The Sacred Hastinapur Jain Tirth

Location of Hastinapur Jain Tirth

The Hastinapur Jain Tirth is located in Hastinapur, Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Situated on the banks of the Ganga canal, this ancient town was once the capital of the Kuru Kingdom. While it is prominent in Hindu epics like the Mahabharata, for Jains, Hastinapur holds deep spiritual significance as a major pilgrimage site attracting thousands of devotees annually for blessings, meditation, and connection with Jain dharma.

Historical Significance of Hastinapur Jain Tirth

Hastinapur is considered one of the holiest sites for Jains due to its association with Tirthankaras and their Kalyanaks (auspicious life events). Here, Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath), the first Tirthankara, is believed to have accepted his first aahar (meal) after renunciation, marking the origin of daan (charity) in Jainism—celebrated to this day during Akshaya Tratiya.

Hastinapur is also the birthplace of three revered Tirthankaras:

• Shantinatha (16th Tirthankara)
• Kunthunatha (17th Tirthankara)
• Aranatha (18th Tirthankara)

The main temple at Hastinapur was first developed in 1801 CE by Raja Harsukh Rai, a devoted Jain minister in the Mughal court. Since then, the tirtha has expanded, attracting pilgrims from across India.

Spiritual Importance of Hastinapur Jain Tirth

Charity (Daan): Symbolized by Bhagwan Rishabhdev’s first meal, reminding devotees that giving is central to spiritual progress.

Renunciation (Tyag): Hastinapur is also where Rishabhdev renounced worldly life, establishing the path of asceticism. Visiting Hastinapur allows devotees to reflect on the values of ahimsa, selflessness, and detachment.

Major Attractions at Hastinapur Jain Tirth

• Digamber Jain Bada Mandir – The main temple with grand idols and stunning architecture.
• Jambu Dweep – A unique structure representing Jain cosmology.
• Kailash Parvat Rachna – A massive white marble symbol of purity and peace.
• Other Jain Temples & Dharamshalas – Spread across the town, providing serene spaces for worship and meditation.

Hidden Fact About Hastinapur Jain Tirth

🔎 Hidden Fact: Hastinapur is believed not only to be the site of Bhagwan Rishabhdev’s first meal but also of his renunciation (diksha). This dual significance makes it a sacred site where the foundational Jain principles of giving and detachment were first demonstrated.

Why Every Jain Should Visit Hastinapur

Visiting Hastinapur is more than a pilgrimage—it is a journey into the origins of Jain dharma. Pilgrims can celebrate Akshaya Tratiya, meditate at the Bada Mandir, or study cosmology at Jambu Dweep, connecting with the eternal teachings of Jainism and receiving blessings and spiritual insight.

Dharamshala

Shraddha Sadan Dharamshala (Hastinapur)
Amenities: Offers two-bed AC and non-AC rooms, parking, CCTV cameras, hot water, and clean drinking water.
Best for: Family stays.
Booking: You can contact YatraDham.Org for booking.
Check-in/Check-out: 24 hours.

Other Options:
Shree Mukta Jivan Swamibapa Dharamshala: A dharamshala located in or near Hastinapur.
Seth Meghji Thobhan Jain Dharamshala: Another dharamshala in the Hastinapur area.
Maheshwari Dharmashala: A dharamshala found in the vicinity of the city.