Osain(Camel-Safari)
The ancient town of the Thar Desert was a great trading center
between 8th to 12th centuries AD. Today it is a desert oasis with 16 Brahamanical and Jain temples. These are beautifully sculpted and designed, and most of them have stood the ravages of time. The highlight of this place is its camel ride at the time of the sunset. The tourists have the liberty to watch the architectural forms during camel ride. "Camel ride to sunset" - a unique experience Camel Safari is one of the exclusive adventurous way to explore desert. Enter in the desert at camel-back "the ship of the desert" is most thrilling and soft adventure. Riding a camel is not as simple as people believe. It is neither a great trial for patience. It is an immense experience to discover The Thar - a vibrantly, living, desert, very colourful and friendly. Take a camel safari to experience the immeasurable Thar Desert of Osain.
Sachiyay Mata Temple: The Ossian Sachiya Mata temple near Jodhpur was originally built in the 8th century. However, the temple complex that now stands dates back to the 12th century. The Sachiya Mata Osiyan Temple in Rajasthan is dedicated to Sachi Mata. Sachi Mata, also known as Indrani, was the consort of the rain-god Indra.According to the legend, Indra married her for her voluptuousness. The main shrine, along with the other two temples - the Chandi Ka Mandir and the Amba Mata Mandir, was constructed around circa 1178.
For entering the Sachiya Mata temple complex, one can use a series of magnificently sculpted arches. The temple complex was built in several phases, rather than in one go. Inside it are beautiful images and sculptures of Hindu deities. Located at the north-end of the complex is a sculpture of Varaha (boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu). And to the east is an image of Vishnuji with Lakshmiji. Lying to the west is a stone slab coming out of the walls, full of sculptures.
Mahavira (Jain) temple: An ancient Jain temple, well worth the visit, lies in the village of Osiyan, about 60 km outside Jodhpur. There are many sections of this temple, which was built in several distinct phases.
Surya (Sun) Temple:The Ossian Surya Temples near Jodhpur was constructed in the 10th century. It is quite similar to the Sun Temple at Ranakpur. Surya Osiyan Temples in Rajasthan are dedicated to the Sun god, Surya. The inner complex of the temple houses the statue Surya. Also within the temple complex are the sculptures of the Ganeshji and Durga Mata. There is also an open mandap (a platform for wedding and other ceremonial rituals) in the temple.
The first Surya temple, dating back to the 8th century, has been incorporated into the Sachiya Mata temple complex. On its ceilings are images of serpents curled around lotus flowers. Below it is portrayed the life-story of Lord Krishna. Quite opposite to this, the entrance has erotic images of couples clutching each other in amorous embraces.
Inspite of all the beauty and splendor, the Ossian Surya Temples are ignored. The grace of the temples is slowly fading away due to neglect. The apathy is causing the temples to loose their sheen.
Location : Osian/ Jodhpur - 65Km One Way From Jodhpur
