
Parshvanath Temple
A serene Jain temple in Khajuraho, famed for its 10th-century intricate stone carvings and peaceful spiritual ambiance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Peaceful and cool atmosphere

Parshvanath Temple
Best Time
Peaceful and cool atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Jain temple in Khajuraho, famed for its 10th-century intricate stone carvings and peaceful spiritual ambiance.
"A quieter, more peaceful experience compared to the Western group, but equally captivating."

🎯 Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees. Avoid leather items as per temple rules.
🤫 Maintain Silence
The temple is a place of worship; keep noise levels low to respect the serene environment.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Outer Wall Carvings
Exterior walls
Marvel at the detailed stone carvings depicting deities, mythical creatures, and daily life. A true testament to ancient artistry.

Serene Inner Sanctum
Main temple hall
Experience the peaceful aura of the inner sanctum, home to the image of Parshvanath. Ideal for quiet contemplation and prayer.

Architectural Grandeur
Temple complex
Admire the largest temple among the Jain group, showcasing advanced architectural styles and historical significance.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees. Avoid leather items as per temple rules.
🤫 Maintain Silence
The temple is a place of worship; keep noise levels low to respect the serene environment.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of others and avoid flash inside the main sanctum.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as you explore the temple complex.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees. Avoid leather items as per temple rules.
🤫 Maintain Silence
The temple is a place of worship; keep noise levels low to respect the serene environment.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of others and avoid flash inside the main sanctum.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months, as you explore the temple complex.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Parshvanath Temple for its serene atmosphere, intricate ancient carvings, and peaceful ambiance, making it a captivating spiritual and artistic experience. While some note a slight musty smell, the overall sentiment highlights its value as a less crowded, tranquil alternative to the main Khajuraho monuments.
"Discover the vibrant Jain temple cluster in Khajurao, captured in 1885: from left to right, a small temple, the stunning Parshvanath temple with entrance, the majestic Adinath temple, two smaller temples with ruins and three columns, and envision the serene Shantinath temple, nestled out of view to the left"
Sangram Pungavkar
"A quieter, more peaceful experience compared to the Western group, but equally captivating. These temples reflect the influence of Jain and Hindu traditions and are less crowded, allowing for a serene exploration. The Parsvanath and Adinath temples have finely detailed carvings and an air of spiritual tranquility. Ideal for those who enjoy both art and quiet contemplation."
Vivek Sudhakaran
"Parshvanath Digambar Jain Temple in Khajuraho is a peaceful and holy place. The temple has beautiful old carvings and a calm atmosphere. It's a great spot to sit quietly, meditate, or pray. Jain rules like cleanliness, silence, and respect are followed here. Visitors are asked to remove leather items and keep the place clean. A must-visit for anyone looking for peace and spiritual vibes."
Yash Jain
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Parshvanath Temple is located in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. You can reach Khajuraho by air via Khajuraho Airport (HJR), which has flights from major Indian cities. Alternatively, you can take a train to Khajuraho Railway Station (KURJ). From the railway station or airport, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to take you to the temple complex.
Yes, the Parshvanath Temple is part of the Jain temple group in Khajuraho and is well-signposted. It's often visited alongside other famous Khajuraho temples, so local guides and signage will direct you.
The Jain temples are relatively close to each other. You can walk between them, especially if you're exploring the eastern group where Parshvanath Temple is located. Auto-rickshaws are also a convenient option for shorter distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Parshvanath Temple itself is generally free, as it is an active place of worship. However, there might be a nominal fee for entry into the broader Khajuraho Group of Monuments complex, which is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. It's advisable to check the latest entry fees for the monument complex.
The temple is typically open from sunrise to sunset, allowing ample time for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the exact timings locally, as they can sometimes vary.
Visitors are expected to adhere to temple etiquette, which includes dressing modestly, removing leather items, and maintaining silence. Photography might be restricted in certain areas, especially inside the main sanctum.
While entry to the temple itself is usually free, tickets for the broader Khajuraho Group of Monuments can often be booked online through official government tourism websites to save time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Parshvanath Temple is one of the largest and finest Jain temples in Khajuraho, originally dedicated to Adinatha but now housing an image of Parshvanatha. It's renowned for its intricate carvings and spiritual tranquility, reflecting a blend of Jain and Hindu traditions.
The temple's outer walls are adorned with detailed stone carvings depicting deities, mythical creatures like the 'Shardul' in almost every column, and scenes from mythology. These carvings are remarkably intact and showcase the artistic prowess of the era.
Compared to the Western Group of temples, the Jain temples, including Parshvanath, are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful and serene experience for visitors.
Take your time to admire the detailed carvings on the exterior. Inside, find a quiet spot for reflection or prayer. The temple's calm atmosphere is ideal for meditation.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available near the monument complexes in Khajuraho. It's advisable to carry your own water bottle, especially during hotter months.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the temple premises, but it's best to avoid using flash inside the main sanctum to respect the sanctity of the place and other visitors. Always check for specific signage regarding photography restrictions.
The intricately carved exterior walls offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The late afternoon sun can cast a beautiful golden glow on the stone, enhancing the details of the sculptures.
Focus on capturing the details of the carvings. Wide-angle shots can showcase the temple's grandeur, while close-ups highlight the artistry. Be patient and wait for moments when there are fewer people around for clearer shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to prepare children for the need for quiet and respectful behavior within the temple premises. The less crowded nature of the Jain temple group compared to the main Khajuraho monuments can make it a more manageable experience for families. Ensure everyone is dressed modestly and carries water, especially during warmer months.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to absorb the peaceful ambiance, admire the ancient artistry, and connect with the spiritual energy of the place. The temple's historical depth combined with its devotional purpose offers a profound experience for those looking for a meaningful journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Parshvanath Temple
Architecturally, the temple is distinguished by its detailed stone carvings that adorn its outer walls, with a mythical creature known as 'Shardul' appearing in almost every column. These carvings are remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the artistic and religious expressions of the era. Unlike some other temples, the Parshvanath Temple is noted for its unique feature of having two vedicas (altars) – one at the front and another at the back. The temple's construction reflects the grandeur and architectural sophistication achieved during King Dhanga's reign, a period of significant territorial expansion and cultural development for the Chandela rulers.
While the temple offers a serene spiritual experience, some visitors have noted a slight musty smell due to trapped moisture within the premises. This is a minor point in an otherwise captivating historical and spiritual site. The temple's less crowded nature compared to the Western Group of monuments makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter, more contemplative exploration of Khajuraho's rich heritage.
Experiencing Spirituality at Parshvanath Temple
Adherence to Jain principles of cleanliness, silence, and respect is paramount within the temple. Visitors are encouraged to embrace this ethos, contributing to the overall peaceful ambiance. The temple's less crowded nature, especially when compared to the more famous Western Group of temples, allows for a more personal and immersive spiritual experience. It’s a place where one can truly connect with the history and the devotional practices that have been upheld for centuries.

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