In the process of visiting North India, I came to understand that each of these regions has its story and Jain temples offer some of the most-calm. They are not just prayer rooms or place of ritual but a representative of harmony, art and centuries of worship all skillfully hewn out of stone.
And what is more; wherever we turn, with the magnificent marble temples of Rajasthan, to the undying devotion of the sacred places of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, we are filled with serenity and divine beauty. Here, I have discussed about my visit with Tempo Traveller Service in Jaipur for five Jain tourism sites that I must visit in North India. These places are sure to give you the inspiration you need regardless of whether you are on a spiritual pilgrimage or just enjoy touring architectural marvels.
Jain Temple of Ranakpur, Rajasthan:
Overview and Importance
The Ranakpur Jain Temple is the final product of Jain architecture. This masterpiece, dedicated to Lord Adinath, is 15 th century marble and it attracts visitors with 1,444 carved pillars that are unique. Tranquil halls, the sun rays and the carved details make Ranakpur a poem in stone.
Key Travel Information
- Place: Ranakpur, Pali District, Rajasthan.
- Nearest City: Udaipur
- Style of architecture: Chaumukha (Four-faced) Temple.
- Peak Season: October to March.
- Delhi distance: The distance by road is about 605 to 660 km, which needs a travelling time of 10 to 14 hours.
Mount Abu- Dilwara Jain Temple:
A Marble Masterpiece
The Jain Temple of Dilwara in Mount Abu is an exception of perfection. Constructed in the 11 th -13 th centuries, they are so finely carved that there is no way that the job was done manually centuries ago. The most noteworthy features are Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi, the walls of which seem to be made of lace cut out of marble and the details are really remarkable. When you are standing here you will find yourself talking wow without even intending to do so.
Key Travel Information
- Place: Mount Abu, Sirohi, district, Rajasthan.
- Time Period: 11 th -13 th centuries.
- Visiting Hours:
- Worshippers: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Tourists: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Peak Season: October-February.
- Delhi Distance: the road distance is between about 730 and 760 km - 1113 hrs drive.
- Pro tip: Go around noon when there will be no rush of people in the morning like the devotees.
Delhi, Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir:
Oldest Jain Temple in Delhi:
We proceed on to Dil Walo Ki Delhi, the opposite of the Red Fort, in which is the oldest Jain temple in the city, Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir. Constructed in 1656, it is made of glowing red stone and is devoted to Lord Mahavira which still receives worshippers and visitors all over the world. I like the Jain Bird Hospital most of all. Jains show compassion in action, and wounded birds are taken care of and treated here. The silence within is almost surreal, particularly in the light of the Chandni Chowk, which is very noisy.
Key Travel Information
- Location: Chandni Chowk, opposite Red fort, Delhi.
- Closest Metro Station: Lal Qila Metro Station.
- Established: 17th Century
- Peak Season: All year round.
- Hack Intention To visit in the morning before the markets have opened to get a more serene experience.
Hastinapur: Digamber Jain Bada Mandir:
Jainism in UP Spiritual Capital of Jainism
Should you want another experience, then maybe Hastinapur, Uttar Pradesh. One of the most sacred places is called the Digamber Jain Bada Mandir and is referred to as the spiritual capital of Jainism. It is thought that the region was the birthplace of three Tirthankaras namely Shantinath, Kunthunath and Arahnatth. The temple complex is also equipped with meditation halls, tall Manastambh (pillar of pride) which portrays peace and humility and Jain Museum where one can get to know about ancient Jain history and artefacts- utterly captivating.
Key Travel Information
- Location: Hastinapur, Meerut District, Uttar Pradesh.
- Primary Deities: Lord Shantinath, Lord Kunthunath and Lord Arahnath.
- Special Feature: Jain Museum in the complex is ancient.
- Peak Season: October to March.
- Closeness to Delhi: The closest distance will be via road at about 105 to 140 km and it will take about 3 to 4 hours to reach.
Tijara Ji Jain Temple, Alwar Nearby:
The Miracle of Parshvanatha
Finally, the favourite one of mine is Tijara Ji Jain Temple. It is a short distance away, only few kilometres, off Alwar and is a well-known Atishay Kshetra, place of miracles. The temple is named after Lord Chandraprabhu, the 8th Tirthankara, and was popularised when in 1956 a miraculous idol was found in the temple. Tijara, has an environment of hills and skies that run on forever and ever, making it the best place to get in solitude. In this case you have a sense of deep repose that is spiritual and picturesque- ideal to the person who wants to take a break out of the mounting upheavals of the modern world.
Key Travel Information
- Place of Worship: Tijara, Alwar, Rajasthan.
- Principal Deity: Lord Chandraprabhu (8 th Tirthankara).
- The closest railway station is Alwar Junction (55 km).
- Delhi Distance: The distance between it and Delhi is about 100-110 km by road and it takes 2.5-3.5 hours to reach.
- Peak Season: October-February.
If you're preparing to plan this spiritual circuit with your family or a group, my advice is simple: book the Best Luxury Tempo Traveller in Jaipur. It is the easiest means of smoothing out the trip. You can all comfortably sit in one car, you will be having a beautiful ride, and there will be no hassles of having to go to one temple to another. Having a skilled driver and having ample space, your entire spiritual journey will feel as peaceful as you stand before those beautiful temples do on the road. You are bound to have a good time!
Conclusion
In conclusion, therefore, it is a surreal experience visiting the Jain Sacred sites in North India. It is full of calmness, faithfulness and eternal tales. Each temple is special in its own way and spiritual maturity with which you are going to be relaxed and inspired at the same time.