The Ajmer Jain Temple, also known as Soniji Ki Nasiyan, is an architecturally rich and spiritually significant Jain temple built in the late nineteenth century. The temple is especially renowned for its main chamber, the Swarna Nagari, or “City of Gold,” which features several gold-plated wooden figures depicting scenes from Jain cosmology and history.
Greatly revered by the Digambar sect of Jains, the temple is dedicated to Lord Rishabhdev, the first of the 24 Tirthankaras. It was commissioned by Rai Bahadur Seth Moolchand and Nemichand Soni and is located on Prithvi Raj Marg in the heart of Ajmer, Rajasthan. The foundation was laid on 10 October 1864, and the image of Lord Rishabhdev (also known as Adinath) was installed in the sanctum sanctorum on 26 May 1865, under the guidance of the respected scholar Pandit Sadasukhdasji of Jaipur.
But the hidden gem in Ajmer is this very temple, Soniji Ki Nasiyan, also known locally as the Lal Mandir. Built over a century ago by a wealthy Jain businessman (a Seth), it houses a grand diorama hall that measures 90 feet by 65 feet by 92 feet. This hall contains a detailed model of a complete Jain city—Ayodhya Nagari—at the time of the birth of the Jain saint Adinath.
The diorama features an intricately designed three-story palace and scenes depicting everyday life in the city. Massive processions of elephants and horses are shown on the ground level, while devas or demigods descend on celestial planes to witness the birth of Lord Adinath in the holy city of Ayodhya. The surrounding walls are adorned with delicate glass paintings illustrating stories and teachings from Jain scriptures.
The atmosphere inside the hall radiates grandeur, divinity, and celebration. It is said that the models were first created and displayed in Jaipur before being transported here.
Viewing this golden city is a unique experience. Visitors can only see it through small glass windows built into the hall’s walls—for security reasons, entry inside the display area is restricted. Still, even through the glass, the view is awe-inspiring. You can’t help but imagine what it would feel like to step into this miniature golden city.
Strangely enough, I had never heard of this place until I stumbled upon it. It turned out to be the most unexpected and delightful surprise of my trip.