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How can I plan my visit to Muktagiri ?
Muktagiri Jain Temple is a lovely temple near Paratwada. It’s not easy to reach by public transport, but the roads are good. For help planning your visit, you can call Bhushan Sir at 7498383345. He will understand what you need and help you plan your trip to Muktagiri Jain Temple.
History of Muktagiri
Muktagiri is an ancient Kshetra with a rich history that dates back 2500 years. According to inscriptions on a copper palate(Tamra Patra), the Guha Mandir on the hill was constructed by Emperor Shrenik Bimbasar during the time of Bhagwan Mahaveer. King Ail Shripal of Elichpur later developed the Kshetra about 1000 years ago and commissioned the creation of several temples and idols, including the Antariksha Parshvanath and Ellora idols, and the construction of cave temples.
The Kalamkar Family, residing in Sultanpura (Achalpur), has managed the entire range of Satpuda Hill, along with 52 Digambar Jain Temples, since 1923. The family purchased the land from Mr. Khaparde, who was previously collecting a surcharge from Jain devotees. They built a Dharamshala and Mahavir Temple on the foothill, and in 1956, a public trust was formed to manage the holy place.
The Kalamkar Family continues to manage the site to this day. In 1980, 108 Shri. Vidyasagar Maharaj completed a chaturmas at Muktagiri, which led to a significant renovation and transformation of the Kshetra.
How it is named Muktagiri ?
According to legend, when the Samavsharan of the 10th Teerthankar, Bhagwan Sheetalnath, arrived at Muktagiri, there was a shower of pearls (Moti, Mukta). It is believed that this divine event gave the holy place its name, “Muktagiri,” which means “hill of pearls.” This event is significant in Jainism and adds to the spiritual significance of Muktagiri as a Teerth Kshetra.
Temples and Idols of Muktagiri
Muktagiri Siddha Kshetra is home to 52 temples, and separate routes are designated for ascending up and descending down the hill. The 10th temple, known as the Mendhagiri temple, and the 26th temple, the main temple, are particularly noteworthy. The Mendhagiri temple is the oldest temple on Muktagiri, dating back to the 10th century, and is believed to have been constructed by King Ail Shripal of Elichpur. It is a cave temple with three doors, and the hall is constructed on four pillars. The walls of this temple are adorned with 72 beautifully carved idols of Teerthankaras. The main temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Parshvanath, and houses a 4-foot-high black-colored Padmasan idol, surmounted by seven serpent hoods. According to legend, King Kotibhatta Shripal saw the idol in his dream, and it was later installed in the temple. The 40th temple is carved into the lap of the mountain, and is both ancient and beautiful. The temple’s symmetry and the exquisite carvings on its walls are noteworthy. The temple’s principal deity is a magnificent idol that is definitely worth seeing.
How to reach Muktagiri Jain Temple ?
Muktagiri Jain Temple is a popular pilgrimage site located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. Here are the different ways to reach Muktagiri Jain Temple:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Muktagiri Jain Temple is Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Airport in Nagpur, which is located approximately 204 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Muktagiri Jain Temple is the Amravati railway station, which is located approximately 68 km away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
- By Road: Muktagiri Jain Temple is well connected by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from nearby cities like Amravati, Betul, and Paratwada. The temple is located on the Paratwada-Betul highway and is easily accessible by road.
Betul to Muktagiri distance : 100 kms | 2.5 hours drive
Bhopal to Muktagiri distance : 275 kms | 6 hours drive
Chikhaldara to Muktagiri distance : 46 kms | 1.5 hours drive
Akola to Muktagiri distance : 114 kms | 2.5 hours drive
Once you reach the town of Muktagiri, the temple is situated at height, you need to climb through many stairs. Physical fitness is required to access temples through multiple stairs.
Muktagiri Jain Dharamshala Booking
There is no facility available for online Dharamshala booking. You can directly visit dharamshala or call over telephone for dharamshala booking.
Address: Shri Digambar Jain Siddha Kshetra Muktagiri (Mendhagiri)
Place & Post – Thapoda, Taluka – Bhensdehi,
District – Betul (M.P.) Pin – 420260
Contact Us for Muktagiri Darshan Trip. We will take care of your travel, accomodation, food etc.
Available Facilities at Muktagiri Jain Temple:
Vidya Sagar Bhavan : 16 rooms
Manastambha Dharamshala : 13 rooms
Shanti Nilayam : 21 rooms
Dormitory : 9 nos
Dharamshala : 20 rooms
Management of Muktagiri Jain Temple reserves right of Dharamshala booking, however you can contact us for Muktagiri Jain Temple Dharamshala booking, we can offer our support for Muktagiri Jain Temple Dharamshala bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
Why Muktagiri is famous ?
Muktagiri is a famous Teerth Kshetra (pilgrimage site) for followers of Jainism. It is known for its 52 ancient temples, including the Mendhagiri Temple which is believed to be the oldest one. Muktagiri is also famous for the shower of pearls (Moti, Mukta) that is said to have occurred when the Samavsharan of the 10th Teerthankar Bhagwan Sheetalnath arrived there, giving the place its name. The temples and idols in Muktagiri are considered to be quite antique and beautifully carved, dating back to the 16th century. The main temple of Muktagiri is dedicated to Bhagwan Parshvanath, with a magnificent black-colored Padmasan idol surmounted by seven serpent hoods. The beauty and history of these temples make Muktagiri a popular pilgrimage destination for Jains.
Who built Muktagiri Temple ?
Muktagiri Temple is said to have been built by Emperor Shrenik Bimbasar of Magadh about 2500 years ago. Later, King Ail Shripal of Elichpur (Achalpur) developed the Kshetra about 1000 years ago and got many temples and idols carved artistically. The Muktagiri Temple was also maintained and managed by the Kalamkar Family since 200 years and given a complete face-lift after 108 Shri Vidyasagar Maharaj completed a chaturmas at the site in 1980.
How many steps are there in Muktagiri?
Muktagiri Jain Temple complex is located on a hill and one has to climb approximately 600 stairs to reach the temple. The climb is a bit steep, but the view from the top is definitely worth the effort.
