Pawapuri Jal Mandir
The Pawapuri Jal Mandir (Water Temple) is a breathtakingly beautiful and one of the holiest places for Jains worldwide, marking the spot where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, attained Nirvana (spiritual liberation) in 527 BCE. After his cremation, a large pond formed due to devotees taking soil as a relic. The current white marble temple, appearing to float on the center of this large sacred pond (Kamal Sarovar or Lotus Pond), is a modern masterpiece built in the late 19th century. The temple is accessed via a long, 600-foot stone bridge, which connects it to the mainland. Inside the main sanctum, the idol of Lord Mahavira is venerated. The serene, picturesque environment, with the temple's white structure reflecting perfectly in the surrounding water, creates an atmosphere of profound peace and spiritual contemplation. The site also includes the Samavasaran, the hall where Mahavira is said to have delivered his final sermon, and a small temple marking the spot of his cremation (Samosharan Temple). It is a vital and picturesque stop on the Jain pilgrimage circuit of Bihar and is highly renowned for its unique location and architectural beauty.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1. 5 Hours to 2 Hours:Place Type:
Jain Pilgrimage Site, Religious Monument, Scenic SEntry Fees:
Indian Nationals: Entry is Free to the temple. The site is maintained by the Jain community through voluntary donations (Dan). :
Foreign Nationals: Entry is Free. Visitors must dress modestly and adhere to the strict conduct required in a m...Indian Nationals: Entry is Free to the temple. The site is maintained by the Jain community through voluntary donations (Dan). :
Foreign Nationals: Entry is Free. Visitors must dress modestly and adhere to the strict conduct required in a major place of worship. :
Parking Fee: There is a small, nominal fee for vehicle parking near the entrance to the bridge. :
Special Puja Fees: Organizing and participating in elaborate, personalized rituals for the Charan Paduka may involve a donation paid to the temple trust, but general Darshan is free. :Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from Sunrise (6:00 AM) to Sunset (7:00 PM), with the bridge access closing at dusk. :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) is the most visually stunning time, as the water is still, and the temple r...Regular Timings: Open daily from Sunrise (6:00 AM) to Sunset (7:00 PM), with the bridge access closing at dusk. :
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) is the most visually stunning time, as the water is still, and the temple reflects beautifully, and the air is cool for the long walk. :
Festival Rush: During Deepawali, the temple remains open much later, but the crowds are immense and movement is restricted. Plan to arrive very early during peak festival season. :Special Events:
Deepawali (Nirvan Kalyanak) The night of Deepawali (October/November) is the most crucial event, as Jains celebrate the Nirvan Kalyanak (day of liberation) of Lord Mahavira, featuring continuous prayers, thousands of lamps, and a massive pilgrimage gathering. :
Paryushan...Deepawali (Nirvan Kalyanak) The night of Deepawali (October/November) is the most crucial event, as Jains celebrate the Nirvan Kalyanak (day of liberation) of Lord Mahavira, featuring continuous prayers, thousands of lamps, and a massive pilgrimage gathering. :
Paryushan Parva: The annual period of intense fasting and repentance (typically August or September) sees a high influx of devout pilgrims performing rituals at this ultimate liberation site. :
Mahavir Jayanti: The birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira (March/April) is celebrated with special prayers and cultural events, though the focus here is primarily on his liberation. :Best Photo Spots:
Reflection of the Temple: The definitive photo is a wide shot from the mainland, capturing the entire white marble Jal Mandir and its perfect reflection in the water of the Kamal Sarovar, ideally at sunrise or sunset. :
The Bridge Perspective:Reflection of the Temple: The definitive photo is a wide shot from the mainland, capturing the entire white marble Jal Mandir and its perfect reflection in the water of the Kamal Sarovar, ideally at sunrise or sunset. :
The Bridge Perspective: Photograph the long stone bridge leading to the temple, using the receding lines of the bridge to create a sense of scale and journey. :
Lotus Flowers and Temple: A close-up shot capturing the white marble of the temple framed by the colorful lotus flowers (when in season) blooming in the sacred pond. :
The Footprints' View: A respectful, close-up photograph of the Charan Paduka (footprints) in the inner sanctum, symbolizing the moment of Nirvana (if permitted and without flash). :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Walk the Stone Bridge: Take a meditative walk across the long stone bridge to the temple, enjoying the view of the water and the surrounding lotuses, preparing the mind for devotion. :
Perform Darshan: Offer prayers and pay homage to the revered Charan Paduka (footprints) of Lord Mahavira in the main sanctum of the floating temple. :
Capture the Reflection: Spend time taking photographs of the temple's perfect reflection in the still waters of the Kamal Sarovar from the mainland shore, especially during the soft light hours. :
Circumambulate the Pond: Take a full walk around the perimeter of the Kamal Sarovar, an act of reverence for the sacred body of water, offering different views of the temple. :
Visit the Samosharan Temple: Pay ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Site of Nirvana: It is famous worldwide as the sacred spot where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana (Moksha) on the night of Deepawali, making it a place of utmost spiritual importance for all Jains. :
The Floating Temple: The temple's unique and...Site of Nirvana: It is famous worldwide as the sacred spot where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana (Moksha) on the night of Deepawali, making it a place of utmost spiritual importance for all Jains. :
The Floating Temple: The temple's unique and highly picturesque location—a dazzling white marble structure set in the center of a large, beautiful lotus pond (Kamal Sarovar) and accessed by a bridge—makes it an architectural marvel and a top tourist attraction. :
Deepawali Significance: It is a critical pilgrimage destination during Deepawali (October/November), as this is the night of Lord Mahavira's final liberation, drawing massive crowds for the prayers. : -
Architecture:
Unique Temple-in-a-Tank Design: The temple is built in a distinctive Vimana (temple carriage) style, entirely with white marble, and is located on a small island in the center of the vast Kamal Sarovar (Lotus Pond), which is a key architectural feature. :
Read MoreUnique Temple-in-a-Tank Design: The temple is built in a distinctive Vimana (temple carriage) style, entirely with white marble, and is located on a small island in the center of the vast Kamal Sarovar (Lotus Pond), which is a key architectural feature. :
Bridge and Symmetry: The temple is connected to the shore by a long, approximately 180-meter (600 feet) sandstone bridge. The architectural beauty is heightened by its perfect symmetry and the dazzling reflection of the white structure in the surrounding water. :
Material and Aesthetic: The use of pure white marble and intricate carvings gives the temple a look of spiritual purity, distinctly Jain in its aesthetic, which aims to represent the sublime state of Nirvana achieved by Lord Mahavira at this spot. :How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Gaya International Airport (GAY) (85 KM), followed by Patna Airport (PAT) (90 KM). The drive takes approximately 2 hours by private taxi. :
By Train: The closest railhead is Pawapuri Road Halt Railway Sta...Near Tourist Places:
Samosharan Temple (Pawapuri) (0. 5 KM), Gunawayaji (Jain Teerth) (12 KM), Bihar Sharif (15 KM), Kundalpur Jain Temples (15 KM), Nalanda University Ruins (18 KM), Surya Mandir (Bargaon) (18 KM), Rajgir (Vishwa Shanti Stupa) (25 KM), Hot Springs (Rajgir) (27 KM), Bimbisar Jail (Rajgir) (28 KM), Venuvan (Rajgir) (25 KM)Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The bridge can be crowded, so walk carefully. Since the temple is in a pond, be cautious near the water's edge. Carry basic first-aid for minor issues. :
Packing: Wear modest clothing, covering the knees and shoulders. All...
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