Kolanupaka: A Matter of Faith

This town, the second capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas during the 11th century, boasts of an ancient temple decorated with beautiful images of the Jain Tirthankaras, besides a 5-ft-high statue of Lord Mahavira carved out of green jade. The temple also holds a marble Gomukha Yaksha riding an elephant. Hydera bad’s Jain community visit this temple in droves on weekends.

This region, though rich in Buddhist heritage, was never considered to be a stronghold of Jainism and hence a prominent Jain temple at Kolanupaka, in the middle of a Vaishnava stronghold, appears as quite as a surprise. The temple was renovated in the recent past by deploying over 150 artisans from the states of Gujarat as well as Rajasthan.

Jain temple, Kolanupaka

Manju Latha

When to go October to March, when the weather is pleasant Location 78 km NE of Hyderabad Air Nearest airport: Hyderabad Rail Nearest rail: Aler