The short answer
Bijolia Parshvanath Jain Temple: what visitors should know first
Visit if you are interested in Jain pilgrimage or early medieval inscriptions. It is calm, mostly level and combines well with the Shiva temples nearby. Dress modestly, ask about photography and leather rules, and expect basic facilities.
History and context
The story behind Bijolia Parshvanath Jain Temple
According to Wikipedia, five Jain temples were built in 1160 CE by Mahajan Lala during the reign of the Chahamana king Someshvara, and two rock inscriptions are dated V.S. 1226 (1170 CE). Jain tradition says the poem Uttama Sikhara Purana was composed at this place.
Sources differ on the exact dates of the foundation and the discovery of the image, so treat any single year with care.
Useful facts
Bijolia Parshvanath Jain Temple facts at a glance
- Location
- Bijolia, Bhilwara district, Rajasthan
- Faith
- Jainism (Digambar)
- Deity/dedication
- Parshvanatha
- Visitor note
- Modest dress; ask about leather and photography
- Built
- 12th century
- Protection
- Inscription protected by the ASI
Why it matters
Why Bijolia Parshvanath Jain Temple is worth your time
Bijolia's Jain complex is a pilgrimage site with deep local devotion and a place in the region's documented history. The rock inscription, dated V.S. 1226 (1170 CE), is considered important for the early history of the Chahamana dynasty, and it is a Monument of National Importance.
Tradition holds that a merchant from Ujjain found an ancient Parshvanatha image here after a dream, and that the temples were built soon after. Seeing the Jain and Shaiva sites together shows how the two traditions shared Bijolia over the centuries.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The inscriptions
Two rock inscriptions dated 1170 CE record Chahamana history and a Jain poem.
- 02
Panchayatana plan
A principal shrine is surrounded by four subsidiary shrines.
- 03
The kund
A water reservoir forms part of the complex.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The complex is run by a Digambar Jain committee and centres on temples dedicated to Parshvanatha, set around a kund, or water reservoir. The historic group follows a panchayatana plan, with a main shrine and four subsidiary shrines, and the main temple includes a small model of a temple.
Look for the rock inscriptions, which are carved on a stone near the temple doorway and in the compound. One records the Chahamana genealogy and the coronation of Someshvara, and the other is linked to the Jain poem Uttama Sikhara Purana. You do not need to read them to appreciate the age of the stone.
Come in the morning, when the complex is quiet. Visitors are welcomed, but respect the worship: speak softly, follow the staff's guidance and ask before taking photographs.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Dress modestly and remove footwear
- Ask at the gate about photography and leather
- Go in the morning
- Carry water
- Pair with the Bijolia temple group
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Bijolia, about 1.5-2 km southeast of the town, Bhilwara district
- Time needed
- 45-60 minutes
- Best time
- Morning, October to March
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The compound is largely level with a few steps. Seating is limited, so rest in the shade. Quiet outside festival days.
- Tickets and access
- Free entry to the pilgrimage complex. Dress modestly and remove footwear. Leather items and photography are often restricted in Jain temples, so ask at the gate.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bijolia Parshvanath 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 compound is largely level with a few steps. Seating is limited, so rest in the shade. Quiet outside festival days.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is entry free?
Yes, access to the pilgrimage complex is generally free; offerings are voluntary.
What is the inscription about?
One records the Chahamana genealogy and the coronation of King Someshvara, and the other is linked to a Jain poem.
Is it far from the Shiva temples?
The complex lies about 1.5-2 km southeast of the town, so it is a short drive from the Mandakini group.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.