Shri Ravana Parshvanatha Teerth located in Rajasthan is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The teerth kshetra is situated in Birbal Mohlla in Alwar city. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the twenty-fourth Jain Tirthankara.
History of Shri Raavan Parshvanatha Teerth
According to history Shri Ravana Parshvanatha Teerth dates back to the ancient times. As per reference it is said that King Ravana of Ramayana was going to some place with his wife Mandodari. Ravana had taken the vow of worshipping Lord Parshvanatha before eating his food. However, he had forgotten to carry the idol of the Lord. Thus his wife Mandodari immediately prepared an idol out of sand of the Lord. The king finally could worship the Lord and take his food. It is for this reason that the teerth is named as Ravana Parshvanatha. The temple was repaired and renovated in 1645 of the Vikram Samvat Era. The present temple has been built in 1983 of Vikram Savant Era. The idol of Lord Parshvanatha is believed to possess miraculous powers. Thousands of Jains and non Jains from far off places visit the temple to offer their prayers. It is believed that if prayed with all devotion the Lord fulfils the wishes of the pilgrims.
Temple of Shri Ravana Parshvanatha Teerth
The temple of Shri Ravana Parshvanatha Teerth houses the idol of Lord Parshvanatha. The temple located in a small compound has been magnificently decorated with intricate artistic designs. The creative temple work boast about the skills of the craftsmen. The walls and pillars of the temple are adorned with specimens of ancient art and paintings. The idol of the Lord is 35 cm in height and is black in colour. It is seated in a padmasana posture. The idol has been beautifully carved from a single stone and looks very appealing. The smiling face of the Lord looks very calm and serene. Apart from the main temple there is one more beautiful Jain temple located here. A Dadawadi can also be seen in Alwar.
The Temple of Shri Ravana Parshvanatha Teerth organises many annual gatherings and functions. There are provisions for dharamshalas or rest houses for the pilgrims. These are well equipped with all modern facilities. Apart from this there are Upashrays, an Ayambilshala and a Jnanabhandar. The teerth is situated amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Being located on the hill the temple is enclosed by scenic beauty that mesmerises and fascinates the pilgrims. The calm and tranquil environment and the surrounding greenery make it a suitable place for religious activities. The kshetra is well connected to road, rail and air. Taxi services and bus services are easily available here. The nearest bus stop and railway station is located in Alwar. The nearest airport is located in Jaipur at a distance of 151 kms.