Jain temples, Pavagadh, Sacred Jain temple complex on Pavagadh Hill, Gujarat, India
The Jain temples of Pavagadh form a cluster of seven sacred structures spread across different elevations on the hillside, each displaying white marble statues of Tirthankara deities. The buildings feature carefully carved facades paired with interior galleries, shrines, and devotional spaces where carved pillars and walls create intricate patterns throughout.
King Samprati established the first shrine in the 3rd century BC and placed an idol of Tirthankara Sambhavnatha there, making it a center for pilgrimage and worship. Over subsequent centuries, additional temples were built as the site expanded, each reflecting the architectural and devotional practices of its time.
These temples show how faith shaped local craftsmanship, with visitors today seeing people pray while admiring the detailed stonework that lines the walls and courtyards. The site reveals how generations of believers invested their spiritual devotion into every carved detail.
The walk up the hill takes about 2 hours and is broken into sections with temples at different levels along the way. Wear comfortable shoes and plan your visit during cooler morning or early evening hours to make the climb more pleasant.
The site preserves both major branches of Jainism, with each tradition maintaining distinct artistic styles and worship practices in separate areas. This side-by-side presence of different approaches to the same faith offers an unusual glimpse into Jain diversity.
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