Kundalpur Digambar Jain Temple
The Kundalpur Digambar Jain Temple is another significant pilgrimage center, standing very close to the Shwetambar temple. It is considered by the Digambar sect to be the exact location of the palace (Nandyavart Mahal) where Lord Mahavira was born to King Siddartha and Queen Trishala about 2600 year s ago. The current complex is modern and expansive, featuring a central temple with a majestic idol of Bhagwan Mahavira in the Padmasana (lotus) posture. The site is a complex of several temples, including shrines dedicated to other Tirthankaras, a magnificent Kirti Stambh (Pillar of Glory) with Mahavira's idols, and a museum and art gallery dedicated to his life. Furthermore, it marks the birthplace of three of his eleven chief disciples (Ganadhara). The complex emphasizes the historical narrative through its structures, including depictions of the sixteen auspicious dreams seen by his mother, Queen Trishala. The large campus, peaceful ambiance, and well-equipped pilgrim facilities (including a Dharamshala and Bhojanalaya) make it a vital stop on the Jain circuit in Bihar, offering a rich cultural and spiritual experience.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Hour to 2 Hours:Place Type:
Jain Pilgrimage Site, Religious Complex:Entry Fees:
Indian Nationals: Entry is Free. The complex operates on the donation (Dan) system from the devout community to maintain the large scale of the facilities. :
Foreign Nationals: Entry is Free. All visitors are welcomed, but they must observe...Indian Nationals: Entry is Free. The complex operates on the donation (Dan) system from the devout community to maintain the large scale of the facilities. :
Foreign Nationals: Entry is Free. All visitors are welcomed, but they must observe strict codes of conduct, especially modest dressing and maintaining reverence. :
Special Pooja Fees: Organizing specific religious rituals (Abhishek, special Aarti) may require a prior arrangement and a donation or fee paid to the temple trust. :
Cost of Facilities: The on-site Dharamshala (lodging) and Bhojanalaya (dining hall) charge a very nominal fee for devotees to cover operating costs, which is not a mandatory entry fee. :Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from about 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with variations for special festivals. The main inner sanctum might have specific hours for Puja (worship). :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) is the most spiritu...Regular Timings: Open daily from about 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with variations for special festivals. The main inner sanctum might have specific hours for Puja (worship). :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) is the most spiritual and least crowded time for uninterrupted devotion and photography. The late afternoon light is also pleasant for exploring the grounds. :
Dining Timings: The Bhojanalaya strictly adheres to Jain principles and has fixed timings for all meals, which must be planned in advance by pilgrims (e. g. , lunch often closes by 2:00 PM). :Special Events:
Mahavir Jayanti (Birth Anniversary) The most grand celebration, typically in March or April, features massive processions (Rath Yatra), special prayer ceremonies, and cultural events, drawing the largest crowd of the year. :
Dashlakshan Parva: A ten-day festival of s...Mahavir Jayanti (Birth Anniversary) The most grand celebration, typically in March or April, features massive processions (Rath Yatra), special prayer ceremonies, and cultural events, drawing the largest crowd of the year. :
Dashlakshan Parva: A ten-day festival of self-purification and meditation (usually in August or September), observed by the Digambar sect, with special sermons and rituals at the temple complex. :
Nirvan Kalyanak of Mahavira: Special prayers are held on the day of Deepawali to commemorate Lord Mahavira's liberation, creating a unique spiritual ambiance distinct from the general Hindu festivities. :Best Photo Spots:
Kirti Stambh Panorama: A wide shot capturing the entire majestic Kirti Stambh with the main temple in the background, ideally with the morning sun illuminating the white marble. :
The Padmasana Idol: A respectful photo of the large, unadorned...Kirti Stambh Panorama: A wide shot capturing the entire majestic Kirti Stambh with the main temple in the background, ideally with the morning sun illuminating the white marble. :
The Padmasana Idol: A respectful photo of the large, unadorned central idol of Lord Mahavira (if permitted), focusing on the profound expression and the intricate ceiling work above it. :
Nandyavart Mahal Depiction: Capturing the artistic rendering of the birthplace palace and the display of the 16 Dreams of Queen Trishala for their rich cultural and mythological detail. :
The Sacred Ponds: Photos of the Pushkarnis with the temple reflection or the calm waters, offering a serene and beautiful nature shot within the complex. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Circumambulate the Kirti Stambh: Walk around the impressive Kirti Stambh, studying the eight idols of Lord Mahavira mounted on it. :
Worship the Main Idol: Perform silent devotion or Darshan of the large central idol of Bhagwan Mahavira in the main temple, appreciating the serene, unadorned Digambar representation. :
Explore the Nandyavart Mahal: Visit the reconstruction or depiction of the Nandyavart Mahal (the birthplace palace) to visualize the site's historical significance. :
Learn the History: Spend time in the museum and the photo gallery to learn about the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira and the history of the Digambar sect's belief in Kundalpur. :
Observe the Sacred Lakes: Sit by the two ancient Pushkarnis (Dirga and Pan...
Information
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Why Famous:
Birthplace of Mahavira (Digambar) The primary fame stems from the belief, held by the Digambar sect, that this is the precise location of the Nandyavart Palace where Lord Mahavira took birth, making it an essential Janmabhoomi for them. :
Magnificent Kirti Stambh: It...Birthplace of Mahavira (Digambar) The primary fame stems from the belief, held by the Digambar sect, that this is the precise location of the Nandyavart Palace where Lord Mahavira took birth, making it an essential Janmabhoomi for them. :
Magnificent Kirti Stambh: It is renowned for its grand Kirti Stambh (Pillar of Glory), a modern architectural marvel within the premises that distinctly marks the sacred spot and is a major photographic subject. :
The Palace Museum: The complex houses a depiction of the actual Nandyavart Mahal and a gallery showcasing the 16 auspicious dreams of Trishala, which is a significant attraction for understanding the Jain birth narrative. : -
Architecture:
Architectural Elements and Focus: The architecture is large-scale and grand, designed for pilgrims. The main temple is often crowned with a prominent spire (Shikhara). A distinguishing feature is the tall Keerthi Sthambha (Pillar of Fame) adorned with eight idols of Lord M...Architectural Elements and Focus: The architecture is large-scale and grand, designed for pilgrims. The main temple is often crowned with a prominent spire (Shikhara). A distinguishing feature is the tall Keerthi Sthambha (Pillar of Fame) adorned with eight idols of Lord Mahavir, symbolizing the temple's importance. :
Idol Dimension and Posture: The central, venerated idol of Bhagwan Mahavira is typically large, often around 4. 5 feet in height, seated in the Padmasana (lotus position). The Digambar tradition dictates that the idol is unadorned, reflecting the ascetic nature of the Tirthankara. :
Auxiliary Structures: The complex includes several temples, like the Nandyavrat Mahal structure, and two sacred lotus lakes (Dirga Pushkarni and Pandava Pushkarni), all built using modern materials like marble and concrete to facilitate a large influx of devotees. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Patna Airport (PAT) (95 KM) is generally preferred for its better connectivity, or Gaya International Airport (GAY) (85 KM). Hire a taxi from the airport to Kundalpur (2. 5 to 3 hours drive). :
By Train: The most active station is Bi... -
Near Tourist Places:
Jain Temple, Kundalpur (Shwetambar) (1 KM), Nalanda University Ruins (6 KM), Nalanda Archaeological Museum (6 KM), Black Buddha Temple (7 KM), Nav Nalanda Mahavihara (8 KM), Surya Mandir (Bargaon) (8 KM), Pawapuri Jal Mandir (14 KM), Rajgir (Vishwa Shanti Stupa) (18 KM), Hot Springs (Rajgir) (19 KM), Ghorakatora Lake (Rajgir) (17 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Given the sanctity of the site, be mindful of the large crowds during festival times. Wear non-leather items and remove shoes/slippers before entering all temple areas. :
Packing: Carry a scarf or shawl for women to cover th...
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