Palitana temples, Jain temple complex in Gujarat, India.
Palitana is a sprawling assembly of Jain shrines built on Mount Shatrunjaya in Gujarat, numbering over 900 structures in white marble. The temples spread across several peaks and are linked by stone pathways and staircases that lead to different levels and courtyards.
The earliest shrines were built in the 11th century, though most structures date from the 16th century when wealthy merchants funded construction. Invaders destroyed the site multiple times, but Jain communities rebuilt it in the following centuries.
The name Shatrunjaya means "place of victory over enemies" and refers to inner spiritual struggles that pilgrims overcome here. On the summit, you see worshippers bowing, reciting prayers, and moving slowly from one shrine to the next.
The climb starts early in the morning because you must descend before sunset. Porters offer their services for those unable to manage the 3,800 stone steps on their own, and rest stations are placed along the route.
Everyone must leave the mountain before nightfall, so the shrines stand completely empty and silent each night. Even priests and guards spend the night outside, reinforcing the spiritual idea that the summit belongs to the divine alone after sunset.
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