Fact File

Talaja Hills Bhavnagar

Located at the confluence of the Sarita and the Shatrunjaya rivers, Talaja lies at a distance of approximately 32 kilometers from Palitana, the most important religious town for Jainism. At the same time, Talaja Hills are known to be of religious importance not only for Jainism, but also for Buddhism and Hinduism. The Talaja Hill is round 320 feet high and houses 30 ancient Buddhist caves that run into the rocks. These caves are known are known to have fine carvings of Boddhisatva. Another place of historical importance in the caves is the Ebhala Mandapa, which is a large hall with four pillars. These pillars have an impressive octagonal shape.

Apart from the caves, there is also a Hindu Temple of Khodiar Mata and a Jain Derasar on Talaja Hill. The Jain temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Sumatinath, the fifth Tirthankar of the Jains. This temple is known to have a tremendous religious significance for Jains. There is a lamp here that is known to burn continuously and miraculously. It also emits a saffron powder, which is considered auspicious. Even the idol of Lord Sumatinath is known to posses many miraculous powers.

The Khodiyaar Temple, on the other hand, is known to be around 700 years old.

Another interesting thing about Talaja is the fact that this town is also the birthplace of renowned poet Narsinh Mehta. While one can visit his house when they are there, there is little they will find in terms of historical importance apart from a sign that points to his birthplace.

History

Not much is known about the history of Talaja. However, the caves are said to be as old as 2000 years. Also, the Jain temple is known to be built during the era of King Kumarpal in the 12th century AD. It also bears references to the era of Kim Samprati who ruled around the 16th and 17th century AD. The temple was last removed during the year 1872.

Best Time to Visit

Although Talaja Hill is closed during the monsoons, summers in Gujarat are known to be harsh with the mercury rising as high as 40 degrees centigrade. So the best time to visit Talaja is during November to February. This will ensure that the climate is pleasant and you get to enjoy all of the different places of historical and religious significance at leisure. There are a number of dharamshalas (religious inns) here as well as hotels where one can stay during their visit to Talaja.

How to Reach Talaja Hills

By Road

There are many state transport buses and private buses that travel from Bhavnagar (56 kms from Talaja), Ahmedabad (200 kms) and Mumbai (791 kms) via the State highways. One can also hire a private taxi from Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar and other nearby towns to reach Talaja.

By Rail

Talaja is situated on the Western Railway and is at a distance of 777 kms from Mumbai via Ahmedabad. There are also trains coming in from Bhavnagar which stop at Talaja en route to Palitana.

By Air

There are many domestic flights from Mumbai to Bhavanagar and Ahmedabad. From any of these locations you will have travel either by road or rail.