Shri Pudal Teerth located in Tamil Nadu is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The teerth kshetra is situated on the Red Hill in the Pudal village at a distance of 15 kilometers from Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the twenty-third Jain Tirthankara.

History of Shri Pudal Teerth
According to history of Shri Pudal Teerth dates back to the ancient times. The teerth kshetra is believed to more than 2500 years old. The place earlier served as the chief capital of Jain kings. The idol of the Lord Parshvanatha is very impressive in appearance like the Kesariyanath. The place is thus known as Kesarvadi. As per reference the temple was constructed by the rulers of the Chowl dynasty. The teerth place is regarded to be sacred as it had been the place of meditation, penance and several literary activities of Swami Rikhavadashiji. He is also credited with repairing and renovating the temple. The idol of Lord Parshvanatha is believed to possess miraculous powers. Devotees from far off places visit the temple to offer their prayers. It is said that if the Lord is worshipped with full devotion it fulfils the desires of the pilgrims.

Temple of Shri Pudal Teerth
The temple of Shri Pudal Teerth houses the idol of Lord Parshvanatha. The shrine has been beautifully decorated with attractive intricate designs. It reflects the artistic and creative skills of the craftsmen of the ancient period. The idol of the Lord is almost 120 cm in height and is black in colour. It is seated in a padmasana posture and is installed on the upper storey of the temple. 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. It is flaunted by three umbrellas, an Ashok tree, the bhamandal and others. Another ancient idol of Padmavati Devi here is also very attractive and said to have miraculous powers. Apart from the main temple there is another beautiful Jain temple located in the same compound. It houses the deity of Shankeshvar Parshvanatha that is installed in the upper storey of the temple. The temple is made of marble and the attractive pinnacles adorn the beauty of the temple.

The Temple of Shri Pudal 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. Other than this there are also an ayambilshala and an upashray. The temple is enclosed by scenic beauty that mesmerises and fascinates the pilgrims. The temple is bordered by large lakes that supply drinking water to the city. In the vicinity of the temple there are small and big hillocks of red earth which are known as red hills. Thus 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 railway station of Chennai is at a distance of 15 kilometers from here.