About the Temple
The Kumbhariya Jain Temple, located in Banaskantha, Gujarat, is a revered religious site known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. This temple complex, dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras, is an architectural marvel that attracts devotees and tourists alike. Built in the 11th–12th century, the temple is a fine example of intricate marble craftsmanship and reflects the grandeur of Solanki-style architecture.
DescriptionThe Kumbhariya Jain Temple is a group of five majestic Jain temples built in the 11th and 12th centuries during the Chalukya dynasty. Located near Ambaji, these temples showcase stunning Māru-Gurjara architecture with intricate carvings, sculptures, and ornate pillars. The temples are dedicated to prominent Jain Tirthankaras and feature beautifully crafted ceilings, domes, and Shikharas. The complex includes temples dedicated to Mahavira, Shantinatha, Parshvanatha, Neminatha, and Sambhavanatha, each with unique architectural and artistic elements.
Speciality
The temples are celebrated for their exquisite marble carvings, detailed sculptures, and architectural grandeur. Each temple features unique designs, with intricate motifs of deities, musicians, and celestial beings adorning the walls, pillars, and ceilings. The Mahavira Temple, for instance, showcases a marble ceiling depicting scenes from Bahubali's life.
Speciality
Address and Location
Address: Kumbhariya Jain Temples, Kumbhariya Village, Near Ambaji, Banaskantha District, Gujarat 385110, India.
Latitude and Longitude: 24.32417°N, 72.86278°E
Temple Timings
The temples are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Sevas (Services)
The temples offer regular worship services and rituals. Devotees can participate in daily prayers and special ceremonies during Jain festivals. For detailed information on specific sevas, it is advisable to contact the temple administration directly.
Architectural Highlights
The temples exhibit Māru-Gurjara (Solanki) style architecture, characterized by intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and exquisite marble work.
Each temple is built entirely in white marble, adorned with elaborately carved pillars, ceilings, and domes.
Parshvanath Temple is the largest and most prominent, featuring beautiful toranas (ornate gateways), mandapas (pillared halls), and shikharas (towering spires).
The intricate carvings depict stories from Jain scriptures, celestial beings, deities, and floral motifs.
The Mahavira Temple’s ceiling showcases the life of Bahubali, making it a unique visual attraction.
Historical Importance
The temples were built between 1062 and 1231 CE by the Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty, a major ruling power in Gujarat.
The construction is attributed to Jain merchant communities who contributed significantly to the growth of Jain architecture.
It is believed that these temples survived multiple invasions due to their secluded location.
Facilities
Traveling Facilities
Kumbhariya is well-connected by road. Regular bus services operate from major cities in Gujarat to Ambaji, which is approximately 2 km from Kumbhariya.
Food Facilities
A Bhojanshala (dining hall) is available within the temple complex, offering meals to devotees.
Stay Facilities
The temple complex provides a Dharmashala (guest house) with spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities for pilgrims.
Nearest Transportation Hubs
Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Palanpur Junction, located approximately 65 km from Kumbhariya.
Airport: The closest airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, about 180 km away.
Bus Station: Ambaji Bus Station is the nearest, situated around 2 km from the temple complex.
Transportation Routes
By Bus
State transport and private buses regularly ply to Ambaji from cities like Ahmedabad, Palanpur, and Mehsana. From Ambaji, local transport options are available to reach Kumbhariya.
By Train
Trains to Palanpur Junction are available from major cities. From Palanpur, one can hire taxis or use bus services to reach Ambaji and subsequently Kumbhariya.
By Air
After arriving at Ahmedabad Airport, travelers can hire taxis or use bus services to reach Ambaji, followed by local transport to Kumbhariya.
Nearby Cities
Palanpur: Approximately 65 km
Mehsana: Approximately 120 km
Ahmedabad: Approximately 180 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Ambaji Temple (2 km) – A renowned Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Amba.
Gabbar Hill (4 km) – Believed to be the original seat of the goddess Ambaji, situated near Ambaji town.
Taranga Jain Temples (70 km) – Another group of ancient Jain temples set on a hill.
Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary (50 km) – A wildlife reserve known for its population of Indian sloth bears.
Festivals Celebrated
Mahavir Jayanti (birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira) is celebrated with grand processions and religious rituals.
Paryushan Parva, the most important festival for Jains, is observed with fasting, prayers, and spiritual discourses.
Special religious gatherings take place during Kartiki Purnima, marking the renovation of the temples.
Temple Rules and Guidelines
Dress Code: Modest and traditional attire is recommended. Avoid shorts and sleeveless clothing.
Photography: Restricted inside the temple premises.
Silence and Cleanliness: Devotees are expected to maintain silence and respect the sacredness of the place.
Food Restrictions: Strictly vegetarian food only; no consumption of onion, garlic, and root vegetables in the temple area.
Entry Fee: Free, but donations for temple maintenance are welcome.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, making it suitable for temple visits and sightseeing.
Shopping Famous For
Jain religious artifacts – Statues of Tirthankaras, framed scriptures, and prayer beads.
Handicrafts – Gujarati embroidery work, bandhani (tie-dye) fabrics, and traditional pottery.
Dry Fruits and Sweets – Shops around Ambaji sell local sweets like Mohanthal and Ghevar.
The Kumbhariya Jain Temple stands as a timeless testament to Gujarat’s rich architectural and spiritual heritage. With its breathtaking carvings and serene ambiance, the temple continues to be an important pilgrimage site for Jains and a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
