10 Beautiful Jain Temples You Can Visit In India

Jainism had its beginnings in India over two millennia ago and thrived in the country. Even after many centuries, India continues to boast numerous exquisite Jain temples, showcasing architectural masterpieces, intricate carvings, sculptures, and meticulously designed layouts. These temples combine aesthetic beauty with a sense of transcendence.

Each of these sacred sites serves as a sanctuary of tranquility. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich narratives from mythology and Jain scriptures, embracing the teachings of this ancient religion. As you visit these hallowed Jain temples, you'll experience a profound spiritual serenity that envelops your senses.

# Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan

The Ranakpur Jain Temple holds a sacred place in the hearts of Jain pilgrims in India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli hills in the Pali district of Rajasthan, it's conveniently situated for those seeking a spiritual retreat, not far from both Jodhpur and Udaipur. Dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, this intricately designed temple is dedicated to the worship of Tirthankara Rishabhanatha.

Truly a mesmerizing spectacle, the Jain temple stands tall with three stories supported by an impressive array of 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars. Remarkably, each of these pillars boasts a unique design, making the temple a true marvel of artistic craftsmanship. Every nook and cranny of the temple is adorned with ornate carvings, featuring depictions of Lord Parshwanath with 1008 snake heads and numerous tails, mythological tales, celestial beings, and more. The distinct domes, shikhara, turrets, cupolas, and other exquisite architectural details add to the temple's splendor. The spiritual serenity experienced here is truly unparalleled, making Ranakpur a must-visit destination on the list of Jain temples in India.

# Dilwara Temple, Rajasthan

No list of India's most exquisite Jain temples would be comprehensive without acknowledging the magnificence of the Dilwara Temples. This sacred complex is situated a short distance from Mount Abu, the solitary hill station in Rajasthan, and is celebrated not only for its religious significance but also for its breathtaking and artistically rendered marble carvings.

Constructed by devout Jain followers in the 11th century, the five temples at Dilwara are devoted to Lord Adinath, Lord Rishabhdeo, Lord Neminath, Lord Mahavir Swami, and Lord Parshvanath, each representing an essential facet of Jain spirituality.

This sacred pilgrimage site mirrors the core values of Jainism, with its elegant yet splendid architecture, intricately carved designs, and marvelous details captivating the senses of all who visit. The marble temples are characterized by their opulent entranceways, featuring elaborate carvings on roofs, passages, columns, arches, and doorways.

For those seeking to reach Dilwara, the nearest airport is Udaipur, located 185 kilometers away, while the closest railway station is Abu Road, a mere 29 kilometers distant.

# Gomateshwara Temple, Karnataka

Located in the Hassan district of Karnataka, the Gomateshwara Temple is home to the world's most colossal monolithic statues. This sacred Jain temple houses the immense black stone statue of Bahubali, the first Tirthankara (a revered Jain deity), measuring an impressive 57 feet in height and 26 feet in width.

The Gomateshwara temple, a source of awe for all who visit, was conceived by Chamundaraya, a minister and leader of the Ganga dynasty, during the 10th century AD. Once every 12 years, pilgrims and tourists from around the globe flock to Shravanabelagola for the time-honored event called the Mahamastakabhisheka. In this grand ritual, the colossal statue is anointed with milk, saffron paste, sandalwood, turmeric, and vermilion. The forthcoming ceremony is scheduled for February 2018.

For travelers headed to Shravanabelagola, the nearest airport is located in Bangalore, 157 kilometers away, and the closest railway station can be found in Hassan.

# Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir

The Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir, the oldest Jain temple in Delhi, holds a revered place among India's holiest temples. Located in Chandni Chowk, the historic heart of Old Delhi, it was erected in the year 1656. At present, it serves as a home to a Birds Charity Hospital.

Dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Lord Parshvanath, the temple is known for its significant historical connection to the Mughal era. During that time, the Mughal Emperor invited Jain merchants to Delhi and generously provided them with land in the capital city. These families brought their faith with them and constructed this temple as a tribute to their deities. Pilgrims are welcomed by a manastambha column at the entrance gate. The temple follows a modest yet profoundly impressive architectural style, featuring gilded roofs, intricate carvings, and artwork in red sandstone. People of all faiths are invited to bask in its tranquil ambiance.

To reach this sacred site, the closest air terminal is the Delhi International Airport, and the nearest train connection is the Old Delhi Railway Station.

# Palitana Temples, Gujarat

The Palitana Temples in Gujarat represent the largest congregation of Jain temples in India and hold a place of great reverence for pilgrims. These temples, collectively known as the Palitana group, have been constructed over a span of 900 years, commencing from the 11th century. Situated on the Shatrunjaya hill, they number more than 3,000 in total, with 863 serving as sacred shrines for Jains.

Accessing the temples involves ascending a challenging 3,750 stone steps. The primary deity enshrined in these temples is the first Tirthankara, Rishabanath. The marble temples exhibit a distinctive architectural style, adorned in a manner that imparts the appearance of pure ivory. Despite being fashioned from marble, the temple deities are adorned with gold ornaments studded with precious gemstones. Palitana attracts pilgrims from all corners of the world who come to seek blessings. According to legend, the temples are considered the divine abode; hence, no one, not even the priests, is permitted to stay overnight.

For those planning to visit Palitana, the closest transportation options are Bhavnagar Airport and Bhavnagar railway station, both located 51 kilometers away.

# Sonagiri Temple, Madhya Pradesh

The quaint town of Sonagiri holds a special place of significance for Digambar Jains and boasts some of India's most renowned pilgrimage sites. Translating to 'Golden Peak' in the local vernacular, this temple is perched in Madhya Pradesh on the summit of the majestic Shatrunjaya hill. Amid approximately 900 temples in this vicinity, each one strives to outshine the others with its remarkable beauty and grandeur.

The radiant white Jain temples of Sonagiri glisten in the sunlight, and many visitors make the pilgrimage barefoot, ascending the 300 steps to the summit. At the pinnacle, one can marvel at the multitude of white temples and chhatris (umbrella-like structures). The intricate carvings, exquisite idols, images, bejeweled statues, and detailed sculptures contribute to the sense of awe and wonder.

To reach the Sonagiri temple, the nearest transportation options are the Gwalior Airport, situated 75 kilometers away, and the Sonagari Railway station, located 11 kilometers away.

# Kulpakji Temple, Telangana

Continuing our exploration of renowned Jain temples in India, we arrive at the Kulpakji Temple situated in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, also recognized as the Konalupaka Jain temple. This ancient shrine, dating back 2,000 years, holds significant importance for the Svetambara Jains as a key pilgrimage destination.

Adorned with a combination of red sandstone and white marble interiors, the temple showcases magnificent idols of Lord Neminatha, Lord Rishabhanatha, and Lord Mahavira. The idol of Lord Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, is also referred to as Manikya Deva. However, it's the idol of Lord Mahavira that truly captivates one's attention. What sets this temple apart is its unique jade sculpture, standing at an impressive height of 130 cm. Recently, the Kulpakji temple has undergone a revitalization process, thanks to the efforts of approximately 150 skilled artisans hired from Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Located at a distance of 100 km from Hyderabad city, the temple is easily accessible by both air and train, given the city's well-connected transportation options.

# Dharmanath Temple, Kerala

The Dharmanath Temple in Kerala is a renowned destination for Jain pilgrims, drawing devotees from around the globe. This centuries-old temple offers profound tranquility and serves as an ideal setting for meditation. The temple derives its name from the 15th Tirthankara, Dharmanath, and within its sanctum sanctorum, the idols of four Jain Lords are held in high reverence, earning the title of 'theerth.'

The temple's remarkable architecture, combined with its impeccable cleanliness within and around the complex, positions it as a place one cannot miss. Its architectural splendor is reminiscent of the Jain Dilwara Temple in Mount Abu. Additionally, the intricately carved pillars and walls silently narrate their own captivating story.

For those seeking to visit the Dharmanath Temple, the nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, situated at a distance of 42 km.

# Shikharji Temple, Jharkhand

Parasnath Hills, the tallest mountain in Jharkhand, is home to the revered Shikharji Temple, a highly regarded Jain pilgrimage site and one of the most prominent Jain temples in India. Shikharji Temple is dedicated to the worship of twenty out of the twenty-four Tiranthakaras who attained liberation from the cycle of rebirth, achieving Moksha. Although the temple's history dates back to the 18th century, it continues to be a place of deep devotion, drawing Jain followers who embark on a 54 km parikrama (religious pilgrimage) either on a palanquin or on foot.

The temple's historical significance and architectural grandeur are truly remarkable and well worth experiencing. Visitors can also encounter Sanskrit inscriptions dating back to the 17th century and an ancient idol housed in the sanctum sanctorum. Additionally, a mural showcasing all the temples on Parasnath Hill captures attention.

For travelers planning to visit the Shikharji Temple, the nearest airport is Ranchi Airport, located 103 km away. Alternatively, those arriving by train will find the Parasnath Railway Station in close proximity, just 23 km from Madhuban.

# Hanumantal Jain Temple, Jabalpur

Constructed in the 17th century CE, the Hanumantal Jain Temple serves as the starting point for the annual Jain procession on the birthday of Lord Mahavira. This temple, renowned as one of the most prominent Jain Temples in India, is a repository of tales and spirituality. Beyond its religious significance, the temple bears a resemblance to a fortress, boasting twenty-two shrines. For aficionados of ancient art, the temple offers a captivating display of images spanning various historical periods. The sole idol in this sacred place is that of the Jain Goddess Padmavati.

With its 22 shrines, the temple holds the distinction of being the largest independent Jain Temple in India. Furthermore, the presence of images from the Kalachuri era to contemporary times is bound to leave visitors in awe. Pilgrims who visit this hallowed site often revere the black-stone statue of Lord Aadinath as a Swayambhu Idol. In addition to the spiritual ambiance, a picturesque pond enhances the overall beauty of the temple.