The Jain temple in Bikaner, dedicated to Sumatinathji, the fifth Jain Tirthankara (founder of the Jain religion), is an architectural masterpiece built by a wealthy trader Bhandasa Oswal in 1468. The red stone of this two-story Jain temple is adorned with yellow stone carvings and colourful paintwork. Antarala, an Ardhamandapa, a Garbhgriha, and a Mahamandapa are all part of the temple complex. The pillars and walls of the'mandapa' and 'pancharatha' are covered in detailed murals with gold leaf patterns.
It's shocking to learn that the merchant built the temple with 40,000 kg of "ghee" instead of mortar, which drips from the walls under intense heat. Lord Sumatinath's idol is wonderfully fashioned out of white marble and sits on a silver throne. The priest of the temple is very welcoming. He is also well versed in more than 10 languages and communication is very easy. He will tell you more about the temple and its history.The architectural brilliance of the temple is displayed right from the entrance gate. There is intricate work on pillars and several paintings all along the walls of this famous temple.The Jain Temple's most outstanding feature is its pillars, which are covered with floral arabesque patterns and events reflecting the life of the 24 Jain saints.