Sri Digambar Jain Temple, Simhapuri, Sarnath

Sri Digambar Jain Temple at Sarnath is of historical significance. It is at this place, which is also called Simhapuri, 11th Tirthankara of Jainism, Shreyansnath was born in the Ikshvaku dynasty. Yes, Lord Ram of Ramayana was also born in Ikshvaku dynasty.

Sri Digambar Jain Temple, Simhapuri, Sarnath

Till we reached Saranth, I was assuming it to be a Buddhist site. But after seeing the Jain Temple, I thought it must be a Jain pilgrimage center too. But the temple was constructed in the 19th century in 1824. Jain Temples are always abode of peace, symbolic of the non-violent religion. In fact, Thousand Pillar Jain temple in Moodabidri near Mangalore is one of my favorite places to unwind. Just sitting in the temple corridor relaxes the mind!

Statue of Shreyansnath, Sri Digambar Jain Temple, Sarnath

Walls of the Jain Temple in Saranth are filled with paintings of episodes from the life of Tirthankaras. Interestingly, doors of the temple are painted in gold. Ornate designs in the enclosure to the statue of Shreyansnath are beautiful. After spending few minutes in the temple, we proceeded towards the Dhamek Stupa, which is just behind the temple.

Inside Jain Temple, Sarnath

Paintings on the walls of Jain Temple, Sarnath

Jain Temple nestled in the nature at Sarnath