About Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill
Shatrunjaya Hill above the town of Palitana carries more than 800 Jain temples, clustered in walled enclosures called tuks along its twin ridges. Jains believe that Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, preached here, and that countless souls attained liberation on the hill. The main temple of Adinath, rich with marble carving, crowns the summit.
Pilgrims climb about 3,500 stone steps before dawn, many barefoot and fasting, and must descend before dark because the hill is reserved for the gods at night. Nobody, not even priests, sleeps on the summit. Palitana also became the first city to ban the sale of meat because of its sanctity, a mark of the Jain principle of nonviolence.
What to see
- Adinath temple on the summit
- Some 800 temples in nine tuks
- Climb of about 3,500 steps at dawn
- Views over the Shatrunjaya River
- Angar Pir shrine, revered by Muslims, on the hill
Visiting Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill: practical guide
- Best time
- October to March
- Hours
- Climb from about 5 am; descend before sunset
- Entry
- Free; camera permit extra
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; no leather items
- Nearest airport
- Bhavnagar Airport (BHU), 55 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Start the climb before sunrise to beat the heat
- Dolis (carried chairs) are available for hire
- Do not carry food up the hill
Festivals and special days
- Kartik Purnima Yatra
- Phalguna Fera
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Jainism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove all leather items, including belts, shoes and wallets, before entering temples.
- Do not bring food into temple grounds.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
- Some temples ask menstruating women not to enter; follow posted guidance.
- Avoid photographing images in sanctums where it is prohibited.
- Do not touch monks or nuns or offer them food without guidance.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill?
Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill is in Palitana, Gujarat, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 21.4838, 71.7966. The nearest airport is Bhavnagar Airport (BHU), 55 km.
What is the best time to visit Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill?
October to March
Is there an entry fee for Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill?
Free; camera permit extra Opening hours: Climb from about 5 am; descend before sunset
What should I wear when visiting Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill?
Modest clothing; no leather items
Which religion is Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill sacred to?
Palitana Temples, Shatrunjaya Hill is sacred to Jainism. Active place of worship.
