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Gaon Mandir, Pawapuri

The 19th-Century Jain Shrine by the Jal Mandir

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Overview

Gaon Mandir is a serene Jain temple perched on the western bank of the Jal Mandir pond in Pawapuri. Constructed in the mid-19th century, it honors Lord Parshvanatha and serves as the main village shrine for local Jain devotees.

Learn more about Pawapuri on our Pawapuri page or explore other Buddhist & Jain Circuits.

Historical Significance

  • 1852 CE: Built by the local Sarvoday Jain Trust on village land.
  • 1911 CE: Renovated under Acharya Rajendrasuri’s guidance.
  • 1950s: Marble facades added during centennial celebrations.
  • 2000s: Conservation by Bihar State Heritage Society.
Front view of Gaon Mandir

Architectural Features

Gaon Mandir blends colonial-era symmetry with traditional Jain motifs. A central marble shikhara rises above an open pillared mandapa, and a carved torana (gateway arch) marks the entrance from the village road.

  • White marble shikhara topped by a kalasha finial
  • Intricately carved torana with lotus and vine patterns
  • Pillared mandapa supporting a gilded ceiling canopy
  • Sanctum housing a polished black stone murti of Parshvanatha
Devotees at Gaon Mandir

Spiritual Importance

Pilgrims come to Gaon Mandir to perform daily puja and retreat into the tranquil courtyard. During Paryushan (Aug–Sept), special chanting and almsgiving ceremonies draw hundreds of devotees.

Daily Abhisheka

Morning anointing of the idol with sandalwood paste, considered highly auspicious.

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Paryushan Celebrations

Eight days of fasting, prayer, and scriptural discourses each monsoon.

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Samvatsari Pratikraman

Yearly repentance ritual for forgiveness, held at sunset on the last day of Paryushan.

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Visiting Information

Opening Hours

05:30 AM – 07:30 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

Monsoon Season (Aug–Sept)

How to Reach

  • By Air: Patna Airport (110 km)
  • By Train: Rajgir Station (18 km)
  • By Road: Regular buses/taxis from Rajgir or Nalanda

Travel Tips

  • Wear simple, modest attire suitable for Jain temples.
  • Remove footwear before entering the mandapa.
  • Carry bottled water; there’s no shop inside the complex.
  • Combine your visit with the nearby Jal Mandir for best experience.

Nearby Attractions

Jal Mandir
Jal Mandir

The iconic “Water Temple” built over Lord Mahavira’s cremation site.

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Rajgir
Rajgir

Ancient city of Buddha and Mahavira, with hot springs and ropeway.

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Nalanda
Nalanda

Ruins of the ancient university—UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Pawapuri Regency

Comfortable rooms with garden views, 500 m from Gaon Mandir.

Jain Bhawan

Simple dormitory-style lodging run by the local sangh.

Lassi Café & Sweets

Popular for sweet lassi, snacks, and thalis near the shrine.

Testimonials

Sunil Jain

“A tranquil spot away from the crowds—perfect for meditation.”

— Sunil Jain
Meenakshi Agarwal

“The marble shikhara glows beautifully at sunrise.”

— Meenakshi Agarwal
Rohit Verma

“Combining Gaon Mandir with Jal Mandir made for a perfect spiritual day.”

— Rohit Verma

FAQs

Yes—everyone is welcome, but shoes must be removed and cameras left outside.

Photography is permitted in the courtyard but prohibited inside the sanctum.

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