Jain Temples
Spiritual Sanctuary and Ancient Legacy:: The Jain Temples of Pavagadh, often collectively referred to as the Bavanderi (or Bhavanaderi) and Navalakha groups, hold deep spiritual significance for the ?vet?mbara and Digambara Jain communities. These temples are crucial evidence of Pavagadh's long hist ory as a major Jain pilgrimage center, with heritage tracing back as far as the 3rd century BC. The temples are primarily concentrated in three groups on the hill, with the Bavanderi group being the most prominent and accessible, located near the Naqqarkhana (Drum-house) gate on the ascent to the summit. The name Navalakha is traditionally associated with structures built with the colossal sum of nine lakh (900,000) of a currency unit, suggesting immense patronage and wealth dedicated to their construction. The existing structures are generally dated to the 14th-15th centuries CE, built under the patronage of wealthy Jain merchants and rulers, specifically during the later Chauhan Rajput period. They are dedicated to various Tirthankaras, including Suparshvanatha and Chandraprabhu. The history of these temples is closely intertwined with the Achalgacch sect of Jainism, which was established here in the 12th century AD. Despite subsequent destruction and conversion of structures during the Sultanate period, the remnants stand as powerful symbols of Jain devotion and architectural artistry. The serene atmosphere provides a stark spiritual contrast to the surrounding military ruins of the fort. These temples represent a surviving link to the multi-religious character of pre-Sultanate Pavagadh.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1. 5 HoursPlace Type:
Religious Landmark:: Ancient Jain Pilgrimage CEntry Fees:
No Direct Fee to the Temple Structure:: As actively worshipped religious sites, there is generally no entry fee to the temple complex itself.
ASI/Park Entry Fee may apply:: However, since they are located within the controlled area of the Ch...No Direct Fee to the Temple Structure:: As actively worshipped religious sites, there is generally no entry fee to the temple complex itself.
ASI/Park Entry Fee may apply:: However, since they are located within the controlled area of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park and past the lower fortifications, the standard ASI entrance fee (charged for entry into the fort area) may be required. The cost is nominal for Indian citizens (often less than INR 40 per person) and higher for international visitors. This fee is often a one-time charge for the lower/middle fort area.Timing:
Regular Timings: Approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The temples are generally open throughout the day to accommodate pilgrims ascending the hill.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning, between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, for the most peaceful and spiritu...Regular Timings: Approximately 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The temples are generally open throughout the day to accommodate pilgrims ascending the hill.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning, between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, for the most peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, often coinciding with morning rituals.
Peak Pilgrim Time: Weekends, festival days, and the holy Kartik Purnima and Navratri periods.Special Events:
Mahavir Jayanti Celebrations:: As a major Jain site, Mahavir Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir) is a highly significant event, typically occurring in March or April. Special ceremonies, prayers, and processions are held with great fervor, attracting large numbe...Mahavir Jayanti Celebrations:: As a major Jain site, Mahavir Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir) is a highly significant event, typically occurring in March or April. Special ceremonies, prayers, and processions are held with great fervor, attracting large numbers of devotees to the temples.
Annual Tirth Yatra:: The temples host specific annual pilgrimages (yatra) organized by the Achalgacch and other Jain Gacchas. These events are characterized by unique rituals, singing of hymns (bhajans), and mass gatherings, offering a vibrant display of Jain culture and devotion.Best Photo Spots:
The Mandapa Pillars:: Close-up shots of the exquisitely carved pillars in the surviving mandapas, capturing the highly detailed decorative friezes and human figures.
The Temple Cluster View:: A slightly elevated vantage point that captures t...The Mandapa Pillars:: Close-up shots of the exquisitely carved pillars in the surviving mandapas, capturing the highly detailed decorative friezes and human figures.
The Temple Cluster View:: A slightly elevated vantage point that captures the grouping of the several temples (Bavanderi group) with the backdrop of the forested hill slope, showcasing the blend of man-made and natural beauty.
Stone Jali Work:: Focused photographs of the delicate stone lattice work (if any survives), which is characteristic of the Gujarat architectural style, allowing the play of light and shadow to create a dramatic effect.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Pilgrimage and Meditation::
Ritual and Worship: Participate in the morning or evening aarti or puja if one of the smaller, active shrines is open.
Peaceful Reflection: Find a quiet spot in the mandapa ruins for meditation and silent reflection, appreciating the deep spiritual history of the location.
Architectural Photography: Focus on the intricate carvings of the pillars, ceilings, and toranas (gateways), using the natural light to highlight the depth of the stonework.
Tirthankara Study: Take time to identify the different Tirthankara idols and learn about their specific iconography.
Heritage Walk: Combine the visit with a walk to the nearby Lakulisa Temple and the Saat Kaman, as all these sites...
Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Evidence of Jainism's Power:: The Jain Temples are famous for representing the historical and religious importance of Pavagadh as a major Rs.vetRs.mbara Jain tirth (pilgrimage site) for over two millennia, considered by some to be equal in rank to Palitana. Their fam...Historical Evidence of Jainism's Power:: The Jain Temples are famous for representing the historical and religious importance of Pavagadh as a major Rs.vetRs.mbara Jain tirth (pilgrimage site) for over two millennia, considered by some to be equal in rank to Palitana. Their fame stems from the sheer number and the architectural quality of the temples built on the difficult hill terrain. They showcase the deep patronage extended by Jain merchant guilds, who financed these monumental works. The complex's significance as a surviving center of the Achalgacch Gaccha, established here, is a key point of their fame, attracting pilgrims worldwide. The intricate sculptures, particularly on the remaining pillars and doorframes, are celebrated examples of Gujarat's regional temple art, a blend of resilience and beauty against the backdrop of a military fort. -
Architecture:
Distinct Jain Temple Architecture:: The architecture is predominantly Western Indian Solanki-era style, adapted by the later Chauhan period builders, using white, finely dressed marble and local sandstone. The temples are characterized by Shikhara (spires, often pyramidal o...Distinct Jain Temple Architecture:: The architecture is predominantly Western Indian Solanki-era style, adapted by the later Chauhan period builders, using white, finely dressed marble and local sandstone. The temples are characterized by Shikhara (spires, often pyramidal or curvilinear), intricately carved mandapas (halls), and garbhagrihas (sanctums). The exterior walls feature highly detailed carvings of Yakshas, Yakshinis, and various Jain deities, often in seated or standing postures.
Dimension and Ornamentation:: The Bavanderi group consists of a cluster of temples, varying in size, typically modest compared to the great mosques nearby. The larger temples may have a base measuring around 50 feet by 30 feet. Key features include elaborate ceiling domes (vitana), supported by highly ornamented pillars. The carvings often depict floral, geometric, and human figures, and the use of jalis (perforated stone screens) is common. The Navalakha temple structure, in particular, is noted for its grand scale even in its ruined state. The temples showcase the zenith of Jain stone craftsmanship. -
How To Reach:
By Ropeway to Machi and Walk:: The most common way to reach the temples is to drive or take local transport to the Machi plateau (the mid-level of the hill) and then take the ropeway (cable car) to the intermediate level. From the ropeway station, the temples are a short, m... -
Near Tourist Places:
Lakulisa Temple (Mauliya Plateau) (0. 5 km):
Saat Kaman (Seven Arches) (0. 7 km):
Navlakha Kothar (0. 8 km):
Khuniya Mahadev Waterfall (3 km - descent):
Kalika Mata Temple (1. 5 km - uphill):
Pavagadh Fort Ruins (surrounding the area):
Manchi Haveli (Ropeway Base) (1 km - descent):
Jami Masjid (Champaner) (7 km):
Helical Stepwell (Champaner) (8 km):
Virasat Van (5 km - towards base):
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety:
Ropeway Awareness:: If using the ropeway, check the operational timings and be prepared for potential queues during peak season.
Packing:
Light Offerings:: Wh...
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