The Gori Temple Tharparkar, also known as Gori jo Mandar or Temple of Gori, is a Jain temple located in Nagarparkar, Sindh, Pakistan. It is situated about 14 miles northwest of the Viravah Temple.
The temple is believed to have been constructed in the year 1375-1376 CE, although the exact date is not confirmed. It was dedicated exclusively to Lord Parshwanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar.
The Gori Temple, along with other Jain temples in Nagarparkar, was included in the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status in 2016 as part of the Nagarparkar Cultural Landscape.
The temple has undergone name changes over the centuries. According to one account, it was built in 300 AD by a Jain devotee named Gorichom. However, another account suggests it was constructed in the 16th century.
In terms of architecture, the Gori Temple resembles the design of temples in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, India. It is constructed using marble and measures 125 feet by 60 feet. The temple is elevated on a platform reached by a series of stone-carved steps.
The interior of the temple features exquisite Jain religious imagery, which is older than the frescoes found in other Jain temples in North India. The temple is adorned with curved pillars, and the entrance canopy is decorated with paintings depicting Jain mythology. Additionally, the temple has 24 small cells, which may have served as places of worship for the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism.
The Gori Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nagarparkar, showcasing its architectural beauty and historical significance.
