Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir

Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir is the best-known and the most ancient Jain temple in Delhi. Located in the Chandni Chowk area, in the vicinity of Red Fort, the striking building is made entirely out of red sandstone. Originally built in 1658, the temple underwent major modifications and alterations in the later years. Popularly known as Lal Mandir aka ‘Red Temple’, the temple is dedicated to 23rd Jain Tirthankara- Parshvanath. Besides the huge statue of Parshvanath, the temple also houses idols of Rishabhdev, Lord Mahavir and several other deities; the main devotional area is however present on the first floor.

The shrine is famous in the city because of the massive avian veterinary hospital behind the main temple complex which is called Jain Birds Hospital. Inspired by Vardhman Mahavir’s message ‘live and let live’, the centre comprises of general wards and ICU and tends to birds and avian patients that need utmost care. Situated adjacent to the most chaotic area of Delhi, the temple is mostly popular for its striking architecture, beautiful carvings, pure gold artwork and frescos. Paryushan, Samvatsari, Jnaan Panchami and Deepawali are the major festivals celebrated at the temple and we recommend you to visit at the same time to be a part of the elaborate festivities.

History of the Temple
The temple was originally built in the year of 1658 and it was later enlarged and renovated in the early nineteenth century. It is said that a temporary structure to house a Jain temple was being permitted to be built during the Mughal period. The main deity was of Tirthankara Parshva. The temple then consisted of three marble idols that were kept under the supervision of a Jain officer who belonged to the Mughal Army.

Architecture of the Temple
he temple is build-up of impressive red sand stone. It consists of a Manastambha column right in the front; a small courtyard that is being surrounded by a colonnade and the main devotional area on the first floor. In this temple there are a number of deities, the main deity is of Lord Mahavira who is considered to be the last Jain Tirthankara. This temple also contains the statue of Rishabhanatha, who is known to be the first Tirthankara, and that of Lord Parshvanath. It is a very peaceful and serene place for offering prayers. The temple is composed of detailed carvings and paintworks in the ante chambers. Devotees from across the world come for praying and offering fruits, grains, rice as well as candles. These lighted candles and the glazed paintwork create a serene atmosphere inside the temple premises. There is also a bookstore situated inside the temple complex that contains books related to the Jain culture and religion from all over the world.

Best Time To Visit Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
The ideal time to visit the temple is during the festivals of Paryushan, Samvatsari, Jnaan Panchami and Deepawali when the celebrations at the shrine are in full swing.

How To Reach Sri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir
The nearest metro station to the Digambar Jain temple is Chandni Chowk Metro, situated on the red line. The temple is just about 1.5 kms from the metro; you can hire a local or a battery run rickshaw. You can also choose to travel in the DTC state buses which ply regularly on this route.