Located in the middle of the vast Thar desert, Osian is an ancient town with many sights to be explored. Many JODHPUR TOUR PACKAGES offer a tour of this town which is a popular site for activities like Desert camping and desert safaris. It is one of the famous oases of Rajasthan. Osian , which is often also referred to as Osiyan, is a fertile wonder in the midst of the great desert of Thar which is a popular destination listed among places to visit in Jodhpur. 

Facts about Osian

During the rule of the Gujara Pratihara dynasty, the town of Osian was one of the prime religious destinations of Marwar. Due to this, we can find innumerable Hindu and Jain places of worship here today. This place is very often alluded to as the ‘Khajuraho of Rajasthan’.  The group of 18 Brahmanical and Jain shrines present there are in ruins today, owing to the violent attack of Muhammad Ghori and his army in the year 1195. However, the place retains its mystical stance and manages to attract crowds of tourists who are left in awe of this place and its temples. Some of the significant shrines here are: The Surya Temple, The Sachiya Mata Temple, The Katan Bawari and The Jain Temple dedicated to Mahavira, which is an important part of Jain architecture. 

Brief history of Osian

Some evidence suggests that earlier names of Osian could be Uvasisala, Ukesa and Upkesapur-Pattana. Osian is believed to have been a very early settlement which practised Brahmanism. It was also a major stopping spot for travellers and camels, back during the Gupta period as well. Traditionally it is said that the town being uninhabited after sometime was then taken over and established again by Utpaladeva. It is Utpaladeva who is said to have converted into Jainism and established the town as a Jain centre for worship too. However, traces of followings of Jian culture can also be found before his reign.

Specialities of Osian

Osian is famous for its activities like Desert Safari and Sand dune camps. Often many people are found shooting pictures and videos on this location for either film clips or even their weddings. Many cultural activities can also be enjoyed here in the various resorts, like traditional dance and singing functions and also authentic Rajasthani cuisine.