A remarkable diversity of cultures, faiths, and traditions can be found throughout India. Jainism is one of the many faiths that Indians practice. The nation’s traditional religion preaches living a life of sanctity and harmlessness while learning the path to freedom and happiness.
Throughout the nation, numerous Jain temples have been constructed to honour this pious religion of India. These locations are revered for their architecture in addition to their religious significance. Numerous Jain sites can be found throughout the nation in a variety of locations.
Discovering the 12 Most Renowned Jain Pilgrimage Sites in India:
The following list includes some of India’s well-known Jain sites and temples that every traveller should see.
1. Dilwara Jain Temple, Rajasthan
The stunning Dilwara Jain Temple is a shrine for Jainists, and it is located on Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan. The temple has become one of India’s most impressive Jain pilgrimage places thanks to its unique and distinctive structure, which is known worldwide.
It is thought that this intricately carved Dilwara Temple was built in the 12th century. Visitors to this pilgrimage destination are drawn in by the impressive and detailed sculptures on the interior walls of the building. 360 mini Jain Tirthankara statues can be found in its hall. Read More: Exploring the Magnificent Dilwara Jain Temples: Mount Abu’s Hidden Gem.
Why Visit: Known for its exquisite marble architecture and intricate carvings, this temple complex is a prime example of Jain craftsmanship.
Key Highlights:
- Five temples dedicated to different Tirthankaras, with Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi being the most notable.
- Stunning ceilings, pillars, and sculptures depicting Jain teachings.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport (185 km); taxis and private cars are available for a scenic drive to Mount Abu.
- Nearest Railway Station: Abu Road Railway Station (29 km); frequent buses and shared taxis to Mount Abu.
- By Road: Well-connected by NH 27. Buses and taxis are available from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur.
Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and appreciate the serenity.
2. Khajuraho Temples (Shantinath), Madhya Pradesh
The erotic statues that adorn the majority of the temples at this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site have gained popularity. The town does, however, also have a number of Jain temples that date back more than a thousand years.
These Jain temples in the eastern section of the town are excellent examples of mediaeval Indian architecture. The most well-known of these Jain temples is Shantinath Temple. One of the seven Jain temples constructed inside the Golden Fort in the sixteenth century is called Shantinath.
Why Visit: Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khajuraho Group of Monuments, the Shantinath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shantinath, the 16th Tirthankara.
Key Highlights:
- Intricate carvings blending Jain and Hindu artistic styles.
- Historical significance dating back to the 10th century.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport (5 km); daily flights connect it with Delhi and Varanasi.
- Nearest Railway Station: Khajuraho Railway Station (6 km); linked to major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Jhansi.
- By Road: Connected via NH 39 and state highways. Buses and taxis from Jhansi (175 km) and Satna (116 km).
Tips: Combine with a visit to nearby Hindu temples for a holistic experience.
3. Shatrunjaya Hill, Gujarat
In the Indian state of Gujarat, Palitana is home to the Shatrunjaya Hill, also known as Satrunjaya or Shatrunjaya, a hilltop temple complex. The complex, situated on a hill, is made up of more than 900 Jain temples dispersed over a wide area.
In order to circumambulate the hill or parikrama, pilgrims frequently trek around its base while stopping at numerous temples along the way. The parikrama is performed as a symbol of respect and is frequently carried out barefoot or in wooden shoes.
Why Visit: A sacred hill in Palitana, home to over 900 exquisitely carved temples.
Key Highlights:
- A major pilgrimage site where every Jain aspires to visit at least once.
- Dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara.
- Offers panoramic views after a climb of 3,800 steps.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Bhavnagar Airport (51 km); private taxis and buses to Palitana are readily available.
- Nearest Railway Station: Palitana Railway Station; limited connectivity, better options via Bhavnagar Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected via buses and taxis from Bhavnagar (51 km) and Ahmedabad (214 km).
Tips: Start early to complete the climb comfortably; carry water and light snacks.
4. Sammed Shikharji, Jharkhand
Sammed Shikharji is a mountain peak in the Parasnath Hills of Jharkhand, India. It is also referred to as Sammet Shikhar or Sambhavanatha Hill. Numerous Jain pilgrims visit it annually, and it is one of the most revered Jain pilgrimage sites in India.
The peak is the tallest mountain in the state of Jharkhand, rising to a height of 4429 feet. It may be found in the Giridih district, which is well-known for its Jain temples and sacred places. According to Jain tradition, the mountain is where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras gained nirvana.
Why Visit: One of the holiest sites for Jains, where 20 Tirthankaras attained Nirvana.
Key Highlights:
- Scenic trekking trails through Madhuban Forest.
- Temples spread across Parasnath Hill.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Ranchi Airport (190 km) or Kolkata Airport (290 km); taxis and buses to Parasnath.
- Nearest Railway Station: Parasnath Railway Station (24 km); shared jeeps and buses available to Madhuban village, the trek’s starting point.
- By Road: NH 19 connects Parasnath with cities like Ranchi, Patna, and Kolkata. Private vehicles and buses are widely available.
Tips: Wear comfortable footwear for the trek; guided tours are available for a better experience.
5. Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh
It is a significant Jain pilgrimage place home to numerous historic Jain temples. The shrine of Adinatha, which honours Rishabhanatha, the first Jain Tirthankara, is the most important in Deogarh. Red sandstone was used to construct the temple, renowned for its beautiful carvings and sculptures.
Other temples in Deogarh include the Temple of Parshvanatha, the Temple of Shantinatha, and the Temple of Neminatha, in addition to the Temple of Adinatha. One of the best collections of Jain architecture in India is thought to be represented by these temples.
Why Visit: An important Jain center with ancient sculptures, temples, and inscriptions.
Key Highlights:
- Over 40 Jain temples built between the 8th and 17th centuries.
- Beautiful rock carvings and serene surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Gwalior Airport (235 km); taxis and buses to Deogarh.
- Nearest Railway Station: Lalitpur Railway Station (33 km); local transport like buses and shared autos are available.
- By Road: Accessible via NH 44 from Jhansi (123 km) and Gwalior. Private cabs and state transport buses are available.
Tips: Allocate time to explore the archaeological significance of the site.
6. Shravanabelagola, Karnataka
In addition to being a significant Jain pilgrimage destination, Shravanabelagola is also home to the historic Gommateshwara Bahubali temple. The Gommateshwara statue, situated atop the town’s Indragiri hill, is the source of the town’s name.
Numerous Jain institutions and libraries are located in Shravanabelagola, an influential Jain culture and scholarship hub. When the Gommateshwara statue is ritually anointed, which takes place once every 12 years during the Mahamastakabhisheka festival, it becomes exceptionally well-liked.
Why Visit: Home to the colossal statue of Lord Bahubali, standing at 57 feet, and one of Jainism’s most iconic pilgrimage sites.
Key Highlights:
- Mahamastakabhisheka, a grand ritual held every 12 years.
- Stunning views from Vindhyagiri Hill after a climb of 600 steps.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (157 km); taxis and buses connect to Shravanabelagola.
- Nearest Railway Station: Hassan Railway Station (52 km); buses and taxis frequently run to the site.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Bangalore (145 km) and Mysore (85 km). State transport and private buses operate daily.
Tips: Start early to beat the heat and explore the surrounding temples.
7. Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan
The Ranakpur Temple dates to the fifteenth century, is an important Jain pilgrimage site and is frequently hailed as a global architectural landmark. It takes place in the village of Ranakpur, 95 miles north of Udaipur. With the assistance of the Mewar monarch, a well-known trader of the era named Dharna Shah constructed the temple.
Jain scriptures that have been expertly etched can be found everywhere. When choosing the “7 Wonders of the World”, the ancient Ranakpur Temple was ranked among the top 77 wonders. The temple is undoubtedly a gem that shines throughout the regal state of Rajasthan.
Why Visit: Known for its breathtaking marble architecture and intricate carvings.
Key Highlights:
- Dedicated to Lord Adinath, featuring 1,444 uniquely carved pillars.
- A tranquil setting amidst the Aravalli Hills.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport (90 km); private taxis and buses to Ranakpur.
- Nearest Railway Station: Falna Railway Station (34 km); taxis and autos are available to the temple.
- By Road: Connected by state highways to Udaipur and Jodhpur. Private cars and buses operate regularly.
Tips: Photography is allowed but requires prior permission.
8. Kulpakji Temple, Telangana
A well-known Jain pilgrimage site that dates back to the 10th century, Kulpakji Temple is located in the Telangana village of Kolanupaka. Under the support of the Kakatiya Dynasty, this area was a well-known Jain centre. Lord Adinath, the primary Tirthankara of Jainism, is the subject of this shrine.
Eight more Tirthankara idols can be found on either side of the temples. Lord Mahaveer’s main sculpture is huge and constructed of rare stone jade. The temple, which is about 2000 years old, has ancient inscriptions. The Kulpakji Temple exemplifies the majesty and splendour of the past.
Why Visit: One of the oldest Jain temples in South India, dating back to the 10th century.
Key Highlights:
- Dedicated to Lord Mahavir and home to ancient Jain manuscripts.
- Stunning white marble architecture with intricate carvings.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (80 km); taxis and private cars available.
- Nearest Railway Station: Secunderabad Junction (85 km); local buses and cabs are easily accessible.
- By Road: Located near NH 163; buses and private vehicles from Hyderabad connect to the temple.
Tips: Combine with a visit to nearby Buddhist sites for a cultural tour.
9. Dharmanath Temple, Kerala
The Dharmanath Temple, situated in the Kerala town of Mattancherry, is revered for its spiritual importance worldwide. This religious landmark, constructed in 1904 and bears the name of the 15th Tirthankara, Dharmanath, is over a century old.
The Jain community, who immigrated to this area from Gujarat and Rajasthan, values this sacred site greatly. The ageless architecture of the century-old building never fails to draw tourists. The Dharmanath Temple provides the ideal environment for achieving salvation or inner serenity.
Why Visit: A significant Jain pilgrimage site in the southern region, dedicated to Lord Dharmanath, the 15th Tirthankara.
Key Highlights:
- Peaceful surroundings ideal for meditation.
- Unique Dravidian architectural style.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (100 km); taxis and private vehicles to the temple.
- Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction (90 km); state buses and autos available.
- By Road: Connected via NH 544 and state highways. Taxis and buses frequently ply from Kochi and Thrissur.
Tips: Respect the local customs and avoid noisy activities.
10. Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, Delhi
Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, the oldest Jain temple in Delhi, is one of India’s holiest temples. It was constructed in 1656 and is located in Chandni Chowk, the centre of Old Delhi. The temple is well-known for its story of the Mughal era and is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara Lord Parshvanath.
The Jain merchants were invited to Delhi by the Mughal Emperor, who also gave them land there. The families built the temple to praise their gods and brought their faith with them. Visitors are welcomed by a Manastambha column at the entrance gate. The serene atmosphere is open to people of all faiths.
Why Visit: The oldest Jain temple in Delhi, located opposite the Red Fort.
Key Highlights:
- Stunning red sandstone architecture.
- Houses a charitable bird hospital within the premises.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (20 km); metro and cabs are easily available.
- Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station (2 km); short rides via rickshaws or autos to the temple.
- By Road: Centrally located in Chandni Chowk; accessible via metro, buses, and taxis.
Tips: Visit during early hours for a peaceful experience.
11. Badami Cave Temples, Karnataka
Badami’s cave temples in the same town are great examples of traditional Indian rock-cut architecture dating back to the sixth century. Four cave temples that were constructed during the reign of Pulakesin I make up the complex, while most of the growth happened during the Chalukya era.
As the Chalukyas’ capital and the centrepiece of the temple’s design, Vataapi Badami, the Badami Temple, was originally known. In 2015, a few other caverns that contain 27 Hindu statues were found. The Badami Cave Temples are included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
Why Visit: Known for their ancient rock-cut caves, the fourth cave is dedicated to Jainism.
Key Highlights:
- Intricate carvings depicting Jain Tirthankaras.
- Beautiful views of the Agastya Lake.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Hubli Airport (105 km); taxis and buses connect to Badami.
- Nearest Railway Station: Badami Railway Station (5 km); autos and local buses are available.
- By Road: Connected via NH 50; regular buses and private cars from Hubli and Bagalkot.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the caves.
12. Bawangaja Jain Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Jainism’s founder Adinath chose this location as their place of penance. As a result, Bawagaja Temple is one of the most revered Jain temples in India and a significant site for pilgrimage. According to legend, the statue was cut out of a mountain and rises to a height of 4000 feet.
Lord Adinath promotes peace, expression, and art while in the meditational position. Kundalpur, in the state’s Damoh district, is well-known for having a statue of Adinath curled up in Padmasana. The valley has 63 temples. The area’s beautiful beauty is a gift for the eyes.
Why Visit: Famous for its 84-foot rock-cut statue of Lord Adinath, located on a hilltop.
Key Highlights:
- Scenic surroundings of the Satpura ranges.
- Peaceful atmosphere for meditation and spiritual connection.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
How to Reach:
- Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore (170 km); taxis and private cars to Barwani.
- Nearest Railway Station: Barwani Railway Station (45 km); local transport to Bawangaja.
- By Road: Well-connected via NH 47 from Indore and Khandwa; taxis and buses available.
Tips: Prepare for a moderate hike to reach the temple.
The Bottom Line
As one of the world’s oldest religions, Jainism has a long and varied history of sacred sites in India. These sites represent Jainism’s key values of nonviolence, compassion, detachment, and self-control. Anyone interested in Jainism or spirituality may find it rewarding and enlightening to visit these sites.
General Travel Tips for Reaching Jain Pilgrimage Sites:
- Local Transport: Many temples are in remote areas; book shared jeeps or cabs in advance.
- Weather Preparedness: Check local weather conditions before planning travel to high-altitude or rural sites.
- Connectivity: Carry offline maps and local contact numbers as connectivity may be limited in some areas.
- Advance Booking: Book taxis, trains, or flights well in advance, especially during festive seasons or pilgrimages.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is Jainism, and why are its pilgrimage sites important?
Jainism is an ancient Indian religion promoting non-violence and self-discipline. Its pilgrimage sites reflect its spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance.
2. Which are the most famous Jain pilgrimage sites in India?
Some key sites include Shatrunjaya Hill (Palitana), Dilwara Temples (Mount Abu), Shravanabelagola, Ranakpur Jain Temple, and Sammed Shikharji.
3. What is special about Shatrunjaya Hill (Palitana)?
It is a sacred site with over 850 intricately carved temples on a hilltop, symbolizing the path to liberation (moksha).
4. Why are the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu famous?
The Dilwara Temples are renowned for their stunning marble carvings, detailed architecture, and spiritual serenity.
5. What is the significance of Shravanabelagola?
Shravanabelagola is home to the 57-foot-high statue of Lord Bahubali (Gommateshwara), a major pilgrimage spot and a marvel of ancient art.
6. What makes the Ranakpur Jain Temple unique?
Located in Rajasthan, this temple is known for its 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars, no two of which are the same.
7. Why is Sammed Shikharji a key pilgrimage site?
Sammed Shikharji in Jharkhand is where 20 of Jainism’s 24 Tirthankaras attained salvation, making it highly revered.
8. What is special about the Khajuraho Jain Temples?
These temples feature exquisite carvings and represent Jain spirituality amidst the famous Khajuraho temple complex.
9. What can visitors experience at the Kulpakji Temple in Telangana?
Kulpakji Temple is one of the oldest Jain temples, known for its ancient idols of Jain Tirthankaras and a peaceful atmosphere.
10. What is the importance of Bawangaja Jain Temple in Madhya Pradesh?
This site features a massive 84-foot-tall statue of Lord Adinath carved into a mountain, showcasing Jain devotion and artistry.
11. Are there any Jain pilgrimage sites in Delhi?
Yes, the Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir near the Red Fort is a significant temple, known for its bird hospital and historic importance.
12. When is the best time to visit Jain pilgrimage sites in India?
The ideal time is between October and March, as the weather is pleasant for exploring these spiritual and historical destinations.
