried to cover history, architecture, rules, timings and travel tips. Keep on visiting The Indian Architecture for more info.

Also Read:

Palitana Temples – The Sacred Jain Pilgrimage in Gujarat