सारनाथ जैन मंदिर

Just southwest of the Dhamek Stupa, in the serene green of Sarnath, lies the Shri Digambar Jain Temple, also known as Shreyanshnath Temple—a sacred place for those who follow the  path of non-violence.  

This temple, built in 1824, marks the birthplace of Shreyanshnath, the 11th Jain Tirthankara, one of four who were born near Varanasi—an auspicious fact that enriches this site’s spiritual aura. It stands as part of the Sarnath Jain Tirth, a pilgrimage cluster that celebrates both birth and enlightenment events tied to the Tirthankaras.  

Approach the temple and you’ll be greeted by its graceful shikhara, rising above columns and peaceful courtyards. Inside, a black marble idol of Shreyanshnath sits in meditative  calm, while frescoes on the walls depict the life of Mahavira and other Tirthankaras. The design, blending traditional Jain architecture with gentle local influences, evokes serenity rather than spectacle.  

Open from sunrise to sunset, the temple welcomes pilgrims and curious visitors without charge. Many approach after visiting Buddhist ruins, offering prayers to acknowledge intertwined spiritual heritage.