Most Famous Jain Pilgrimage Sites to Visit in India

Are you looking for the most famous Jain pilgrimage sites in India? Here is a simple guide that will help you understand these special places. These Jain temples and tirthas are known for their beautiful buildings, peaceful feelings, and long history. Visitors from different countries come to see and feel the sacred beauty of these holy Jain sites in India. Now, let us take you through some of the top Jain pilgrimage sites in India.

Why Visit Jain Pilgrimage Sites in India?

India has some of the oldest and most beautiful Jain temples in the world. Some are built on hills, others inside caves or in quiet villages. Visiting these places is not only for praying it is also about learning, feeling calm, and seeing amazing art and architecture. These places show how the Jain religion teaches peace, truth, and simple living.

 

1. Shatrunjaya Hill (Palitana), Gujarat

• Highlights:

  This place has over 800 white marble temples! They are all built on a big hill called Shatrunjaya near a city named Bhavnagar.

• Key Deity:

  Lord Adinath (Rishabhanatha), who is the first Tirthankara in Jainism.

• Why Visit:

  It is the most important Jain pilgrimage. When you reach the top, you’ll see breathtaking views and feel the holiness all around you.

• Special Tip:

  There are around 3,800 steps to climb! Begin your climb early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more comfortable journey.

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2. Girnar Hill Temples, Gujarat

• Highlights:

  This is another sacred mountain with Jain temples that are more than 2,000 years old.

• Key Shrine:

  Temple of Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara.

• Why Visit:

  You’ll climb about 10,000 steps, and on the way, see beautiful old carvings and amazing mountain views.

• Travel Tip:

  Stay in a city called Junagadh. Start the climb before the sun rises.

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3. Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan

• Highlights:

  This marble temple was built in the 15th century and is very famous.

• Key Deity:

  Lord Adinath.

• Why Visit:

  It has 1,444 marble pillars—and each one has a different carving!

• Travel Tip:

  You can also visit Kumbhalgarh Fort nearby for more fun and learning.

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4. Shravanabelagola, Karnataka

• Highlights:

  Here, you will see a 57-foot tall statue of Lord Bahubali made from one big stone.

• Key Deity:

  Lord Bahubali (also called Gommateshwara).

• Why Visit:

  Every 12 years, a big event called Mahamastakabhisheka happens here. It’s a special festival!

• Travel Tip:

  You need to climb about 600 steps to reach the statue. You’ll get a great view from the top.

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5. Sammed Shikharji, Jharkhand

• Highlights:

  This is the highest Jain pilgrimage site. It is located on a hill called Parasnath Hill, which is about 1,350 meters high.

• Why Visit:

  It is believed that 20 out of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras achieved Nirvana (freedom from the cycle of birth and death) here.

• Special Experience:

  Trekking this hill is not just exercise—it is a spiritual journey.

• Travel Tip:

  Go between October and March when the weather is cooler.

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6. Dilwara Temples, Mount Abu, Rajasthan

• Highlights:

  These temples are world-famous for their marble carvings. Every corner is a work of art.

• Key Shrines:

  Dedicated to Adinath, Neminath, Parshwanath, and other Jain Tirthankaras.

• Why Visit:

  These temples are a masterpiece of Indian temple architecture.

• Travel Tip:

  You can’t take photos inside. So, just enjoy the beauty with your eyes.

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7. Pawapuri, Bihar

• Highlights:

  This is where Lord Mahavira, the last Jain Tirthankara, attained Nirvana.

• Key Shrine:

  The Jal Mandir, a beautiful temple in the middle of a pond filled with lotus flowers.

• Why Visit:

  It is a very holy place for Jains all over the world.

• Travel Tip:

  Visit Nalanda ruins nearby to see more of India’s ancient history.

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8. Shankheshwar, Gujarat

• Highlights:

  This is an important site for the Shwetambar Jain sect.

• Key Deity:

  Lord Parshwanath.

• Why Visit:

  The temple is big and lively, especially during festivals.

• Travel Tip:

  You can also visit Patan nearby to see Rani ki Vav, a famous stepwell.

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9. Kulpakji Temple (Kolanupaka), Telangana

• Highlights:

  This temple is over 2,000 years old and has a 1.5-metre idol of Lord Mahavira made of jade.

• Why Visit:

  It is an important Jain pilgrimage in South India.

• Travel Tip:

  It’s an easy trip from Hyderabad, so it’s great for a one-day visit.

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10. Sonagiri, Madhya Pradesh

• Highlights:

  This place has more than 100 white Jain temples on hills.

• Key Shrine:

  Dedicated to Chandraprabhu, the 8th Tirthankara.

• Why Visit:

  It’s very quiet and peaceful, perfect for thinking and praying.

• Travel Tip:

  Visit between October and March so it’s not too hot.

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Best Time to Visit Jain Temples in India

• October to March: These months are cooler and good for climbing hills and exploring temples.
• Many important Jain festivals also happen during this time.

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Travel Tips for Jain Pilgrimage in India

• Wear modest clothes and do not carry leather items.
• Always take off your shoes before going into any temple.
• Some temples do not allow photos. Follow the rules to show respect.
• If you are going to a hill temple, carry water and go early in the day.

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Plan Your Jain Pilgrimage Tour in India

Are you ready to explore these amazing Jain pilgrimage sites in India? Whether you’re going to pray, learn history, or just enjoy the peaceful vibes, these temples will give you memories for a lifetime.

We can help you plan your trip with special packages, expert guides, and everything you need to have a smooth and spiritual journey.

Jay Ambe Tour and Travels offers comfortable Innova cars and mini buses for Jain pilgrimage tours. Travel safely and with ease as you visit these sacred places.

Contact us today to begin your unforgettable pilgrimage!