Arthuna, located in the Garhi Tehsil of Banswara district, Rajasthan, is a historically significant town renowned for its cluster of ancient temples dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Once the capital of the Paramara rulers of Vagada, It is a testament to the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Originally known as Utthunaka, Arthuna flourished under the Paramara dynasty during the 11th–12th centuries CE. The Paramaras, patrons of both Shaivism and Jainism, commissioned numerous temples, many of which still stand today. Inscriptions from this era, such as those by Prince Chamundaraja in 1079 CE, detail the construction of significant temples like the Mandalesa dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Hanuman Garhi Complex: A prominent temple cluster featuring the Nilakantha Mahadeva Temple, a stepped Surya Kund, and several shrines dedicated to Shiva, Hanuman, and Vishnu.
Chaunsath Yogini Temple: Also known as Pipaliya Mahadeva, this temple exemplifies the Maru-Gurjara architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings and a circular layout.
Jain Temples: Arthuna houses several Jain temples, including the Shri Nasiyaji Digamber Jain Atishaya Kshetra, featuring 49 stone-carved idols dating from the 11th to 12th centuries CE.
Arthuna’s temples are adorned with inscriptions in Sanskrit, written in the Nagari script. These inscriptions provide valuable information about the socio-religious landscape of the time, detailing temple constructions, patronage, and the genealogy of the Paramara rulers.
Location: Approximately 55 km from Banswara city.
Accessibility:
By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect Banswara to Arthuna.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ratlam Junction, about 115 km away.
By Air: The closest airport is in Udaipur, approximately 160 km from Arthuna.
Facilities: The site offers basic amenities, including parking and restrooms.
Arthuna stands as a remarkable destination for those interested in history, architecture, and spirituality. Its ancient temples and inscriptions offer a window into the rich cultural tapestry of medieval Rajasthan.
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