Yes, Palitana is the first fully vegetarian city in the world. Palitana is a city in the state of Gujarat. Although it is a very small city, its reputation is spread all over the world. Most of the inhabitants are Jains. Many temples and legends of the Jains are known for the sleeping Palitana.
Palita’s became a vegetarian paradigm
In 2014, the state of Gujarat declared the city of Palitana as a free zone. Killing animals for food purposes is illegal here. The sale of eggs or meat is strictly prohibited. The ban came after nearly 200 Jain monks went on a hunger strike demanding the abolition of the consumption of meat as it was a Jaina minority area that would harm their customs and beliefs.
About Palitana:
The exact number of followers of Jainism is still unknown, but it is estimated that four to five million people worldwide are Jains. Situated at a distance of 50 km from Bhavnagar, Palitana boasts of being the only mountain town with a thousand temples. Palitana is sacred place for the Jains.
Shatranjay Mahathirth – Jain Pilgrim Centre:
The most famous place in Palitana. Shathuranjay Mahathirth is a pilgrimage center for the Jain community. More than 1,300 temples of marble are located on the Shatranjaya Hills. The main temple on the top of the hill is dedicated to Lord Tirthankara Lord Palitha. To reach the top of Mount Saranjaya, which is at a height of 591 m, one has to cross the 4 km long winding path. Dolly and lift chairs are available for those who have difficulty walking. There is another way to get to the top. It was an elephant ride. Temples above the peak are more than a thousand years old.
There are many small and large temples in Palitana. Each is associated with Jaina legends and their brave history. Most of these are on individual hills. It is made of the gold and silver offerings of the devotees.
How to Reach Palitana:
It is easily accessible by air and rail. The nearest airport is Bhavnagar which is about 51 kms from Palitana. Trains are available from all corners of the country as there are direct trains to the Paltana Railway Station. The sanctuary is easily accessible by road.
If you are a carnivore lover, Paltana travel can be frustrating. Or, if you want to visit Palitana, you can go vegan for a few days. All vegetarian lovers are welcome to visit the temple city of Palitana, which is a thousand years old, a historic place.