चंद्रावती जैन मंदिर

In the quiet village of Chandrawati, just 20 km from Varanasi, stands a temple that marks the birthplace and spiritual milestones of Chandraprabha, the 8th Jain Tirthankara.  

This sacred site honours the Janma or birth, Tapa or penance, and Gyan or enlightenment Kalyanaks of Chandraprabha—defining moments in his journey. According to Jain texts, he was born to King Mahasena and Queen Lakshmana Devi during auspicious dreams, and renounced the throne for spiritual practice. Within three months attained Kevala Jnana or omniscience under a Naga tree by the Ganges.  

While excavations in 1877 revealed foundations from the 9th–10th centuries, one of the inscriptions dating back to 1091 show royal patronage by the King Chandradeva of the Gahadavala dynasty. Today’s twin temples, both Digambara and Svetambara are modern reconstructions that preserve this ancient lineage.   

The shikhara towers above a serene courtyard, and inside, one can see idols dedicated to Chandraprabha, as well as small shrines and the tranquil Chandrawati Kund. Chandrawati draws thousands of pilgrims annually—especially during Mahavir Jayanti and the spring Chaitra Krishna fair—who come to complete rituals, meditate, and walk this riverside tirth. The site also offers simple lodging through Jain dharamshalas for both Svetambara and Digambara visitors.  

This temple is more than architecture—it’s a living record of Jain heritage and devotion, where history, serenity, and spiritual purity flow together like a slow river toward enlightenment.