Osian Tourism

Travel To Osian (Osiyan) Rajasthan Near Jodhpur, A Religious Centre In Marwar, A Major Jain Pilgrimage Centre, An Oasis In Thar Desert, For The Beautiful Cluster Of Ancient Jain Temples, Camping And Camel Rides.

Osian near Jodhpur is an ancient town and used to be a trading centre of renown from 8th to 12th centuries. An oasis in the Thar desert of Rajasthan, it has a cluster of Hindu and Jain temples built around the 8th century, lending it the status of an important Jain pilgrimage centre. Some of the temples have inscriptions going back to 783 AD. It is believed that the earlier inhabitants of Osian were of Naga extraction, i.e. snake worshippers and were later converted to Jain religion.

The temple complex includes a Sun Temple, a Kali Temple, and the main Jain temple. These temples stand on high terraces. The temples are made of red sandstone and as is typical of the region, have exquisite carvings and beautifully decorated walls. The Sun temple is the oldest in this cluster and its impressive doorway is considered to be among the finest temple doorways in India. Among other temples of note are the Harihara I and III temples and the Vishnu temples III, IV and V.

For the tourists, Osian is an opportunity to not just view some exquisite temple architecture but also experience the desert in utmost comfort with a stay in a luxurious camel camp. Guest can also experience camel rides and enjoy the performing arts of Rajasthan. Osian is easily accessible from Jodhpur, Khimsar and Nagaur and also makes an ideal base camp for safaris towards Jaisalmer. If starting your travel into Rajasthan first with Jaisalmer, then the reverse plan for safaris can be followed.