.webp)
About the Temple
Pawapuri, also known as Apapuri, is a sacred Jain pilgrimage site in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India. It holds immense religious significance as the place where Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, attained Nirvana (liberation) in 527 BC. The name "Pawapuri" translates to "the sinless town," symbolizing its holiness in Jain tradition.
Temple Description
The most renowned temple in Pawapuri is the Jal Mandir (Water Temple). This stunning white marble temple is uniquely built in the center of a lotus-filled pond (Kamal Sarovar) and is connected to the mainland by a 600-foot-long stone bridge. The temple enshrines the Charan Paduka (foot impression) of Lord Mahavira, marking the exact spot of his cremation.
Speciality of the Temple
The Jal Mandir is built in the middle of a lake, symbolizing purity and serenity.
It follows the Jain principles of non-violence and renunciation.
The lotus-filled pond is home to various fish species, emphasizing compassion towards all living beings.
The temple's unique architecture, its spiritual ambiance, and the serene natural surroundings make it a peaceful place for meditation.
Temple Information
Address
Shri Jal Mandir, Pawapuri, District - Nalanda, Bihar, India, Pincode: 803115
Location Coordinates
Latitude: 25.0230° N, Longitude: 85.4215° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Evening: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Sevas (Services)
Daily rituals and prayers.
Special ceremonies during Diwali (celebrating Lord Mahavira’s Nirvana).
Offering of Nirvana Ladoo as a part of temple traditions.
Travel and Connectivity
By Air
Nearest Airport: Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport, Patna (101 km away).
From Patna, taxis and buses are available to Pawapuri.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Rajgir Railway Station (19 km away).
Visitors can hire taxis or use local transport from Rajgir to reach Pawapuri.
By Road
Pawapuri is well connected by road with Patna, Rajgir, and Nalanda.
Regular bus services and taxis are available from these cities.
Bus Routes
Buses from Patna, Rajgir, and Nalanda frequently operate to Pawapuri.
Train Routes
Trains from major cities like Patna run to Rajgir Railway Station, from where visitors can take local transport.
Airways to the Temple
The closest airport is Patna, from where visitors can travel to Pawapuri by road (bus/taxi).
Facilities
Food Facilities
Local eateries serve vegetarian meals in Pawapuri.
Nearby towns like Rajgir and Nalanda offer a wider variety of dining options.
Stay Facilities
Limited pilgrim accommodations in Pawapuri.
Rajgir and Nalanda have hotels and guesthouses catering to different budgets.
Nearby Places of Interest
Nearby Cities
Rajgir – 19 km
Nalanda – 30 km
Patna – 101 km
Nearby Temples & Tourist Attractions
Gaon Mandir – Marks the site of Lord Mahavira's Nirvana.
Samosharan Temple – Represents the hall where Mahavira gave his last sermon.
Nalanda University Ruins – An ancient UNESCO World Heritage site.
Rajgir – Famous for hot springs and significant to both Jainism and Buddhism.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the ideal season due to pleasant weather.
Diwali is an important occasion, drawing Jain devotees for special celebrations.
Shopping – Famous For
Jain religious artifacts – Idols, books, and paintings.
Handicrafts and Madhubani paintings – Traditional artwork of Bihar.
Local sweets – Famous treats like Thekua and Khaja.
Brass and stone sculptures – Miniature idols and souvenirs of Jain Tirthankaras.
