One of the most sacred places in the area for Jain devotees is the Wayanad Jain Temple. Among the most significant medieval Jain villages in the region is this one in Wayanad. One of Kerala’s earliest Jain temples is this one as well.
The Wayanad Jain Temple is among the most revered locations in the region for followers of Jainism. This Wayanad Jain village is one of the most important medieval Jain settlements in the area. This is also one of the oldest Jain temples in Kerala.
Where is the Jain Temple in Wayanad?
In Sultan Bathery’s verdant hills is the ancient Jain temple known as Wayanad. It’s still worth seeing, even though it’s in ruins. The temple is roughly 25 kilometers from Wayanad on the Bangalore-Calicut Highway.
History of Wayanad Jain Temple
The Wayanad Jain Temple, also known as the Bathery Jain Temple, was built in the 13th century CE when the Vijayanagara Empire ruled. At the height of Jainism in Wayanad, it functioned as both a shrine and a significant Jain center. Then, when the Hindu religion’s Shaivism and Vaishnavism thrived, it developed into a significant hub for their activities.
During the 18th century, the Jain Temple located in Wayanad served as the ammunition depot or battery for Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. Some of his armies were also held in the temple.
Things to do at Jain Temple Wayanad
- Receiving blessings from Mahavir – The Jain community in the area regards the temple as sacrosanct. It is a portion of Kerala’s Jain Circuit. However, there are no idols within. There is a square granite slab with a carving of Mahavir Jain inside the sanctum. The idol is located at Kalpetta’s Ananthanatha Temple. It comes here for adoration on Mahavir Jayanti once a year.
- Admiring the temple architecture: The Vijayanagara architectural style is well reflected in the temple architecture. Its raised platform is supported by heavily carved square pillars that hold up the stone slab roof. You enter the sanctum through the front-facing veranda (Mukha Mandapa), which leads to the inner courtyard (Maha Mandapa). A few tiny statues of Jain Tirthankaras are there.
- Examining the symbolic carvings – The serene Jain Temple Wayanad offers an opportunity to learn about the local cultural legacy. The Indian Archaeological Survey has been working to save the artwork on the building. Numerous carvings may be seen on the entrances and pillars. They have several flower patterns, a swan, and snakes, which are significant Jain symbols.
Jain Temple Wayanad Timings and Entry Fee
The Jain Temple located in Sultan Bathery Wayanad is open daily, all year round. It opens from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, winter, from November to February, is the ideal season to visit the temple. On those days, Wayanad experiences its nicest weather.
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Anyone can enter the Wayanad Jain Temple for free.
How do you reach Jain Temple in Wayanad?
Wayanad is about 25 km away from Bathery Ancient Jain Temple. About two km distant, Sultan Bathery, is the closest bus depot. Kozhikode, 96 kilometers away, is home to the closest train station. Calicut International Airport is the closest airport to the temple, located 105 km away.
Here is how to get to Wayanad’s Jain Temple:
By bus: The temple is located near the Calicut-Bangalore route. Additionally, Wayanad and Sultan Bathery have a lot of buses that can drop you off there.
By taxi or cab: The most practical and comfortable way to go to a Jain temple is by taxi or cab. You may visit this temple and other Wayanad tourist attractions by renting a taxi from one of the best Wayanad car rental companies.
