South Gujarat is a land of lush hills, gentle rivers, and sacred silence. It holds within it some of the most serene and spiritually elevating Jain temples in India.
Away from the bustling tourist trails, these hidden Jain gems whisper stories of devotion, timeless artistry, and divine peace.
Each temple here is more than a structure of stone or wood. It’s a living testament to centuries of faith and spiritual pursuit.
Let us embark on an explorative journey through these sacred places to visit in South Gujarat that invite you to connect with the divine within.
1. Shri Mahavir Praasad (Shwetambar Jinmandir), Dharampur – A Testament to Divine Craftsmanship
Perched atop the highest peak of Shri Dharampur Tirth, the majestic Shri Mahavir Praasad (Shwetambar Jinmandir) stands resplendent with its 108 intricately carved pillars. Presided over by Bhagwan Mahavir, this temple radiates purity, discipline, and serenity, the very essence of Jain philosophy.
Constructed under the divine guidance of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, the temple beautifully blends Jain scriptures, Shilp Shastra (the science of sculpture), and Vastu Shastra (the science of architecture). Built in the traditional Nagara architectural style, the temple’s intricate detailing and geometric precision evoke a sense of awe.
As you ascend towards the temple in Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, Dharampur, the international headquarters of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, each step feels like a step inward, away from the chaos of the world and closer to the silence of the soul.
The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the rhythmic chants and golden light filtering through the marble corridors, creates a moment of complete stillness, where time seems to dissolve into devotion at this best Jain temple in Gujarat.
The Dining Complex at Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Ashram serves wholesome satvik meals to over 10,000 people at once, prepared in a 25,000 sq. ft. modern kitchen designed for purity and efficiency. And for visitors attending Ashram programmes, there’s peaceful accommodation ranging from dorms to air-conditioned rooms, all surrounded by the serene Dharampur hills
2. Shree Chintamani Parswanath Jain Tirth, Shahpore – The Wooden Wonder of Surat
Hidden in the heart of Mughal Sarai, Surat lies a true spiritual treasure: the Shree Chintamani Parswanath Jain Tirth at Shahpore. Nearly 300 years old, this temple defies expectations of what a Jain temple “should” look like. From the outside, it appears modest, almost blending into its surroundings. But once you step inside, the aura transforms.
Entirely constructed out of wood, the temple’s craftsmanship speaks of an era where devotion was expressed through delicate artistry. Intricate wood carvings, vivid paintings, and an air of timeless calm transport you instantly to another world.
It’s not about grandeur here. It’s about grace. The temple’s quiet, soulful energy invites both Jains and non-Jains alike to pause, breathe, and listen, not to the world outside, but to the still voice within. Truly, this hidden gem deserves a place on every traveler’s itinerary when in Surat.
3. Shree 1008 Vighnhar Parshwanath Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra, Mahuva – Where Divinity Meets Nature
On the serene banks of the Purna River in Mahuva rests the Shree 1008 Vighnhar Parshwanath Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra, an ancient temple that is as breathtaking as it is sacred. Believed to be over 500 years old, this temple is dedicated to Tirthankar Parshwanath and continues to draw devotees seeking spiritual solace.
The setting of this religious place in Gujarat itself feels divine, the gentle flow of the river, the soothing chants echoing through the air, and the sight of devotees offering prayers create a tranquil experience that calms the mind and purifies the heart.
For travelers, the temple offers modern dharamshalas and a Jain bhojnalaya, ensuring comfort for extended stays. Nearby, a small Jain hotel serves authentic Gujarati Jain food, while local stalls offer a traditional breakfast experience by the riverside, completing a journey that nourishes both soul and body.
4. Chintamani Parshwanath Swetamber Murtipujak Jain Temple, Navsari – A Legacy of Faith and Beauty
Centuries ago, Tejpal Shresthi, brother of Minister Vastupal, was moved by the sanctity of Navsari. After his pilgrimage to Soparak, he built a magnificent 52 Jinalay here, installing the idol of Bhagwan Parshvanath as the principal deity for Jainism in India. The idol came to be venerated as the “Navsari Parshvanath”, a name that continues to inspire reverence among Jains worldwide.
The temple stands as a symbol of devotion and architectural brilliance, adorned with beautiful carvings, symmetrical domes, and peaceful sanctums. Every corner whispers stories of faith carried through generations, making it a must-visit for seekers of spiritual beauty and divine tranquility.
A Journey Beyond Sight: Into the Soul
The South Gujarat Temple Trail is not just about visiting temples, but also about rediscovering yourself. Each of these sacred sites, whether ancient or newly built, invites you to step beyond the noise of the world and experience the eternal silence within.
In the still air of these temples, surrounded by chants and timeless art, one realizes that divinity is not distant. It resides quietly within us.
