The Luna Vasahi Temple is situated a little above the Vimala Shah Temple. This temple was constructed by two brothers, Tejapala and Vastupala, who are perhaps the greatest builders of all time in Indian architectural history. They were the ministers of King Viradhavala. Apart from the Luna Vasahi Temple at Mt. Abu, the brothers also constructed numerous shrines; of these, only the Neminatha Temple of Girnar remains.
According to a famous legend, the brothers buried their money under a tree when on a pilgrimage, because of the instability in the country. When they again dug it out, they discovered more money than had been concealed by them. They were at loss of idea. Tejapala’s wife, Anupama Devi came to their rescue, suggesting they view the entire incident as an omen and to construct from their wealth temples in Shatrunjaya and Girnar. Later, as ministers they resolved to construct a temple in Mt. Abu in memory of their deceased brother, Luniga and to dedicate it also to the twenty-second Tirthankara, Neminatha.
The architect Sobhana constructed the Luna Vasahi Temple in 1231 AD at a time, when the Vaghela dynasty had practically overrun the Solankis; the brothers were closely involved in this project. This may explain the influence as well as the source of the wealth. From the point of view of style, however, the Luna Vasahi temple is similar to that of the Vimala Shah temple. It is probably the last great example of Solanki architecture. For transporting the stones, Tejapala himself financed the construction of the road with a gentle gradient. Later, this had to be demolished in the face of the Muslim threat. The logistical expenditure alone must have been enormous; for instance, special rest houses were constructed for the transport workers and the animals.
