Shri Nagahad Teerth located in Rajasthan is a Jain pilgrimage centre. The teerth kshetra is situated in on the bank of the Vaghela Lake in the forest. It is at a distance of one and a half kilometers from Eklingji. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shantinath, the sixteenth Jain Tirthankara.
History of Shri Nagahad Teerth
According to history Shri Nagahad Teerth dates back to the ancient times. Earlier the name of the teerth was Nagahurud. Formerly it served as the capital of Mewar. This teerth is regarded as one of the group of five teerths of Mewar. It was once a very rich and prosperous city. There were once almost 350 temples located here. However, presently one temple can be seen here. As per an inscription found in this temple of Lord Parshvanatha, it was constructed during the time of King Samprati. According to another inscription a well versed Acharya, Samudrasurishvarji had once won a contest of interpreting scriptures. This helped the sangha to get the ownership of the temple in the fifth century of the Vikram Samvat Era. Another inscription has also been found which states that the image of the lord was installed here on the eleventh day of the month of Magha in the year 1494 of the Vikram Samvat Era. It is said that the evening bells of the temple could be heard from a distance. The idol of Lord Shantinath 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 Nagahad Teerth
The temple of Shri Nagahad Teerth houses the idol of Lord Shantinath. 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. Even the ceilings of the temple have been are adorned with splendid sculptural designs. The idol of the Lord is 270 cm in height and is black 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. Apart from this there are two other temple here that are in ruined state. There are no idols installed in them.
The Temple of Sri Nagahad Teerth organizes 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 Upashrays, an Ayambilshala and a Jnanabhandar. The teerth is situated amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The temple is enclosed by scenic beauty that mesmerizes 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 railway station is located at Udaipur that is 40 kilometers away from the temple.