Palitana in Gujarat is known to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in Jainism, with a history extending back to the times of early Jain scriptures. This city, nestled on the Shatrunjaya hills, is revered for its complex of Jain temples which is considered by many to be the world's largest such temple complex.
The history of tourism in Palitana is deeply entwined with the religious significance of the Shatrunjaya hills, which are believed to have been first sanctified by Lord Adinatha, the first of the Jain Tirthankaras. Over the centuries, the desire for spiritual merit and the tradition of performing pilgrimages led to increasing numbers of Jains and other tourists visiting the area. The construction of temples started by wealthy merchants and patron kings around the 11th century AD and continued through the 12th century. However, it reached its zenith between the 16th and 19th centuries, during the Mughal period and the early British era.
The turning point for Palitana tourism came with the British colonial period, which saw infrastructure development that facilitated easier access for pilgrims and tourists. Nonetheless, Palitana remained a niche destination, frequented mainly by those on spiritual journeys, until the late 20th century.
In recent years, Palitana has seen a diversification in tourism. While it remains a predominantly religious site, efforts to market it as part of broader travel circuits in Gujarat have seen success. There is an increasing trend of combining visits to Palitana with nearby destinations such as Gir National Park, home to Asiatic lions, and the culturally rich city of Bhavnagar.
The latest trend includes eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices in response to the environmental concerns associated with the increase in foot traffic. Measures have been implemented to reduce the ecological impact on the sacred hill. Additionally, there has been an increase in the promotion of vegan and vegetarian cuisine, in line with Jain principles, which has attracted tourists who are interested in experiencing different culinary traditions while maintaining an ethical diet.
As a response to the digital age and modern tourism demands, Palitana is also seeing a rise in online presence with virtual tours and online information portals becoming more common. This reflects the broader trend of technology integration into the travel experience, allowing potential visitors to preview the sights and sounds of Palitana before they embark on their journey.
Hill Stations (5)
Beaches (23)
Religious Places (97)
Historical Places (113)
Museums (29)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (8)
National Parks (7)
Forts (5)
Villages (2)
Zoos (5)
Mountains (2)
Island (3)
Gardens (21)
Dams (10)
Lakes (11)
Trekking Places (4)
