Kulpak Tirth - Andhra Pradesh

Address : Shree Swetambar Jain Tirth - Kulpak, Aler, Nalgonda, Andhra Pradesh
Tele : 91-8685-81696

It is an important pilgrimage centre of Swetambar Jains in South India about 80 Kms from Hyderabad. The main deity of this temple is Lord Rishabdev (also known as Manakiya Swami in South India) flanked by idols of Lord Mahaveera and Lord Neminath. There are other eight ancient idols of various Tirthankars on both the sides of the main temple and two new idols of Shri Punadarik Swami and of Shri Gautam Swami are also installed. The statue of Lord Mahaveera is unusual. It is 52" inches tall and said to be of single piece of turquoise. The proportions, facial expression and posture in ardhpadmasana mudra is carved in an unique fashion. Two new idols of Lord Simandar Swami & Mata Padmavati are also installed on either side of the main Temple. In the compound there is another small temple of Chaumukhi Lord Shantinath and also there is a Dadawadi which is being renovated.

According to tradition, the temple is said to be about 2000 years old. Historically the earliest reference of the existence of the temple as recorded by the monks who visited the temple is of 7th century. It has passed through various vicissitudes being renovated from time to time. The last recorded renovations are 1708 A. D. and 1917 A. D. The latest renovation was done on 26th Jan. 1996.

For convenience of Jain pilgrims visiting the temple there are Dharamsalas. One is old and other newly constructed. Both are well equipped. There is also a Dinning hall for the Jain pilgrims where Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is served between sunrise and sunset.

It is 80 Kms from Hyderabad on Hyderabad-Warangal Highway. The nearest airport is Hyderabad. Taxis are available from Hyderabad. Trains and Buses halt at Aler from there Tonga and Autorickshaws are available to go to the temple which is 7 Kms away.

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Mail to : Ahimsa Foundation
www.jainsamaj.org
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