Shri Kundalpur Teerth located in Bihar is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The teerth khetra is situated in the Kundalpur village at a distance of 3 kilometers from Nalanda. The temple is dedicated to Ganadhar Gautam Swami.
History of Shri Kundalpur Teerth
Shri Kundalpur Teerth, according to history, dates back to the ancient times. In ancient times, Nalanda and Kundalpur were suburbs of Rajgiri. Indrabhuti, Agnibhuti and Vayubhuti were among Ganadhars of Lord Mahavira. They were three brothers who were born at this place. It is said that Lord Mahavira met Goshalak here. As per the lists of ancient teerth, there were earlier many temples here. It was once a rich and prosperous place and was resided by many people. Nalanda was a great center Buddhist studies. There was also a University here. This was the birth location of three of the eleven of Gandhars of Lord Mahavira. Lord Maghavira had visited this place several times and preached holy sermons to the people who came to visit him. Thus the teerth kshetra is regarded as very holy. The idol of Ganadhar Gautam Swami is believed to possess miraculous powers and is visited by thousands of Jains and non Jains from far off places. They come here to offer their prayers to the Lord and receive his blessings. It is believed that if prayed with all devotion the Lord fulfils the wishes of the pilgrims.
Temple of Shri Kundalpur Teerth
The temple of Shri Kundalpur Teerth housing the idol of Ganadhar Gautam Swami has been brilliantly decorated with intricate artistic designs that enhance the look of the temple. The creative works of the craftsmen depicts their skills. The walls and pillars of the temple are adorned with specimens of ancient art and paintings. The idol of the Lord is 25 cms in height and is black in colour. It is seated in a padmasana posture. The idol has been carved out of a single stone and looks stunning. The divine face of the Lord looks very calm and serene. Apart from the main temple there is another Diganbara temple located here.
The Temple of Shri Kundalpur Teerth organizes many annual gatherings and functions that are celebrated with much enthusiasm. There are provisions for dharamshalas or rest houses for the pilgrims that are well equipped with all modern facilities. There are also facilities for Upashrays, Ayambilshala and Jnanabhandar for the pilgrims. The teerth being situated amidst beautiful natural surroundings of the village attracts many pilgrims. The surrounding greenery and the beauty of the teerth mesmerize and fascinate the pilgrims. The calm and tranquil village environment makes it a perfect place for religious activities and also for meditation. The kshetra is well connected to road, rail and air. Taxi services and bus services are easily available here. The nearest railway station is located at Nalanda at a distance of 3 kilometres. Rajgruhi is at a distance of 9 kilometers and Pavapuri is at a distance of 21 kilometers from the temple.