Pareshnath Jain Temple

Pareshnath Jain Temple is a renowned Jain temple complex located in Gouribari, Belgachia, North Kolkata, West Bengal. Built in 1867 by Rai Badridas Bahadur, it is dedicated to Parasnath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, with the main shrine dedicated to Shitalnath, the 10th Tirthankara. The complex comprises four temples known for ornate architecture, mirror-work, stained glass and landscaped gardens, making it a significant religious and tourist attraction in Kolkata.

Visitors can expect a temple complex with four ornate Jain temples set within landscaped gardens featuring fountains, ponds, and European-style statues. The main Shitalnath temple displays intricate mirror work, colored glass mosaics, chandeliers and detailed marble carvings. Visitors can walk through garden pathways, view the outer temple architecture, and observe prayer areas. The surroundings are urban residential with a peaceful enclosed compound offering a quiet contrast to the city outside.

The temple complex was built in 1867 by Rai Badridas Bahadur, a wealthy Jain merchant and philanthropist. The main temple is dedicated to Shitalnath, the 10th Jain Tirthankara, while the complex is popularly associated with Parasnath, the 23rd Tirthankara. It represents 19th-century Jain temple architecture in Bengal with influences of North Indian and European decorative styles.

An important Jain religious site in eastern India, the temple is a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Jain community and a cultural landmark in Kolkata. It reflects Jain traditions of non-violence and reverence for Tirthankaras and is noted for its artistic heritage, attracting devotees and visitors interested in religious architecture and cultural history.