Osian, Rajasthan
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Osian, a historic city that once was part of the silk trade during Gupta dynasty (3rd-6th century) rule and the capital of the Marwar dynasty during later years, is today a great destination known for divinity and fun with its ancient temples and desert tours. If you are looking for a desert tour away from crowded tourist spots, Osian is a fantastic place that combines a desert stay with plenty of activities and a rustic ambience. Treat yourself to a fascinating stay in a desert tent or a village roundhouse, enjoying the local cuisine and charming service. If the desert gets on your nerves, rush to the cluster of 18 temples, and you will be left marvelling at the exquisite architecture and sculptures built and sculpted between the 8th and 12th centuries. The town had over 100 temples, of which only 18 remain now. The winter months are the best time to visit Osian. The town is about 70 kilometres away from Jodhpur, the district headquarters. Jodhpur is also the nearest rail and air connection.
Nearby Places to See
Sachiya Mata Temple
This attractive and revered temple was built during the last years of the 9th century. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sachiya Devi, who was the chief deity of the Parmar kings. It is a fine temple with beautiful art on the outer walls. The sculptures, tower, eaves, and pillar designs are all wonderfully depicted.
This attractive and revered temple was built during the last years of the 9th century. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sachiya Devi, who was the chief deity of the Parmar kings. It is a fine temple with beautiful art on the outer walls. The sculptures, tower, eaves, and pillar designs are all wonderfully depicted.
Mahavir Temple
This is one of the oldest temples of Osian dating back to the year 783, built by Gurjara Pratihara dynasty king Vatsaraja. Additional sections of the mantapa and other parts were added during the 10th and 12th centuries. A statue of Jain Tirthankara Mahavir in Padmasana is worshipped in the sanctum. The main structure has beautiful sculptures all along the outer wall.
This is one of the oldest temples of Osian dating back to the year 783, built by Gurjara Pratihara dynasty king Vatsaraja. Additional sections of the mantapa and other parts were added during the 10th and 12th centuries. A statue of Jain Tirthankara Mahavir in Padmasana is worshipped in the sanctum. The main structure has beautiful sculptures all along the outer wall.
Other temples:
Vishnu Temple, Jain Dharmashala, Harihara Temple, Shiva Temple, and other temples, including ruined temples, all exhibit beautiful sculptural work and artistic towers (wherever the towers remain). A common note among all temples is the high platform.
Vishnu Temple, Jain Dharmashala, Harihara Temple, Shiva Temple, and other temples, including ruined temples, all exhibit beautiful sculptural work and artistic towers (wherever the towers remain). A common note among all temples is the high platform.
Desert Activities
This is where the fame of Osian is! A stay in the desert with local food is the ultimate combination. Being close to Thar desert, the town offers the double delight of camel rides, desert safari jeep rides along with the stay. It is a complete desert stay experience. Enterprising villagers have set up round-shaped huts to give that extra local fervour.
This is where the fame of Osian is! A stay in the desert with local food is the ultimate combination. Being close to Thar desert, the town offers the double delight of camel rides, desert safari jeep rides along with the stay. It is a complete desert stay experience. Enterprising villagers have set up round-shaped huts to give that extra local fervour.
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