Banwaripur

Sri Mahavirji Temple

One of the holiest Jain pilgrimage sites, Sri Mahavirji Temple is a white marble and red sandstone wonder, well-known for its sacred idol of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara in Jainism. According to the legend, the idol was miraculously found after excavating the hill where a cow would empty all her milk every single day. It is believed that a mere glance at the idol, made of sandstone in coral colour and depicting Mahavira in Padmasana, can eradicate all the sorrows. Carvings and paintings depicting the mythological scenes on the temple’s walls are extremely exquisite. Another attraction is the Manastambha (a beautiful column) which is about 52 ft. high and flaunts the idols of 4 Tirthankaras facing different directions. High pinnacles and attractive chattris (cenotaphs) are other remarkable features of the temple’s architecture. Located on the bank of River Gambhir, the temple complex also accommodates other small shrines which include Shantinath Jinalaya Temple, Kirti Ashram Chaityalaya Temple, Bhagwan Parshvanath Jinalaya Temple (known for its decorative glass work) and Bhavya Kamal Temple. The temple hosts a grand religious festival during the months of March and April every year.