Muktagiri Jain Temple: Location, History, How to reach, Timings

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Muktagiri Jain Temple

Muktagiri Jain Temple: Jainism is one of the earliest religions in India, and its central tenets are nonviolence and karma. The majority of its adherents can be found in western and northwestern regions of India, particularly in the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and certain regions of Karnataka.

Numerous Jain temples devoted to the religion’s Tirthankaras are located in these states, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year due to their magnificent architectural designs and environment. The Muktagiri Jain temples of Betul, on the frontier of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, are a pilgrimage site for tens of thousands of Jainism devotees.

India is home to over 10,000 significant Jain temples dedicated to the religion’s 24 Tirthankaras. With over 5 million adherents, this is the sixth greatest religion in India. Mahavir Jayanti is the most important celebration held in these temples. Numerous Jain community members are observed visiting these temples in pursuit of Nirvana or salvation.

Muktagiri Jain Temple is a Jain pilgrimage site located in Betul district on the frontier of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. In close proximity to the temple rocks is a cascade that is the primary attraction of the location. It is 600 metres above the earth and there are stairs leading upwards.

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Muktagiri Jain Temple: Location, History, How to reach, Timings

There are approximately 350 steps leading to the summit of the rocks. Local belief holds that whoever visits this temple is one step closer to Nirvana or salvation, regardless of religion. From Bhopal, the temple is approximately 275 kilometres away, and from Mumbai, it is approximately 677 kilometres. The nearest train station is approximately 55 kilometres distant from the temple; bus service is available from Amravati station to the Muktagiri temple.

Sheetalnath, the tenth Tirthankara, is believed to have been showered with pearls when he visited this location, hence the origin of the name. Additionally, it is believed that every eight centuries, saffron rain occurs in the region. There are approximately 52 temples in the vicinity, the oldest of which is a cave believed to have been constructed around 2,500 years ago by Emperor Bimbisar.

Shripal, the king of Achalpur, established this site as a tirtha kshetra approximately 1,500 years ago. Supposedly, the family of Kalamkar has managed this temple complex for the past two centuries. In addition to the ancient cave sanctuary, the Kalamkars erected a number of other temples in the area.

There is a lovely stop between the steps near the waterfall that provides a breathtaking view of the natural grandeur of the area, particularly the waterfall. A blend of ancient and contemporary Jain architecture can be observed in the temples, which feature beautifully crafted pillars and domes that attract the attention of visitors.

In the cave sanctuary, there is a colossal statue of Parshavnath. In the ancient cave temples, 72 statues of Tirthankaras have been carved. Palanquins are available to transport physically challenged individuals to the summit of the hill. The divine ambiance of the location enhances the marvellous natural beauty and tranquilly of the location.

December to February and July to September are the ideal months to visit the temple. The most important festival of the Temple of Muktagiri is Mahavir Jayanti when tens of thousands of Jainism adherents visit this location.

The entrance to the temple is free. The temple is open to all from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the morning. But entry is strictly prohibited after 11 a.m. The temple’s contact number is +91 72184 28066 or +91 91127 58008.

Near the temple complex, the Muktagiri Dharmashala is a place for pilgrims to remain. There are numerous additional hotels near the temple. Popular hotels include Hotel Konark, Aadya Hill View resort, Hotel Golden Plaza, and Hotel Ayushi Resort, among others; average room rates range from 999 to 2800 rupees per night, which are very reasonable for this location.

Numerous saints are said to have attained Nirvana after visiting Muktagiri. Which is mentioned in the sacred scriptures of the Jain religion. The divine atmosphere of the temple is the area’s primary draw for pilgrims. It is ideal to be able to investigate the entire area on foot. The complex’s breathtaking view attracts tens of thousands of visitors from all over India. When visiting the Muktagiri Jain temple, visitors can spend two to three hours of quality time.

FAQs

Where is the Jain temple Muktagiri located?

The Muktagiri Jain temple is situated on the frontier between the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh.

How do I get to the Muktagiri Jain Temple?

Amravati is the closest train station to the sanctuary; from Amravati, bus services are available to transport pilgrims to the temple.

What is the number of sanctuaries in Muktagiri?

The earliest of the 52 temples in the Muktagiri complex is a cave temple.

Who constructed the earliest temples in Muktagiri?

The earliest cave temple of Muktagiri was constructed by Emperor Bimbisar approximately 2,500 years ago.

Is there a fee to enter the Muktagiri Jain Mandir?

There are no entry fees at the Muktagiri temple.

What are the hours of operation for Muktagiri Jain Temples?

The temple is open to all from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the morning, but entry is strictly prohibited after 11 a.m.

When is the optimal period to visit Muktagiri?December to February and July to September are the ideal months to visit the temple.