Shri Kirtidham Teerth located in Gujarat is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The Jain teerth kshetra is situated on the highway from Songadh to Palitana. The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Rishabh Dev, the first Jain tirthankara.
History of Shri Kirtidham Teerth
As per the historical records Shri Kavi Teerth dates back to the ancient times. This temple was erected by a great donor in memory of his son, Kirti. It was formally installed on the sixth day of the dark half of the month of Magasar in the year 2021 of the Vikram Samvat Era i.e. on December 14, 1984 by His Holiness Acharyadev Chandrodaysurisvraji. Here the idol of Bhagwan Rishabh Dev is believed to possess miraculous powers and are 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 Kirtidham Teerth
The temple of Shri Kirtidham Teerth housing the idols of Bhagwan Rishabh Dev 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. The idol of the Lord is white in colour and is seated in padmasana posture. The idol has been beautifully carved from a single stone and looks very beautiful. The smiling face of the Lord looks very calm and serene. Apart from the main idol there are idols of Lord Neminath, Lord Parshvanatha, Lord Mahavira, Goddess Padmavati, Goddess Chakeswari, and Guru Gautam Swami.
The Temple of Shri Kirtidham 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. The temple is surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings. There is also a beautiful garden located here. 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. 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 Songadh on the high way to Palitana, at a distance of 16 kilometres.