Rightly called the Heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is a land of various cultural and spiritual treasures. In fact, some of the greatest holy Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh testify to the state’s great attachment to Jainism. With their intricate architecture, serene surroundings, and great spiritual significance, these temples attract devotees and tourists alike. Whether a staunch follower or just an enthusiast of history and architecture, these famous Jain temples offer an apt retreat and a chance to discover Jainism’s rich heritage.
Top 10 Jain Temples In Madhya Pradesh
Prepare for an unforgettable Indian adventure as you explore these stunning temples. Here are the popular Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh:
1. Bawangaja Jain Temple, Barwani
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The Bawangaja Jain Temple is among the most important Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh and one of the major pilgrimages in India. The statue is a monolithic figure carved out of a single rock. It represents the biggest monolithic Jain statue in the world and an awe-inspiring example of ancient Indian craftsmanship. The temple stands on a hill, presenting stunning ranges of the surrounding landscape. Besides devotees, Bawangaja attracts tourists because of its incredible architecture and nature’s bounty.
Location: Bawangaja, Barwani district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Sonagiri Jain Temples, Datia
Photo: Pratyk321 / Wikimedia Commons
The Sonagiri Jain Temples are among the popular Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh and are considered one of the major pilgrimage destinations of the Digambara sect of Jainism. Over 100 temples that comprise the temple complex are situated on a hill in Datia district; each shrine displays unique architectural beauty. The main temple is deified with Lord Chandraprabha, the 8th Tirthankara. Many pilgrims come here for meditation and take deliverance from worldly attachment, as it is said that many saints attained Soloka at this place.
Location: Sonagiri, Datia district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Gopachal Parvat Jain Temples, Gwalior
Photo: R Barraez D´Lucca / Wikimedia Commons
Gopachal Parvat is located in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and houses a series of magnificent rock-cut famous Jain temples. Indeed, these date back to the 7th and 15th centuries and are renowned for their enormous statues of Jain Tirthankaras carved from the natural stone face. The most striking figure is the 47-foot statue of Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara. Gopachal Parvat thus signifies a spot that is quiet and spiritually energised, attracting pilgrims and tourists. The carvings of these ancient temples are exquisite, having minute details that must intrigue any historian, architect, or spiritual person.
Location: Gopachal Parvat, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Shri 1008 Chintamani Parshvanath Digamber Jain Atishay Kshetra
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Shri 1008 Chintamani Parshvanath Digamber Jain Atishay Kshetra is situated in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most famous pilgrimages among Jains. This temple, named after the 23rd Tirthankara Lord Parshvanath, comes under the category of an Atishay Kshetra, or “a place of miracles.” The serene and tranquil environment of the temple, coupled with its beautifully architected structure, makes it a significant spot for worship and a place to seek calm. The devotees believe visiting this temple brings peace, prosperity, and respite from worldly troubles.
Location: Kaithuli, Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Shri Digamber Jain Atishay Kshetra, Ajaygarh
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Ajaygarh, in the Panna district, has Shri Digamber Jain Atishay Kshetra. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath and is famous for its “Atishay” — miraculous powers that draw Jain pilgrims from all parts of the country. Visitors flock to the temple for its intricate carvings and architectural splendour. Ajaygarh’s surroundings are also rich in history, further featuring ruins of ancient forts and very beautiful natural landscapes. Many miracles are reported to have taken place over the centuries, thus adding to its appeal as a spiritual centre. Devotees visit the temple so as to seek blessings, meditate, and ruminate upon the vision of Jainism.
Location: Ajaygarh, Panna district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
6. Shri Mahavirji Jain Temple, Morena
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Among the major Jain pilgrimages in Madhya Pradesh, the Shri Mahavirji Jain Temple in Morena is a famous Jain temple in Madhya Pradesh of Lord Mahavir, who was the 24th Tirthanakar of Jainism. The temple’s exquisite carvings, calm atmosphere, and spiritual merits attract tourists all year round. This temple complex features many small temples with unique architecture. It’s a popular spot during Mahavir Jayanti, known for its spiritual significance and stunning design. A must-visit for anyone interested in Jainism and temple architecture.
Location: Morena district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Jain Temple Of Tikamgarh
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Tikamgarh is home to several ancient important Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh, each with its own architectural and spiritual significance. The most notable temples are dedicated to Lord Adinath and Lord Parshvanatha, and they are known for their beautiful sculptures and carvings. These temples are set in a peaceful environment, surrounded by lush greenery, making them a perfect destination for meditation and spiritual reflection. The intricate craftsmanship of the temples reflects the rich heritage of Jainism in Madhya Pradesh, attracting both pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts.
Location: Tikamgarh district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Chanderi Jain Temples
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Chanderi, a historic town, is renowned for its stunning and famous Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh. The most famous among these is the Khandagiri Jain Temple, dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha. The temple is an architectural marvel, with intricately carved pillars and beautiful sculptures depicting scenes from Jain mythology. The temple is located atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Chanderi’s Jain temples are not only a spiritual haven but also a testament to the region’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Location: Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. Jain Temple, Khajuraho
Photo: Antoine Taveneaux / Wikimedia Commons
Khajuraho, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage temples, also houses a set of popular Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh. The Parsvanath Temple is the largest among these and is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha. The temple’s intricate carvings and sculptures reflect the artistic brilliance of the Chandela dynasty. The Jain temples of Khajuraho are unique for their detailed depictions of various aspects of life, both spiritual and worldly. Visiting these temples offers a chance to explore the intersection of Jainism and art in ancient India.
Location: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
10. Papora Jain Temple, Sagar
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Papora, near Sagar, is home to the famous holy Jain temple in Madhya Pradesh dedicated to Lord Adinath. The temple is known for its spiritual atmosphere and beautiful architecture. The peaceful surroundings and intricate designs of the temple make it a perfect place for meditation and reflection. Papora is also significant for its history with Jain saints who attained spiritual enlightenment here. The annual Papora Mahotsav attracts thousands of devotees, making it a key event in the Jain religious calendar.
Location: Papora, Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
The holy Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh offer a unique mix of spiritualism, architectural brilliance, and serene surroundings. Each of these temples holds a significant place in the history of Jainism and serves as a testament to the state’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. So, Book your trip with TripXL today and experience a hassle-free, memorable journey filled with spiritual enrichment and cultural discovery.
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons