India: Jaisalmer – Lodurva Parasawanath Jain Temple

Lodurva used to be the capital of the Bhatti Rajput kingdom long before Jaisalmer, from about 6th century till 11th. Frequent attacks of Islamic armies from present day Afghanistan necessitated moving the capital to a hilltop fort-city which created Jaisalmer. Not much is left of Lodurva today except an absolutely stunning temple (it was destroyed in the 12th century by invaders but restored in the 16th century once reclaimed by Jaisalmer maharajas). The temple is itself a mini-fort surrounded by high walls, while inside is an absolute masterpiece of delicately carved golden sandstone. Various deities and scenes of royal life intertwined with absolutely stunning hole-screened walls and ceilings. You just walk around totally awe-struck at how beautiful it is.
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