The short answer
Kundalpur Jain Temples (Bade Baba): what visitors should know first
A major Digambar Jain pilgrimage site and worth a morning even if you are not Jain. It is about 35-40 km from Damoh; visit in the cool hours and be prepared for steps.
History and context
The story behind Kundalpur Jain Temples (Bade Baba)
The original Bade Baba temple is estimated to date to around the 6th century, though other accounts give the 8th to 10th centuries. An inscription of 1700 CE records renovation by disciples of Bhattaraka Surendrakirti with help from the Bundela ruler Chhatrasal. Early scholars misidentified the statue; later study established it depicts Rishabhanatha.
Useful facts
Kundalpur Jain Temples (Bade Baba) facts at a glance
- Location
- Kundalpur, about 35-40 km north-east of Damoh
- Faith
- Jainism (Digambar)
- Deity/dedication
- Rishabhanatha (Adinath), Bade Baba
- Visitor note
- Remove footwear; avoid leather inside
- Built
- Main temple dated variously from 6th to 10th century; renovated 1700
Why it matters
Why Kundalpur Jain Temples (Bade Baba) is worth your time
Kundalpur is one of the principal Digambar Jain pilgrimage sites in central India, and Bade Baba is among its best-known images. Its fame reaches well beyond the region, and photographs of the statue appear widely.
For a visitor, the complex is also an architecture stop, with temples dating from different periods and a lake shrine that is a protected monument. It repays an unhurried visit, especially in the morning when pilgrims are arriving.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Bade Baba statue
A 15-foot seated Rishabhanatha, flanked by Parshvanatha images.
- 02
Jal Mandir
A lake shrine at the foot of the hill in the Vardhamana pond.
- 03
Temple cluster
Dozens of temples on the hill and around the pond.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Start at the foot of the hill, where temples ring the Vardhamana pond and the Jal Mandir stands in the water. Then climb the steps to the Bade Baba shrine, which holds the seated statue of Rishabhanatha, flanked by images of Parshvanatha of the same height. The temple is richly carved, so allow time to look rather than rush.
The complex has dozens of temples, square with domes and pinnacles, so do not try to see every one. Pick the Bade Baba temple, the lake shrine and one or two others. Footwear is removed at shrines, and leather items are usually not allowed inside, so leave belts and wallets in the car.
The Kundalpur Fair, held after Holi in March, draws large crowds. Avoid it for a quiet visit, or go for the atmosphere if you want to see the pilgrimage in full swing.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear
- Leave leather items in the car
- Avoid the fair days unless you want crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes for the steps
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Kundalpur, about 35-40 km north-east of Damoh
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours
- Best time
- October to March, mornings; the fair after Holi is crowded
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The main shrine is reached by steps up the hill. There are also temples at the foot of the hill around the pond, which are easier. Older visitors can do the lower group and the Jal Mandir without the climb.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is free. Reported hours are early morning to evening, but confirm locally. Dress modestly, remove footwear, and follow the rules about leather and photography posted at each shrine.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Kundalpur Jain Temples (Bade Baba)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The main shrine is reached by steps up the hill. There are also temples at the foot of the hill around the pond, which are easier. Older visitors can do the lower group and the Jal Mandir without the climb.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Kundalpur from Damoh?
About 35-40 km north-east.
What is Bade Baba?
A large seated statue of Rishabhanatha, the first Jain Tirthankara.
When is the fair?
In March, starting right after Holi.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
