Pawapuri, Nalanda - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 13 km from Nalanda, and 21 km from Rajgir, Pawapuri, or Pawa is a sacred place located near Nalanda in Bihar. It is one of the prominent holy sites for Jains in India, and among the popular places to visit in Nalanda.

Pawapuri is considered as one of the major pilgrimage centers in India amongst Jain followers as it is the land where Lord Mahavira took his last breath in 527 BC. The name Pawapuri means a town without sins. Dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, the Jal Mandir, or Water Temple in Pawapuri marks the place of his cremation. The temple was originally built by King Nandivardhan, the elder brother of Mahavira. It is one of the five main temples in Pawpuri, where the 'Charan Paduka' or foot impression of Mahavira is deified.

Jal Mandir is built in white marble within the water tank that measures 16.8 acres. The water surface of the lake is covered with lotuses. This architecturally elegant temple in the form of a 'Vimana' or chariot has the footprint of Mahavira for worship. A 600-foot-long (180 m) bridge built in stone connects the temple with the bank of the pond. The temple shines bright and sublime during a moonlit night. The pond has many species of fish that are fed by the priests and devotees.

There are many more beautiful places which can be visited in Pawapuri. These include Gaon Mandir which is the temple of the village and the place where Lord Mahavira took his last breath. Another beautiful Jain temple of white marble called Samosharan is located at this place where Lord Mahavira had delivered his sermon.

Timings: 6 AM - 12 PM & 4 PM - 7 PM

Entry: Free