Built in the 15th century in milk-white marble, the main temple of Ranakpur, Chaumukha Mandir (Four-Faced Temple, 8696453616; camera ₹100, audioguide ₹200), is dedicated to Rishabhadeva (Adinath), the first tirthankar (great Jain teacher), depicted in the many Buddha-like images in the temple. An incredible feat of Jain devotion, the temple is a complicated series of 29 halls, 80 domes and 1444 individually engraved pillars. The interior is completely covered in knotted, lovingly wrought carving, and has a marvelously calming sense of space and harmony. Entry includes audio guide.
Look out for carvings of five-bodied Akichaka, symbolizing the five elements and five negative attachments. Smoking, alcohol, food and drinks are barred, shoes and leather items must be left outside, and menstruating women are not admitted.
Also exquisitely carved and well worth inspecting are two other Jain temples, dedicated to Neminath (the 22nd tirthankar) and Parasnath (the 23rd tirthankar), both within the complex, and a nearby Sun Temple.
Most people combine a visit with a day-trip to Kumbhalgarh Fort.
