Osian (Osiyan) is an ancient town located 69 km by road north of the district headquarters at Jodhpur in Rajasthan. It is an oasis in the Thar Desert, and has been known as the “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” for its temples. Osian is famous as home to the cluster of ruined Brahmanical and Jain temples dating from the 8th to 11th centuries. The Surya or Sun Temple and the later Kali temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the main Jain temple dedicated to Mahavira stands out in their grace and architecture. Osiyan and the surrounding desert country is less visited and a more authentic place to experience desert village life, camping and a camel safari in the Thar Desert.
Surya Temple traces its origin in the 10th century. The structure of the temple is often compared with the Sun Temple at Ranakpur. As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Lord Surya or Sun God. The sanctum comprises the striking idol of Lord Surya. The main hall also has the idols ofLord Ganesha and Goddess Durga
Mahavira Temple In 783 A.D, the Jain Temple was built by Pratihara King Vatsa. Dedicated to Lord Mahavira (24th Jain Tirthankara), the temple is considered as an important pilgrimage of the Jains. The temple is celebrated for its stunning architecture. The main door is carved with an impression of young maidens on it
Sachiya Mata temple was built in the 8th century. However, the present temple was materialized during the 12th century. Sachiya Temple is dedicated to Sachi Mata. Wife of Lord Indra (Rain God),Goddess Sachi is also known as Indrani. The temple complex has two other shrines that are dedicated to Chandi Devi and Amba Mata respectively.
Harihara temples Dedicated to Lord Harihara (A union of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu), these temples are built on a raised platform. In the 8th century, the first two temples took their shape, whereas the third temple was built in the 9th century. The whole temples are resplendent with sculptures.The architecture of these temples is a little different and advanced as compared to the other temples of Osian.
Wildlife and Bird watching Destinations in Rajasthan “Kheechan near Phalodi in Rajasthan (Jaisalmer – Bikaner route) is renowned for being breeding ground for Demoiselle Cranes in winter. Every year though, around the month of August, is the turn of Demoiselle Cranes of Eurasia and Mongolia to migrate to Kheechan. Kheechan has become a natural sanctuary for these and Bird watching tours have become the major attraction for bird watchers.” Guests popularly stopover here enroute Jaisalmer – Bikaner route.
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