Osian is an oasis in the Thar desert of Rajasthan, famous for 18 ruined Brahmanical and Jain temples. These ancient temples were constructed between the 8th and  12th centuries. These ancient temples are in the Jodhpur district.

Osian temple

Sachiya Mata Temple, Mahaveera Jain Temple, Surya Temple (Sun Temple), and Kali Temple, situated in this historic city, are a real treat to your eyes. These temples are known for their exquisitely carved pillars. These temples resemble the temples at Khajuraho.  Hence, Osian is also known as the Khajuraho of Rajasthan.

Osian or Osiyan was a religious center during the reign of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. During the reign of Guptas, this town was also a prominent trading center. It was also a major center of  Brahmanism and Jainism for hundreds of years till 1195 when the Turkish and Muslim armies of Muhammed of Ghor attacked the town.  Many of the temples were destroyed on time. The residents of the city fled the area and never returned.  As per the 2001 census report, there are 12,452 inhabitants in this historic city. This small town is famous for its Osian sand dunes.

This historic town is an important pilgrimage town for Oswal Jain and Maheshwari communities. (Maheshwari is a sub-section of the Bania caste). There is an ancient  Mahavira temple in this town. Lord Mahavira, also known as  Lord Vardhamana, was the  24th Tirthankara of Jainism. He lived in the 6th century BC. Vardhamana temple here was constructed in A. D. 783, during the reign of Vatsaraj. He was the Gurjara Pratihara ruler of that time.

At its peak, this historic town of Osiyan had over 100 Jain temples.

How Do I Go to Osian Temple Jodhpur?

NH 11  which starts at Jaisalmer and ends at Jhunjhunu (both in Rajasthan state), passes through Osian.

Osian Railway Station is the nearest railway station. It is a small station. Jodhpur railway station is a major railway station well connected to other parts of India. Osian to Jodhpur’s distance is 67.8 kilometers. The nearest airport is Jodhpur.

Bikaner city is around 183 kilometers distance. Jaipur, the pink city, is located at about 354 kilometers.

Osiyan Hotels

Rawla Resort, Safari Camp, Camp Thar, Hotel Ganpati Plaza, etc, are some of the leading Osiyan hotels. Sand Dunes Resort & Camp is one of the top resorts in Jodhpur.