Patan: Architecture, Patola and Cultural History

When choosing a hotel in Patan, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip: architectural history, Jain temples, Patola craftsmanship or science education. Patan’s attractions range from medieval architecture to a weaving tradition maintained across generations. This lets you plan your trip around the interests that matter most to you.

Architecture, Temples and History in Patan

Rani ki Vav was built in the 11th century as a memorial to King Bhimdev I. The stepwell is constructed in the Maru-Gurjara style and takes the form of an inverted temple. The site can therefore be understood in terms of both its historical dedication and its unusual architectural concept.

Sahasralinga Talav tells a different story: the water tank was commissioned during the Chaulukya rule, also known as the Solanki rule. It was originally known as Durlabh Saravor and was built by King Durlabh Raja. Nearly 1,000 small temples were built between the inlet and RudraKupa. The complex thus combines a historic water structure with numerous small religious buildings.

Panchasara Jain Temple is located in the center of Patan. At Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Derasar, the domes, pillars, ceilings, walls and mandaps are covered with sculptures. The Derasar’s sculptural ornamentation creates a different architectural emphasis from the inverted temple form of Rani ki Vav and the water complex of Sahasralinga Talav.

Patola Craftsmanship and Science

Patola weaving is closely associated with the Salvi family. According to tradition, King Kumarpal invited Patola-weaving families, including the Salvi, to settle in Patan in the 12th century. The Salvi family has preserved the art of Patola weaving for 35 generations. The family associated with the Patan Patola Heritage Museum has specialized in double ikat weaving since the 11th century.

The Patan Patola Heritage Museum also displays single ikat textiles, with examples ranging from Uzbekistan and northern Thailand to Holland. This allows the local Patola tradition to be viewed alongside a broader range of woven textiles, without losing sight of the Salvi family’s distinctive history.

The Regional Science Centre in Patan offers a different way to explore knowledge. It presents the development of science and technology and their applications to improving quality of life. Its program formats include exhibitions, seminars, accessible lectures, science camps and other activities. If a particular format is important to your plans, check the current program in advance.

Other Places in Patan District

Beyond the city of Patan, the district offers other distinct attractions. In Siddhpur, the annual Matru-Shraddh ceremonies take place at Kapilamuni Ashram; Gyan Vapika, Alpa Sarovar and Bindu Sarovar are also located there. Check the dates and participation requirements for the ceremonies before planning your visit. Bindu Sarovar in Siddhpur is considered one of the five holiest and oldest lakes in India.

Another cultural highlight of Siddhpur is Bohra Vad: the old havelis and mansions there have a distinctly European style, and some are over 100 years old. In Shankheshwar, the Jain temple is dedicated to Parshwanath and is an important pilgrimage site for followers of Jainism. These places broaden the picture of the district, but should be distinguished from the attractions within the city of Patan.

Patan has a railway station. State Transport Corporation buses connect Patan with all the major cities and towns in Gujarat, as well as with other Indian states. Check the specific connections for your travel date if you want to coordinate your arrival with your choice of accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Shankheshwar.

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