Mangi Tungi Temple

🕉️ Mangi Tungi Caves – Complete Guide | Timings, History, How to Reach & Best Time to Visit

🌄 Overview

Mangi–Tungi is a sacred twin hill located near Tahrabad, around 125 km from Nashik and about 100 km from Dhule in North Maharashtra. The hills rise sharply with Mangi Peak at 1,324 m and Tungi Peak at 1,331 m above sea level. Known as an important Jain pilgrimage destination, the site is home to ancient caves, temples, historical inscriptions, and the world-famous 108-feet Statue of Ahimsa.

The entire hill complex has thousands of steps leading visitors to various religious spots, stone-carved idols, and viewpoints offering breathtaking natural scenery.

🏛️ History & Importance

Mangi–Tungi holds immense spiritual value, especially among the Jain community. The site is often described as a Siddha Kshetra, meaning a place where many saints are believed to have attained liberation.

Key historical points:

  • The caves are dedicated to different Tirthankaras such as Rishabhanatha, Mahavira, Parshvanatha, and Shantinatha.

  • Several idols found here date back to 595 CE (Vikram Samvat 651), showing the site’s ancient heritage.

  • Many inscriptions in Sanskrit can be seen on rocks and cave walls, though some have faded over time.

  • A huge annual fair takes place during Kartik month (September–October), attracting thousands of devotees.

  • In 2016, the Statue of Ahimsa, a 108-feet monolithic idol of Lord Rishabhdev, was consecrated and officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest Jain statue in the world.

The deep religious history combined with the natural beauty makes Mangi–Tungi a spiritually uplifting and historically rich destination.

🚪 How to Reach

By Road:

Mangi–Tungi is well connected by road.

  • From Nashik: ~125 km

  • From Dhule: ~100 km

  • From Malegaon: ~30 km

Frequent buses and private vehicles are available from nearby towns.

By Train:

Nearest major railway stations:

  • Nashik Road Railway Station

  • Dhule Railway Station

By Air:

Nearest airport:

  • Ozar Airport, Nashik (~110 km)

After reaching the base, visitors must climb approximately 3,500 steps (around 7,000 up & down).

🕒 Timings & Entry Fee

  • Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Statue of Ahimsa Viewing Area: Usually free, sometimes nominal parking charges may apply.

(You may adjust timings if needed based on local updates.)

☀️ Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Mangi–Tungi is:

  • October to February – Pleasant weather for climbing

  • Kartik Festival Period – For cultural & religious experience

  • Early Morning & Late Afternoon – Avoid heat on the steps

Avoid visiting during intense summer afternoons due to steep climbs.

🛕 Major Sections of Mangi–Tungi Hills

🟤 Mangi Giri

Mangi Giri features multiple ancient temples, shrines, and footprints (charans) of saints.
Important highlights include:

  • Seven old temples

  • Krishna Kund – believed to be linked to the final days of Lord Krishna

  • Balbhadra Cave – associated with Balram, elder brother of Lord Krishna

  • Several idols representing Jain monks and deities

This side of the hill is known for its serene environment and ancient carvings.

🟠 Tungi Giri

Tungi Giri has ancient temples and notable caves such as:

  • Chandraprabhu Cave – dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara

  • Ram Chandra Cave

  • Ancient idols of Hanuman, Gava, Neel and other figures

  • A cave where Kritantvakra, the chief army commander of Lord Ram, is depicted in ascetic form

Between the two hills, you will also find:

  • Caves of Shuddha & Buddha Munis

  • A massive idol of Bhagwan Munisuvrat Nath in Padmasana

  • Idols of Lord Bahubali and many other saints

📍 Nearby Attractions

Visitors can also explore:

  • Statue of Ahimsa

  • Tahrabad Village

  • Malegaon City

  • Dhule City

If coming from Nashik, nearby places include:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many steps are there to reach Mangi–Tungi?

There are around 3,500 steps one way (approximately 7,000 up & down).

2. What is Mangi–Tungi famous for?

It is famous for its Jain pilgrimage significance, ancient caves, and the 108-feet Statue of Ahimsa, the tallest Jain idol in the world.

3. Is it difficult to climb?

The climb is steep but well-constructed. Senior citizens may need assistance.

4. Are there food or water facilities?

Basic water and food stalls are available at the base and at some points along the route.

5. What is the best time to visit?

October to February is ideal due to pleasant weather.

6. Is there any entry fee?

Entry to Mangi–Tungi is free.