Hutheesing Jain Temple is one of the most significant Jain temples in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and a well-known symbol of Jain heritage in western India. The temple takes its name from its founder, wealthy Jain merchant Seth Hathee Singh (Hathisinh Kesarisinh).
Built predominantly in white marble, Hutheesing Jain Temple is dedicated to Shri Dharmanatha, the 15th Tirthankara of Jainism. It has been regarded as a sacred derasar by the Jain community for close to 180 years, and continues to draw pilgrims, architecture lovers, and heritage travellers from across India.
Quick Facts
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Also Known As |
Hathisingh Jain Temple, Hathee Singh Jain Mandir, Hatheesingh Jain Derasar |
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Built |
Construction began 1848; completed by the early 1850s |
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Founder |
Seth Hathisinh Kesarisinh (Hathee Singh) |
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Completed By |
Shethani Harkunvar (wife) and Maganbhai Hutheesing (son) |
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Dedicated To |
Shri Dharmanatha, 15th Tirthankara of Jainism |
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Architecture Style |
Maru-Gurjara (Solanki), blended with haveli elements |
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Primary Material |
Predominantly white marble |
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Location |
Near Delhi Darwaza, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad |
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Entry Fee |
Free (donations optional) |
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Typical Timings |
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily (may vary on festivals) |
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Ideal Visit Duration |
30–45 minutes |
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Nearest Railway Station |
Ahmedabad Junction (Kalupur) – approx. 3–4 km |
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Nearest Airport |
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport – approx. 10 km |
Significance of Hutheesing Jain Temple
Hutheesing Jain Temple is best known for its Maru-Gurjara marble architecture and its role as a major 19th-century Jain devotional project in Ahmedabad. It stands today as one of the city’s most visited heritage sites and an active centre of Jain worship.
Temple Location
Hutheesing Jain Temple is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, near the historic Delhi Darwaza (Delhi Gate) on Shahibaug Road. It sits in one of the oldest, most heritage-rich stretches of the old city, a short ride from most central Ahmedabad hotels.
History of Hutheesing Jain Temple
Construction of Hutheesing Jain Temple began in 1848 AD, commissioned by Seth Hathisinh Kesarisinh, popularly known as Hathee Singh — one of Ahmedabad’s wealthiest Jain traders. He passed away at the young age of 49 before the temple could be finished.
The work was carried forward by his wife, Shethani Harkunvar, along with their son, Maganbhai Hutheesing. Sources vary slightly on the exact completion date, with most placing it in the early 1850s.
Local historical accounts suggest the project also provided employment to hundreds of skilled artisans, largely from the Sompura and Salat communities, during a period of economic hardship in Gujarat. Master craftsman Premchand Salat is widely credited as the temple’s chief architect, and total construction cost is estimated between 8 and 10 lakh rupees — an enormous expenditure for its time.
Architecture of Hutheesing Jain Temple
Hutheesing Jain Temple is built predominantly using finely carved white marble, in the Maru-Gurjara (Solanki) style blended with elements of the traditional Gujarati haveli. The main temple is double-storeyed and enshrines a marble statue of Lord Dharmanatha in its principal sanctum.
According to most historical accounts, several other deity idols are enshrined across the basement and adjoining bay sanctuaries, though exact counts vary between sources. A tall Manastambha (column of honour), modelled on the tower at Chittorgarh, stands in front of the main structure.
What to See Inside Hutheesing Jain Temple
- The double-storeyed main shrine with the marble idol of Lord Dharmanatha
- Richly carved pillars supporting the temple dome
- 52 subsidiary shrines, each with a Tirthankara image
- Ornate haveli-style entrance porch with jharokhas and stone jalis
- The Manastambha tower in the courtyard
Hutheesing Jain Temple Timings and Entry Fee
Hutheesing Jain Temple is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Timings can vary on religious occasions, so it’s worth confirming locally on the day of your visit.
Entry is completely free, and general darshan does not require a ticket. Voluntary donations to the temple trust are welcome.
Temple Rules and Dress Code
As an active place of Jain worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove footwear before entering (racks are provided outside). Silence and a respectful demeanour are expected near the sanctum.
Photography inside the main shrine is generally not permitted, though it’s usually allowed in the outer courtyard. People of all faiths are welcome, provided they respect Jain customs.
Festivals at Hutheesing Jain Temple
The temple sees larger crowds during major Jain festivals such as Mahavir Jayanti and Paryushan. If you prefer a quieter visit, weekday mornings outside festival dates are the best option.
How to Reach Hutheesing Jain Temple
By Air
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is approximately 10 km away (distance can vary by route), with frequent flights connecting major Indian cities.
By Rail
Ahmedabad Junction (Kalupur) railway station is roughly 3–4 km from the temple, with autos and cabs available for the last stretch.
By Road
Ahmedabad is well connected by private and public buses from across Gujarat. Local autos, cabs, and AMTS buses run directly to the Delhi Darwaza–Shahibaug area.
Best Time to Visit Hutheesing Jain Temple
October to March is the best time to visit Hutheesing Jain Temple, when Ahmedabad’s winter weather stays cool, dry, and pleasant. Avoid April to June, when daytime heat turns extremely hot, and use some caution during the humid monsoon months of June to August.
Places to Visit Near Hutheesing Jain Temple
- Sidi Saiyyed Mosque — famous for its carved stone jali windows
- Sabarmati Ashram — Mahatma Gandhi’s former residence on the riverfront
- Jama Masjid — a historic mosque in the old city
- Kankaria Lake — popular for an evening walk
- Calico Museum of Textiles — a well-known textile heritage museum
How Much Time Do You Need
Most travellers spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring Hutheesing Jain Temple. Heritage and architecture enthusiasts may want to stay a little longer to study the carvings and courtyard closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who built Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Seth Hathisinh Kesarisinh (Hathee Singh) commissioned it; his wife Harkunvar and son Maganbhai completed it after his death.
Q: When was Hutheesing Jain Temple built?
A: Construction began in 1848 and was completed by the early 1850s.
Q: Which Tirthankara is Hutheesing Jain Temple dedicated to?
A: Shri Dharmanatha, the 15th Tirthankara of Jainism.
Q: What is Hutheesing Jain Temple famous for?
A: Its Maru-Gurjara marble architecture and intricate carvings.
Q: What is the entry fee for Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Entry and darshan are free; donations are optional.
Q: What are the visiting timings of Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: 8:00 AM–1:00 PM and 2:00 PM–7:00 PM daily, though timings may vary on festivals.
Q: Is photography allowed inside Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Not inside the main shrine; usually allowed in the outer courtyard.
Q: What is the best time to visit Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: October to March, for cool and pleasant weather.
Q: How far is Hutheesing Jain Temple from Ahmedabad airport?
A: About 10 km, depending on the route.
Q: How do I reach Hutheesing Jain Temple from the railway station?
A: Ahmedabad Junction is roughly 3–4 km away; autos and cabs cover the rest.
Q: What architectural style does Hutheesing Jain Temple follow?
A: Maru-Gurjara (Solanki) style with Gujarati haveli elements.
Q: Is there a dress code at Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Yes — modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
Q: Can non-Jains visit Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Yes, all faiths are welcome with respect for temple customs.
Q: What are the nearby places to visit near Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Sabarmati Ashram, Jama Masjid, Kankaria Lake, and Calico Museum.
Q: How much time is needed to visit Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Around 30 to 45 minutes for most visitors.
Q: What is the significance of Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: It reflects 19th-century Jain devotion, philanthropy, and Maru-Gurjara craftsmanship.
Q: Which festivals are celebrated at Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Mahavir Jayanti and Paryushan see the largest gatherings.
Q: Is Hutheesing Jain Temple suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, though children should be prepared for quiet, no-photography shrine areas.
Q: Is parking available near Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: Limited roadside parking is available near the temple.
Q: Are guides available at Hutheesing Jain Temple?
A: No official guides are stationed on-site, but local guides can be arranged nearby.
Conclusion
Close to 180 years after it was built, Hutheesing Jain Temple in Ahmedabad remains one of Gujarat’s finest examples of Jain temple architecture. Whether you’re drawn by its marble carvings, its Maru-Gurjara design, or its history of devotion, a visit to this historic shrine is well worth adding to any Gujarat itinerary.
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