Jain Circuit
Bihar is a holy place for the Jains as the last Tirthankara of the Jains was born here. A visit to some of the Jain pilgrim destinations in Bihar offers a view into the life and journey of Lord Mahavira. It is in this land that he gave up his worldly belonging, meditated for years and preached the Jain way of life for the liberation of the self. A journey across this circuit also offers a visit to many more sacred places dedicated to other Jain monks too.
Jal Mandir, Pawapuri at Nalanda
The Jal Mandir meaning Water Temple, also known as Apapuri, in Pawapuri, meaning a town without sins, in the Indian state of Bihar, is a highly revered temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Thirthankara (religious preacher of Jainism) and founder of Jain religion, which marks the place of his cremation. Mahavira attained Nirvana (salvation) in Pawapuri in 528 BC. The temple has been built within a tank filled with red coloured lotus flowers.It is said that the temple was built by King Nandivardhan, Mahavira’s elder brother. It is one of the five main temples in Pawpuri, where the “Charan Paduka” or foot impression of Mahavira is deified.
Jain Mandir, Kundalpur at Rajgir
The Digambar sect of Jains believes that the 24th and the last Tirthankar, Lord Mahavir, was born here. There are many Jain temples in this village. As the place is situated in the vicinity of the ancient city of Rajgir, it is one of the popular destinations of pilgrims as well as travelers. The present temple was however was recently built. The images of 72 Jinas are displayed for offerings in a separate building. The Temple has good accommodation facilities for devotees.
Jain Temple, Lachuar at Jamui
Built in 1874, the Jain temple and Dharamshala at Lachuar is revered by Jains as it serves as a gateway to Kshatriya Kund Gram, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira. This is a large and old rest house (Dharamshala) of 65 rooms constructed for the Jain Pilgrims. There is a Mandir of Lord Mahavira inside the Dharmsala. The idol in this temple is more than 2,600 years old. This black stone idol is of weighs around 250 kg. This is situated on the way of Kshatriya Kund Gram, the birthplace of Lord Mahavira. This place is located in Sikandra block which is approximately 20 km. west from Jamui district headquarter. The temple also organizes regular treks to Kund.