The short answer
Choubisi Jain Temple: what visitors should know first
Yes, a calm, rewarding half-hour for anyone interested in Jain art. Dress modestly, remove footwear, avoid leather and expect quiet. Ask about darshan timings because they can vary.
History and context
The story behind Choubisi Jain Temple
One local account dates the temple to 1836 and credits the landlord Choudhury Lala Savai Singh Hridayshah, though the same source describes the first part as ancient. Other sources give different dates, so treat the history as unsettled.
Useful facts
Choubisi Jain Temple facts at a glance
- Location
- Old city, Chanderi, near the Rajmahal
- Faith
- Jainism (Digambar)
- Dedication
- The 24 Tirthankaras
- Visitor note
- Remove footwear and avoid leather
- Built
- Reported as 1836; sources vary
Why it matters
Why Choubisi Jain Temple is worth your time
Chanderi has been an important Jain centre for a long time, and the Choubisi temple is the most accessible example in the town. The 24 statues give a visual guide to Jain tradition, with each Tirthankara distinguished by colour and symbol.
The temple's own history is more recent than some visitors expect. Local accounts give 1836 as the date of construction, although the first part is described as ancient and one visitor review gives a far older date, so the sources are inconsistent. The living pilgrim tradition is the main reason to go.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
24 coloured statues
Each Tirthankara is carved in stone matching the traditional colour.
- 02
The Bahubali statue
A giant figure stands in the first part of the temple.
- 03
Palm-leaf manuscripts
A large collection of Sanskrit manuscripts is held by the temple.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The Choubisi temple, often called the Bada Mandir, has two parts. The first has a large domed ceiling with symbols of the 24 Tirthankaras painted inside and a giant statue of Bahubali. The second part holds the main attraction: large statues of the 24 Tirthankaras, each carved from stone coloured to match the colour associated with that Tirthankara in Jain belief.
A wall inscription gives a verse about these colours. Take time to look along the row and see how the colours change from gold to others. The temple also holds a large collection of Jain palm-leaf manuscripts in Sanskrit, though access to these is a matter for the caretakers.
Behave as you would in any active temple. Remove shoes, avoid leather, keep voices low and follow any guidance from the caretakers. Combine the visit with Raja Rani Mahal, which is nearby.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Dress modestly and avoid leather
- Remove footwear at the entrance
- Ask before photographing the idols
- Check darshan timings locally
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Old city, near Raja Rani Mahal, Chanderi
- Time needed
- 30–45 minutes
- Best time
- Morning, October to March
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The temple is in the town on mostly level ground, with seating in places. There are thresholds and marble floors that can be slippery. Leave footwear outside, which can be hot on stone, so plan accordingly.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is free. Dress modestly and avoid leather items. Photography rules vary, so ask before photographing the idols.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Choubisi Jain Temple
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The temple is in the town on mostly level ground, with seating in places. There are thresholds and marble floors that can be slippery. Leave footwear outside, which can be hot on stone, so plan accordingly.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Who can visit the Choubisi temple?
Visitors of all faiths are generally welcome if they follow the rules on dress, footwear and leather.
How old is it?
One local account says 1836, though sources vary.
What is special about the statues?
Each of the 24 Tirthankaras is carved in stone coloured to match tradition.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
