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JAIN TEMPLE · RAJASTHANKesariyaji
The revered temple of Rishabhdev (Kesariyaji) south of Udaipur, a rare pilgrimage shared by Jains, Hindus and tribal devotees.
A shrine shared across communities
Kesariyaji, at Rishabhdeo (Dhulev) around 65 km south of Udaipur, is one of Rajasthan’s most cherished Jain pilgrimages, built around a striking black-stone image of Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara.
It is beloved for the way it draws people together — worshipped by Jains as Kesariyaji, by Hindus as a form of the divine, and with special devotion by the region’s Bhil tribal communities, who revere the deity as Kalaji.
Set in the Aravalli foothills within easy reach of Udaipur and Jaisamand Lake, it is a peaceful, deeply venerated stop that many Gujarati Jain families include on their travels.
The venerated black-stone image draws pilgrims to Kesariyaji at Rishabhdeo.
Reasons to make the time
Revered Tirthankara
A striking black image of Rishabhdev.
Shared devotion
Honoured by Jains, Hindus and Bhil tribes.
Marble shrine
A serene, richly venerated temple.
Near Udaipur
An easy trip from the lake city.
Top sights in Kesariyaji
Photos via Wikimedia Commons
How to spend an hour or two
Take darshan
Visit the revered image of Rishabhdev.
Soak up the calm
Spend quiet time in the marble shrine.
Add Jaisamand Lake
Visit the vast lake not far away.
Continue to Udaipur
Pair the pilgrimage with the lake city.
Link the temples
Combine with Eklingji, Nathdwara or Ranakpur.
When to go
Pleasant weather for the shrine and the drive.
The Aravalli foothills turn green and fresh.
Hot outside, though the marble interior stays cool.
🙏 Kesariyaji is an active Jain tirth — dress modestly and follow the customs on leather items and photography.
Timings & entry
- The temple keeps daytime worship hours.
- Modest dress is expected; leather items are not allowed inside.
Getting there
By Air
Udaipur airport, about 90 minutes, is the nearest.
By Rail
Udaipur is the closest major railhead.
By Road
About 250 km from Ahmedabad; 65 km south of Udaipur.
Know before you go
Kesariyaji FAQ
What is Kesariyaji famous for?
A revered black-stone image of Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara, worshipped by Jains, Hindus and Bhil tribal communities alike.
Where is Kesariyaji?
At Rishabhdeo (Dhulev), about 65 km south of Udaipur in Rajasthan.
Why do Gujarati Jains visit Kesariyaji?
It is one of Rajasthan's most cherished Jain tirths and a common pilgrimage for Jain families from Gujarat.
How far is it from Gujarat?
About 250 km from Ahmedabad, with Udaipur the nearest airport and railhead.
What can I combine it with?
Udaipur, Jaisamand Lake, Eklingji, Nathdwara and Ranakpur are all within reach.
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