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History of Shri Jaisalmer Teerth According to history Shri Jaisalmer Teerth dates back to the ancient times. Earlier the town was resided by many wealthy Jain Saravakas. The architecture makes the tourists and pilgrims visiting this teerth kshetra spell-bound. These are the speciality of the Jain architectures of Jaisalmer. Most of the architecture has been done on yellow stone. As per reference the idol of the Lord had fallen on the second day of the bright half of Phalguna in 1263 of the Vikram Samvat Era. It was thus shifted and ceremoniously re-installed in the temple. The idol has been again installed in V.S. 1459 and 1473, as well. 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 Jaisalmer Teerth The temple of Shri Jaisalmer Teerth houses the idol of Lord Chintamani Parshvanatha. The Swetambara temple 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. There are two pillars At the entrance door of the temple. These are adorned with hundreds of art-pieces that look spectacular. Other than these there are inner apartments, Gudhamandapas, festival pandals and Bhamati in which there are Shrungara chowkis of 51 shrines. The exceptional and imposing idols of this period are believed to be earlier that the 14th century. The idol of Lord Parshvanatha is 150 cm in height and is white 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. The city of Jaisalmer has been famous for its architectural beauty. There are about seven thousand Jina idols over here. Other than these there are seven libraries that are said to possess rare palm-leaf manuscripts. The Temple of Shri Jaisalmer 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 eighteen Upashrays, an Ayambilshala and a Jnanabhandar. The teertha is situated amidst beautiful natural surroundings. 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 is located at Jaisalmer. The nearest railway station and airport is located at Jodhpur. |
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