India is home to many religions, each with marvelous religious structures. One of them is Jainism, and the country boasts some of the most beautiful and majestic Jain temples. Jain Temples are known for their peaceful ambiance, profound spiritual significance, and stunning architecture. Whether you are a Jain or someone interested in exploring India’s cultural heritage, these Jain temples in India are a must-visit!
Jain Temples In India You Must Visit
Girnar, Rajasthan
Girnar is the name of a mountain in Gujarat, and the Jain temples located atop the hill constitute one of the holiest pilgrimage complexes for the Jain community. It is believed to be the place where Lord Neminath (22nd Tirthankara) attained moksha. The Neminath temple, among the temples here, is the oldest, dating back to the 12th century, and is renowned for its grand sculptures and intricate marble carvings. There are thousands of steps to be climbed to reach this cluster of temples here (they also have ropeway services now).
Where: Girnar Hill, Junagadh district, Gujarat
When: Open all day. (Ropeway: 7 am to 5 pm)
Sri Digamber Jain Lal Mandir, Delhi
This Jain temple in Delhi is located near the bustling area of Chandni Chowk, near the Red Fort, and is the oldest Jain temple in Delhi. The temple is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Lord Parshvanath, and is known for its striking red sandstone structure and beautiful architectural details. The temple is a symbol of religious tolerance, as it has an association with the Mughal Era, as the ruling emperors allowed Jain merchants to build their temple here.
Where: Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni Chowk, Near Red Fort, Delhi
When: 6 am to 9 pm
Gomateshwara Temple, Karnataka
The Gomateshwara temple at Shravanabelagola in Karnataka rises 57 feet tall and was built a thousand years ago. It is known across the globe for its colossal monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, also known as Gomateshwara. The temple hosts the Mahamastakabhisheka festival every twelve years, where devotees bathe the statue in sacred offerings. This festival draws global attention to the temple surrounded by Vindhyagiri Hills because of its artistic and spiritual magnificence.
Where: Shravanabelagola, Hassan district, Karnataka
When: 6:30 am to 11:30 am and 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Parshvanath Temple, Madhya Pradesh
The Parshvanath Temple is located within the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho group of temples. It was constructed by a Jain family under royal patronage in the 10th century and is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankar. The temple exemplifies the pinnacle of medieval Jain craftsmanship, featuring intricately detailed sculptures, ornate ceilings, and figures of flying vidhyadharas adorning its interiors.
Where: RWVP+XJ2, Eastern Group of Temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
When: 6 am to 6:30 pm
Dilawara Temples, Rajasthan
The Dilawara temples located near Mount Abu in Rajasthan are famous for their marble architecture and were constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries. There are a total of five temples, and their interiors are intricately adorned with motifs that depict Jain cosmology, deities, and legends. They are renowned across India for their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to sacred aesthetics.
Where: Delwada, Delwara, Mount Abu, Rajasthan
When: 11 am to 5 pm
Palitana Temples, Gujarat
The Palitana temples, set atop the Shatrunjaya Hill, comprise the largest cluster of Jain temples in the world. It has over 3000 intricately carved marble shrines and has been built gradually from the 11th century onward. This sacred complex is said to be the holiest pilgrimage for Jains, where pilgrims climb over thousands of steps to participate in rituals and seek the blessings of their Tirthankaras.
Where: GR47+4QC, Paras Colony, Palitana, Gujarat
When: 5 am to 5:30 pm
Sonagiri Temples, Madhya Pradesh
The Sonagiri hill temples are an important Digambar Jain pilgrimage site among the beautiful hills near Datia. This complex has over eighty white-washed temples and is known for its spiritual purity and peaceful ambiance. It is believed that Jain devotees and monks have come here to attain moksha by pursuing ascetic practices, as these white temples signify spiritual focus and detachment.
Where: SONAGIR, Bhadona, Sewni, Madhya Pradesh
When: 5 am to 12:30 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm
Savera Kambada Basadi, Karnataka
The Savera Kambada Basadi (Thousand Pillar temple) is one of the most known Jain temples in South India. This temple was built in the 15th century and is known for its thousand pillars, each bearing unique designs and carvings which are inspired by Jain culture and mythology. It reflects the blend of Dravidian influence with Jain spiritual symbols and the South Indian adaptation of Jain culture.
Where: 3XFX+J2R, Mudbidri, Karnataka
When: 7:30 am to 6 pm
Ranakpura Jain Temple, Rajasthan
The Ranakpura Jain Temple is beautifully nestled in the Aravalli hills and is known for its architectural splendor and religious importance. This temple is dedicated to Adinath, 1st Tirthankara, and highlights the Chaturmukha design, which has four entrances. The temple boasts over 1400 carved marble pillars, which exemplify the ancient Rajasthani craftsmanship.
Where: Ranakpur Rd, Desuri, Sadri, Ranakpur, Rajasthan
When: 6 am to 8:30 pm
Shikharji Temple, Jharkhand
Shikharji temple is perched atop Parasnath hill and is the most sacred pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed that out of twenty-four Tirthankaras, about twenty of them have attained liberation. It is celebrated for its beautiful natural surroundings, spiritual vibrations, and religious fulfilment. The pilgrims undertake a challenging and long journey to participate in the rituals commemorating the cycle of moksha and birth.
Where: X46P+CQW, Madhuban, Post- Shikhir ji, Distt-Giridih, Jharkhand
When: 24 hours open
Summing Up
These Jain temples in India are sure to inspire, enlighten, and make you more eager to explore the temples in India.
