Varkana Parshwanath Jain Temple – The Sacred Shrine of Varkanakpur

Mulnayak Idol – Divine Idol of Varkana Parshwanath

The temple houses a 30 cm tall white-colored idol of Bhagwan Varkana Parshwanath in Padmasana posture, with a seven-hooded serpent canopy over the idol’s head. This ancient and miraculous idol is revered for its spiritual significance and artistic beauty.

Varkana Jain Tirth – Location & Sacred Surroundings

The temple is located in Varkana village, Pali district, Rajasthan, an area once known as Vankanakpur, Varkanakgarh, and Varkanaknagar. This historic place was once a large and prosperous Jain city, home to numerous temples, many of which were later buried over time.

Historical Significance – The Ancient Legacy of Varkana Parshwanath

• The idol of Varkana Parshwanath was discovered buried underground by a shepherd, indicating its antiquity and miraculous nature.
• The Jain Sangh built this grand temple and installed the idol, marking it as a sacred site of devotion.
• An inscription from Vikram Samvat 1211 (1154 AD) confirms the historical significance of this temple.
• In the 16th century, during the reign of Maharana Kumbha, a wealthy Shresthi from Shrimalpur built a splendid temple with 52 small shrines and installed the idol.
• Rana Jagatsingh of Mewar abolished the pilgrim tax upon the advice of Acharya Shri Vijaydevsuri, making the temple more accessible to devotees.
• The temple was renovated in Vikram Samvat 1981 (1924 AD), and the idol was reinstalled in Vikram Samvat 2014 (1957 AD).
• Bhagwan Varkana Parshwanath is venerated in the 12th verse of “Sakal-Tirth-Vandana” of Rai Pratikramana, signifying its spiritual importance.

Annual Jain Festivals & Celebrations at Varkana Tirth

A grand fair is held every year on:

• The 10th day of the dark half of Paush month, drawing numerous devotees and pilgrims.
• This temple is a part of the Ranakpur Panchtirthi, making it a key pilgrimage destination.

Other Jain Temples in Varkana – A Lost Legacy

Varkana was once home to many Jain temples, but over time, they disappeared. Today, this temple stands as the only Jain temple in Varkana.

Architectural Grandeur – The Artistic Marvel of Varkana Parshwanath Temple

• The idol of Bhagwan Varkana Parshwanath is renowned for its unique artistic features, making it a masterpiece of Jain sculpture.
• The summit of the temple showcases extraordinary carvings, reflecting exquisite Jain craftsmanship.
• In Vikram Samvat 1707 (1650 AD), an intricately designed Parrikar (backrest carving) was installed, enhancing the idol’s beauty.
• The pillars of the temple feature detailed and artistic carvings, representing the advanced craftsmanship of Jain artisans.

How to Reach Varkana Parshwanath Jain Temple

• Nearest railway stations:
  • Rani – 3 km
  • Falna – 20 km
• By road:
  • Well-connected by bus services and private vehicles from major nearby cities.
• Nearby pilgrimage sites:
  • Ranakpur, Nadol, and Falna are close to this temple.

Accommodation & Facilities at Varkana Jain Tirth

• Dharamshala (lodging) and Bhojanshala (food) facilities are available for pilgrims.
• A Jain Boarding School is also present in Varkana, contributing to the religious and educational development of the Jain community.

Scriptural Mentions of Varkana Parshwanath Temple

This sacred temple is referenced in various Jain scriptures, emphasizing its historical and religious importance:

• “Anand Sundar Granth”
• “Vikram Charitra Panchdand”
• “365 Shri Parshva Jin Naammala”
• “Shri Sankheswar Parshvanath Chand”
• “Shri Bhateva Parshvanath Stavan”
• “Chaityaparipati”
• “Tirthmala”

Temple Trust Information – Shri Varkana Parshwanath Jain Tirth Pedhi

Phone: 02934 – 222257

Managed by: Shri Varkana Parshwanath Jain Shwetambar Tirth Pedhi

Location: Varkana – 306601, District: Pali, Rajasthan, India

Explore More: 108 Parshwanath Names List

For a comprehensive list of Parshwanath temples and their significance, visit the 108 Parshwanath Names List.