Jainimedu Jain Temple

Tucked away in the quiet village of Jainimedu on the western outskirts of Palakkad, the Jainimedu Jain Temple stands as a rare and enduring symbol of Kerala’s Jain legacy. This 15th-century granite structure, built by diamond merchants from Karnataka, is one of the few surviving Jain temples in the state. The temple is dedicated to Chandraprabha, the eighth Tirthankara of Jainism, and features intricately carved idols of Jain Tirthankaras and Yakshinis. Known for its fusion of Kerala and Jain architectural styles, the temple offers visitors a peaceful and historically rich spiritual retreat.

A Glimpse into History and Architecture

Measuring 32 feet long and 20 feet wide, the temple showcases an ancient Jain style with distinctly Kerala influences. At its peak during the 17th and 18th centuries, Jainimedu was home to over 400 Jain families. However, the community dwindled after the area was attacked during Tipu Sultan’s invasion, leaving the temple in a fragile state. Despite the decline, Jain traditions were preserved, and a significant renovation took place in 2013, which included a Panch Kalyanak ceremony — an important event in Jain ritual practice. The temple holds a unique place in Kerala’s literary history too: renowned Malayalam poet Kumaranasan is believed to have penned his iconic poem Veenapoovu near its peaceful premises.

Visitor Information

The Jainimedu Jain Temple is located about 6 kilometers from Palakkad town and is easily accessible by road and rail. It remains open to visitors daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Although the temple sees minimal footfall, it continues to be a serene place of worship and cultural interest. Nearby attractions include the historic Palakkad Fort and the scenic Malampuzha Dam, making Jainimedu an enriching stop for history lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

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