Palitana temples, Jain temple complex in Gujarat, India.

The Palitana temples stand near the top of the Shatrunjaya hills in Gujarat, India, as a dense collection of almost 900 shrines and temples grouped in clusters called Tonks along the ridges. The main temple is dedicated to Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, and marble is the preferred building material. The structures are enclosed by high stone walls, with clustered spires, domed shrines and stepped bases rising among trees.

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.