Osian—rightfully known as the Khajuraho of Rajasthan—is a temple-town replete with marvellous architecture. Home to 16 intricately carved temple sites against the backdrop of golden sand dunes, these spots are prime examples of magnificent craftsmanship. Plus, the town also doubled as a significant trading centre in the silk route during 8th to 12th century AD. So, if you are looking for a weekend getaway packed with historical and religious significance, Osian is just the place for you! By Angira Kar
What to see?
AdvertisementView this post on Instagram
When here, spend your days visiting some of the most beautiful vintage temples, such as the popular Sachiya Mata Temple. Dedicated to Hindu deity Indra’s wife, Sachiya Mata, this temple is of immense importance to the Hindu and Jain communities, alike. Although you have to climb 100 steps to reach the main shrine, the auspicious aura and the temple’s beauty backdropped by alluring deserts from the top feels worth it. Keep an eye out for the temple’s detailed carvings on the ceilings!
Another important pilgrimage site here is the Surya Temple which—as the name suggests—is dedicated to the Sun God. However, it even has idols of other deities like Ganesha and Goddess Durga, along with gorgeous paintings of serpents and lotuses. There is an open mandap around the temple, which is often booked for weddings or to perform various religious rituals. Then, the Kali Temple should be your next stop. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, symbolic of empowerment, this structure has been standing tall since the 8th century AD.
View this post on Instagram
Situated in Osian’s southern parts, the Harihara Temples are a cluster of three temples devoted to Lord Harihara. The workmanship on the stone walls here is one-of-a-kind as it points to the rich architectural knowledge of the engineers of the time. Housing a sandstone statue of the 24th Jain Tirthankara or spiritual teacher, Mahavira, the Mahavira Temple is a famous pilgrimage site for the Jain community. This temple also has paintings depicting Mahavira’s life while also elaborating the religion’s culture and beliefs.
Irrespective of where you go, you can spend your days soaking in the town’s tranquillity that is sure to make you feel like you are sitting in the presence of a higher power of strength, endurance and love.
Where to stay?
View this post on Instagram
The glorious Reggie’s Camel Camp, set in the Thar desert, is the sublime glamping experience you deserve for a pampering vacation. Despite being set in a remote place, there is no dearth of luxury here. From the best staff and fine dining options to the prettiest and most aesthetically pleasing rooms, this place is ideal. You can also enjoy glamping beneath the stars at Rohida Camp, Camp Thar, Safari Camp, or Osian Sand Dunes Resort and Camps.
Since Osian can be covered in one day, you could stay in Jodhpur too. In that case, you don’t have to worry about a luxurious stay option as the best palaces, resorts and hotels of the country are located here. Think The Ummed Jodhpur Palace Resort & Spa; Radisson Jodhpur; RAAS, etc.
How to reach?
View this post on Instagram
By air: You can fly to the Jodhpur Airport, the closest airport to Osian. The Jodhpur Airport is well connected to cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Udaipur.
By road: If you wish to visit by road, you can catch public and private buses from Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur or even New Delhi.
By rail: Jodhpur Junction is the closest railway station and is connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Jaisalmer, Guwahati, Bikaner, Jaipur, Kota, etc. Once you reach the station, hire a cab to get to your ultimate destination.
When to go?
This Rajasthani town is most pleasant during the winter months of November to February. January can get quite cold, especially during the night-time, so ensure you carry sufficient warm clothes to keep yourself warm and cosy.
Related: From Pushkar To Ajmer, Here’s How You Can Plan A Spiritual Trip To Rajasthan Post Lockdown
Bayar Jain
Senior Content Manager
Equipped with a degree in Sociology (Honours) from the University of Delhi, and a post graduate diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, Bayar enjoys sharing stories of people, places, and different cultures. When not typing her travel tales, you can catch the hobbyist photographer capturing the next frame, dabbling in arts and crafts, or gushing over puppers and kittens.
