Osian is a small town located in Rajasthan's Jodhpur district close to an oasis in the Thar desert. This town is known for the numerous Hindu and Jain temples dating back to the 8th and 12th century. These temples were developed by the Marwar kingdom during the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. All of these temples are dedicated to Jain and Hindu deities and they stand out as architectural marvels.
History suggests that this town was also a major trading hub during the Gupta period. Even today, Osian continues to be a major tourism hub for those looking to see the best of architecture. Some of the famous temples in this village include the Sachiya Mata temple and the Surya Temple. For those looking for a day trip from Jodhpur, this place has got you covered, thanks to the innumerable temples here. A Jodhpur trip wouldn't be complete without exploring these remarkable spiritual sites.
Highlights
• Admire the architecture of the Mahavir temple and check out the massive Mahavir statue.
• Visit the Schiya Mata temple to check out this unique temple dedicated to the wife of the sun god, Surya.
• Experience the tranquillity of the Surya temple after exploring the premises and experiencing the best of calmness.
• Go on a jeep safari during the sunset time at Jodhpur and experience the thrill of racing at high speeds.
• Take a camel safari to explore the sand dunes of Jodhpur and the nearby localities of Osian.
• Opt for a heritage walk at Osian and check out the different types of temples in the locality.
How To Reach
- By Car: Osian is 75 km from the city centre, it will take 1 hour 24 minutes min via the SH 61 route.
Best Time To Visit
Osian is open throughout the year, so you can plan your visit to this place at any time of the year.
- The best season to visit Osian will be the winter season from November to February because this is the time when the climate is pleasant.
- The best day in the week will be the weekdays due to less crowds regardless of any time of the year.
- The best time of the day will be morning due to less crowds and a favourable temperature.
Other Essential Information
- Osian can get very hot during the afternoon, so it is recommended to carry enough sunscreen.
- During the safari, do not disturb the animals by tempting them with food.
- During the safari, do not click pictures of the animals using a flash as it can disturb them.
- Osian is a small town, so it is recommended to dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees.
- Osian experiences a very hot climate, so do stay hydrated and carry enough water during your time at Osian.
- For safety reasons, avoid travelling at night and be very mindful of your surroundings.
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Visit the Surya Temple
As the name suggests, the Surya temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, the sun god. Apart from Lord Surya, you can also find idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga in the premises. This temple is called the Khajuraho of Rajasthan and is known for its intricate architecture. Visitors can find images of serpents and lotus hanging from the ceiling of the temple. The temple also has a mandap which is widely used for conducting weddings and other rituals.
Visit the Sachiya Mata Temple
The Sachiya Mata temple is located on a hill north east from the Mahavira temple. This temple is one of the most sought after attractions in the city and is dedicated to the wife of Lord Indra. This temple has religious significance to both the Hindus and Jains and visitors will have to climb a fleet of stairs to reach the temple. The best part of this temple will be the stunning views from the top. There are multiple archways and as you enter the temple, you will be amazed by its carvings and architecture.
Visit the Mahavira Temple
This temple dates back to the Saka period of the 8th century and is dedicated to Lord Mahavira. The temple is known for the massive sandstone statue of Lord Mahavira in a meditating posture. On the walls of the temple, tourists can find carvings showcasing the life of Lord Mahavir and the Jain culture. Overall, the temple has a very calm and serene atmosphere which is worth experiencing. Tourists can also check out the additional 9 shrines located in the premises of the temple.