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Gopachal Jain Parvat: A Hill of Ancient Carvings

Explore ancient Jain artistry at Gopachal Parvat, a hilltop haven of rock-cut sculptures and spiritual serenity near Gwalior Fort.

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Gopachal Jain Parvat, located on the Gwalior Fort's eastern face, is renowned for its ancient Jain rock-cut monuments dating back to the 7th and 15th centuries. The hill features numerous carvings of Tirthankaras, Jain spiritual figures, showcasing the region's rich artistic and religious heritage.

A brief summary to Gopachal Jain Parvat

  • Gwalior, Phool Bagh, Lashkar, Madhya Pradesh, IN

Local tips

  • Visit between October and March for pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the outdoor sculptures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking and climbing involved to see the sculptures.
  • Dress modestly to respect the religious significance of the site.
  • Carry water, especially during the warmer months, to stay hydrated.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

    From Gwalior Junction Railway Station or Raja Bhoj Airport, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Gopachal Parvat, located on the eastern side of Gwalior Fort. The ride from the railway station is approximately 2 km. Expect to pay around ₹100-₹200 for an auto-rickshaw or ₹200-₹300 for a taxi.

  • Walking

    After reaching the Gwalior Fort entrance, you can walk to Gopachal Parvat. The walk involves a climb and takes about 15-20 minutes. There are no specific costs involved in walking, but ensure you wear comfortable shoes.

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Discover more about Gopachal Jain Parvat

Gopachal Parvat, also known as 'Cowherd Mountain,' is a historical site on the eastern face of Gwalior Fort in Madhya Pradesh, India. The site is famed for its collection of Jain rock-cut monuments carved into the hill's rock face between the 7th and 15th centuries. These sculptures depict Tirthankaras, the revered spiritual leaders in Jainism, in various meditative postures. The carvings range from 2 to 14 meters in height, with the most prominent being a 47-foot (14-meter) idol of Parshvanatha, considered the largest Parshvanatha idol in lotus posture. According to Jain traditions, Parshvanatha delivered his spiritual discourse (deshna) on this hill, adding to the site's religious significance. The complex also includes 26 Jain temples, some on the hilltop and others at the base. The monuments predate the Siddhachal Caves, located approximately 2 km north. In 1527, Emperor Babur ordered their defacement and destruction, specifically mentioning the mutilation of the Urvahi Jinas in his memoirs. Centuries later, the Jain community restored statues by adding stucco heads to repair the damage inflicted during Babur's reign. Today, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) actively conserves the site, ensuring that the intricate carvings and statues remain intact for future generations.

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