A “Jain tourism circuit” isn’t a single defined path but a collection of sites across India associated with Jainism, focusing on pilgrimage, architecture, and spirituality. Key locations include the Tirthankar Circuit in Bihar, linking Vaishali, Rajgir, Pawapuri, and Champapuri; the spiritual mountain of Sammed Shikharji in Jharkhand; the intricate marble temples of Ranakpur and the monolithic Gommateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola in Rajasthan and Karnataka, respectively; and the temple city of Palitana in Gujarat.
Key Jain Tourism Circuits & Locations
Bihar Tirthankar Circuit: This Ministry of Tourism-developed circuit in Bihar is under implementation and connects several important Jain sites:
• Vaishali: Associated with the birth of Gautam Gandharv.
• Rajgir: A city surrounded by hills with many Jain temples.
• Pawapuri: A significant pilgrimage site where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana.
• Champapuri: Another holy site linked with the Champapur Jain temple.
Jharkhand Circuit:
• Sammed Shikharji (Shikharji): Located on Parasnath Hill, this is a highly revered pilgrimage site where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras attained salvation.
Rajasthan Circuit:
• Ranakpur: Known for its stunning and intricate marble temples supported by over 1,444 carved pillars.
• Mount Abu: Features important Jain temples with beautiful architecture.
Karnataka Circuit:
• Shravanabelagola: Home to the world-famous monolithic Gommateshwara statue.
• Moodabidri: Known for its 1,000 Pillar Jain temple.
Gujarat Circuit:
• Palitana: A major pilgrimage center with a city of temples atop a hill.
• Girnar: Jain temples are located on the Girnar mountains near Junagadh.
What to Experience
Visitors can experience a spiritual journey filled with intricate architectural marvels, serene environments, and the opportunity to learn about the Jain principles of non-violence and spiritual insights. The circuits provide a mix of cultural heritage and a connection to the profound teachings of Jainism.
Major Jain tourism circuits across India offer a path to explore sacred sites, ancient temples, and colossal statues that showcase the rich history, art, and philosophy of Jainism. The Indian government has also identified and developed these routes under its Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
Northern and Eastern India circuit
This circuit includes some of the most significant sites for both Digambara and Svetambara sects of Jainism.
• Shikharji (Parasnath Hill), Jharkhand: Considered the most sacred Jain pilgrimage site, this is where 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras attained moksha (salvation). The trek to the 31 hilltop shrines is a key spiritual practice for devotees.
• Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh: This ancient city is revered as the birthplace of five Tirthankaras, including Adinatha, the first Tirthankara.
• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The city is the birthplace of Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, and features a temple dedicated to him.
• Hastinapur, Uttar Pradesh: A major Digambara pilgrimage center with several important temples, including the Digamber Jain Bada Mandir.
• Rajgir, Bihar: The ancient capital of the Magadha kingdom, this site is associated with Lord Mahavira and features several Jain temples.
• Pawapuri, Bihar: A key pilgrimage destination where Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. The stunning white marble Jal Mandir is situated in the middle of a large lotus pond.
• Calcutta Jain Temple, West Bengal: A beautifully adorned temple complex dedicated to the 10th Tirthankara, Shitalanatha.
Western India circuit
This region is famous for its intricate marble temples and temple cities built on hills.
• Palitana, Gujarat: The Shatrunjaya hills are a spectacular Jain temple complex, with more than 800 temples built over 900 years. It is a very holy place for the Svetambara sect.
• Girnar, Gujarat: Located on Mount Girnar, this is a sacred site for both Digambara and Svetambara Jains, where the 22nd Tirthankara, Neminatha, attained moksha.
• Dilwara Temples, Rajasthan: Located in Mount Abu, this complex of five ornate marble temples is famous for its intricate carvings and architectural brilliance.
• Ranakpur Jain Temple, Rajasthan: A marvel of 15th-century architecture, this temple is known for its 1,444 uniquely carved pillars.
• Shri Mahavirji, Rajasthan: A major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Mahavira, with a beautiful white marble temple.
• Hutheesing Jain Temple, Ahmedabad: This exquisitely carved, double-storied temple was built in 1848.
Central India circuit
This area features ancient temples and rock-cut caves that reflect Jainism’s deep roots in the region.
• Sonagiri, Madhya Pradesh: Also known as “Golden Peak,” this serene site features a cluster of 77 white Jain temples on a hill, a major pilgrimage spot for the Digambara sect.
• Khajuraho Jain Temples, Madhya Pradesh: Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, these 10th-century temples showcase fine Jain artistry and co-exist with Hindu temples.
• Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh: The fort contains historical Jain rock-cut sculptures inside the Siddhachal Caves.
• Kundalpur, Madhya Pradesh: Known for the colossal statue of Adinatha, one of the tallest Jain idols in the world.
• Muktagiri, Madhya Pradesh: A prominent Jain tirth (pilgrimage site) that is especially important for the Digambara sect.
Southern India circuit
The south is home to some of the oldest Jain traditions and impressive monolithic statues.
• Shravanabelagola, Karnataka: This is the site of the world-famous Gomateshwara statue of Bahubali, carved from a single granite block in 983 CE. The Mahamastakabhisheka festival, held here every 12 years, is a key event.
• Moodabidri, Karnataka: Known as the “Jain Kashi,” it is famous for the Saavira Kambada Basadi, or “Thousand Pillar Temple,” where no two pillars are alike.
• Karkala, Karnataka: Features a 42-foot-tall monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, consecrated in 1432 CE.
• Ellora Caves, Maharashtra: Carved between the 9th and 10th centuries, the Jain caves within this complex are known for their detailed carvings and elaborate art.
• Kulpakji, Telangana: Also known as Kolanupaka Temple, this ancient Svetambara temple is over 2,000 years old and houses idols of Adinatha, Neminatha, and Mahavira.
• Sittanavasal Cave: Tamil Nadu: This 7th-century rock-cut Jain temple features vibrant frescoes and paintings.
