Palitana Rangmandap at Palitana Jain Temples Complex

The Jain Temples at Palitana, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for the Jain community, is a sacred complex over 200 years old, holding immense significance not only for its religious importance but also for its architectural grandeur. The dense collection of nearly 900 small and large shrines near the top of Shatrunjaya Hill, arranged in groups called Tonks (Tuks), were built over a period of 900 years starting from the 11th century. Pilgrims reach these temples by climbing approximately 3,500 stone steps along a steep and arduous trail. Annually, more than 500,000 pilgrims undertake this spiritual journey, only to arrive at the summit without a shaded respite—highlighting the need for an intervention that offers respite and comfort while respecting the sanctity of this sacred landscape.