subject: Where Outside Appearances Are Deceiving Chintamani Jain Temple [print this page] Surat is one of the oldest towns in Gujarat, India. Founded by Gopi, a Brahmin who rose to the position of Prime Minister, Surat is situated along the south bank of the river Tapti. This arc shaped town is about 20 Km away from the Arabian Sea and served as a vital trading point from as early as the 14th Century. With its many textile mills, and flourishing textile industry, it is no surprise that this city is mentioned even in the Mahabharata. Surat is also famous for its diamond cutting industry. As part of its attractions, Surat also boasts of an abundant wildlife population, in the form of tigers, leopards, wild boars and panthers.
Another famous attraction is the Chintamani Jain Temple. This was built during the 15th century. Situated near Mirjan Shami's Mausoleum at Mugal Sarai, it was built during the reign of Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor.
Although relatively plain on the outside, the interior of the temple is so intricate and beautiful and is anything but plain. In fact the temple is considered to be an outstanding example of architecture and craftsmanship in Gujarat. The numerous wooden pillars have curved brackets on top and are hand painted with vegetable dye.
It also boasts of paintings- most of them rare - done by King Kumarpala, Solanki King, and Acharya Hemchandra, the Jain preacher. The temple has even been replicated in sandalwood and enjoys a place of honour at the London Museum for about 90 years now.
Visitors to Gujarat will enjoy visiting industrial Surat and all it has to offer, including the wonderful Chintamani Jain Temple. If visitors are looking for a Surat hotel that offers comfort, luxury, quality and peace then The Gateway Hotel Athwalines Surat with its spectacular river views, and state of the art amenities will be ideal.
