What is Jagvallabh Parshwanath Jain Temple?
Shri Jagvallabh Parshwanath Jain Temple is a sacred Jain tirth located on Kumbhojgiri hill near Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Known as the Shatrunjay of South India, this tirth is famous for its serene hilltop location, lush forest surroundings, and the spiritually powerful idol of Bhagwan Jagvallabh Parshwanath.
Who is the Mulnayak at Kumbhojgiri Jain Tirth?
The Mulnayak is a white-colored idol of Bhagwan Jagvallabh Parshwanath, seated in Padmasana posture, measuring about 100 cm in height, with an umbrella of 9 serpent hoods. The idol radiates peace and divinity, attracting thousands of devotees annually.
Where is Jagvallabh Parshwanath Temple Located?
The temple is situated on a forested hill in Kumbhojgiri, near Hathkanangala Railway Station, in Kolhapur District, Maharashtra.
Distances:
- 8 km from Hathkanangala Station (Kolhapur–Miraj Railway line)
- 30 km from Kolhapur City
- 360 steps to the top of the hill, around 15–20 minutes climb
What is the History of Shri Jagvallabh Parshwanath Temple?
The hill has been sacred since ancient times and was known by various names like Niranjangiri, Gairan Ki Pahadi, Nejkumbhoj Ki Pahadi, and Bahubali Ki Pahadi. It was revered by local Jains since the 14th century, with a metal idol originally worshipped here.
Later, in Vikram Samvat 1912, two brothers from Gujarat – Shri Nanchand Bhai and Shri Fatehchand Bhai – initiated the construction of the current temple. A beautiful idol of Bhagwan Parshwanath was brought from Gujarat and installed on Magh Shukla Saptami, V.S. 1926.
In V.S. 1928, temple management was handed to Shri Jain Sangh. A massive Dharamshala was built at the foothill, and a second temple housing the miraculous idol of Kalikund Parshwanath was also constructed. The tirth continues to be a site of annual melas and spiritual festivals.
Why is Kumbhojgiri Known as the Shatrunjay of the South?
Just like Shatrunjay Tirth in Palitana (Gujarat), Kumbhojgiri is located on a sacred hill, requires a climb, and is considered a major spiritual and historical Jain pilgrimage center. Devotees often walk up the hill as an act of devotion, experiencing peace amidst the scenic beauty and forests of South Maharashtra.
Which Festivals and Melas Are Celebrated Here?
Large numbers of Jain devotees visit Kumbhojgiri Tirth during:
- Kartik Purnima
- Chaitri Purnima
- Paush Vad 10
Thousands gather during these events to perform darshan, bhakti, and aarti, adding vibrancy to the spiritual atmosphere.
What Are the Other Temples at Kumbhojgiri?
Besides the main Shwetambar Jain temple, the tirth also includes:
- A temple of Kalikund Parshwanath
- A Digambar Jain temple nearby
This makes Kumbhojgiri a diverse and inclusive Jain tirth for multiple sects.
What is the Art and Architecture of Jagvallabh Parshwanath Temple Like?
The temple is built atop a hill surrounded by dense forest and village farms. Architecturally, it reflects traditional Jain styles, with:
- A majestic hilltop temple structure
- Serene idol of Jagvallabh Parshwanath Bhagwan
- Beautiful panoramic views of nature
- Artistic stonework and peaceful design
How to Reach Jagvallabh Parshwanath Jain Temple, Kumbhojgiri?
Nearest Railway Station:
- Hathkanangala (8 km)
By Road:
- 30 km from Kolhapur
- Regular bus services and private vehicles available to the base of the hill
Climb:
- About 360 steps to the temple – a moderate climb of 15–20 minutes
Facilities at Kumbhojgiri Tirth:
- Dharamshala on the hilltop
- Bhojanshala at the foothill
- Upashraya and Aradhana Hall at the base
- Peaceful environment for tap, sadhna, and samayik
Scriptural Mentions of Jagvallabh Parshwanath Bhagwan
Jagvallabh Parshwanath is mentioned in several revered Jain granths, including:
- Shri Sankheswar Parshwanath Chand
- 108 Naamgarbhit Shri Parshvanath Stavan
- Shri Parshvanath Chaityaparipati
- Shri Parshva Prabhu ke 108 Naam Chand
Other idols of Jagvallabh Parshwanath can be found in:
- Nirapole, Ahmedabad
- Malad (Mumbai) – Devkaran Mooljee ki Vadi
- Vadachour (Surat) – Shri Simandar Swami Temple
- Rander Temple
- Karad, Maharashtra
- Sujangarh, Brahmasar, Kesariyaji, and Jiravala in Rajasthan
Who Manages the Kumbhojgiri Jain Tirth?
Trust Name:
Shri Jagvallabh Parshwanath Jain Shwetambar Mandir Trust
Location: Kumbhojgiri Tirth, Post: Bahubali – 416113, District: Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India
Phone: 0230-2584445
For an extensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names.
