Weather: 10°C - 24°C
Tags: Temple, Spirituality, Jainism
Timings: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 1 - 2 Hours
Overview of Kanch ka Mandir (Jain Glass Temple), Kanpur:
Kanch ka Mandir, or the Jain Glass Temple, is a captivating religious site located in Maheshwari Mohal, Kanpur. This temple, constructed entirely of glass, is dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara, and houses depictions of the other 23 Tirthankaras as well. The temple’s delicate glasswork and intricate carvings make it a unique architectural marvel, attracting devotees and visitors alike.
The temple is renowned for its stunning use of glass in its construction, with glass panels, walls, ceilings, and floors meticulously crafted to create a shimmering, divine atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find handcrafted statues of the Jain Tirthankaras, along with decorative glass murals that beautifully illustrate important aspects of Jain history and traditions. The serene garden adjacent to the temple is adorned with sculptures of Jain deities, further adding to the tranquility of the place.
Kanch ka Mandir is not only a spiritual hub for Jain followers but also a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the art, history, and architectural beauty of Jainism. Its peaceful ambiance, combined with the exquisite design, offers a truly divine experience.
Architecture of Kanch ka Mandir:
The temple’s architecture is a work of art, designed entirely from glassware. From the walls, ceilings, pillars, and floors to the doors and panels, every inch of the temple showcases intricate carvings, mirror work, and delicate patterns. The unique glass structure adds an ethereal glow to the temple, giving it a luminous, almost otherworldly feel.
Inside the temple, you'll find life-size idols of Lord Mahavira and his disciples, surrounded by beautiful paintings and carvings depicting the lives of Jain saints. The design of the temple incorporates strategically placed seating areas where devotees can sit and read the ancient Jain scriptures available in the temple. The marble floors and elegant ceilings complete the temple’s regal look, highlighting the life and teachings of the Jain deities.
Tips for Visitors:
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, or revealing clothing as a mark of respect.
- Before entering the temple, visitors must remove their shoes.
- Parking space near the temple is limited, so it’s recommended to use public transport or a private taxi if possible.
- Donations are accepted only from Jain followers.
How to Reach Kanch ka Mandir (Jain Glass Temple):
Kanch ka Mandir is easily accessible by various modes of transport and is located at General Ganj in Kanpur.
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By Road: The temple is approximately 4 km from the Kanpur city center, and you can reach it by a 15-minute drive. It’s well-connected by roads, making it convenient to travel by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or personal vehicle.
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By Train: The Kanpur Railway Station is located just 1.5 to 3.5 km from the temple. It can be reached in 12 minutes by car or a 20 to 25-minute walk. The Kanpur Interstate Bus Station is also nearby, about 2.9 to 3.8 km away, which can be covered by a 12 to 15-minute drive.
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By Air: The Kanpur Airport is 11 km from the temple. You can reach the temple by a 20 to 30-minute drive from the airport.