Parshwanath Jain Temple
Shikharji, located on the scenic Parasnath Hill (the highest peak in Jharkhand), is the most sacred pilgrimage site (Tirthakshetra) for the Jain community, particularly the Digambara and Shwetambara sects. The site is named after Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, who attained liberation (Moksha) here in the 8th century BCE. The profound significance of this place lies in the belief that 20 out of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras attained salvation (Nirvana) on this very hill, making it the most revered site in Jainism. The pilgrimage involves a strenuous, approximately 27 km trek (Parikrama) around the main hill from the base town of Madhuban, with shrines (Tonks) dedicated to each of the Tirthankaras dotted along the path. The main temple is often referred to as Shri Sammed Shikharji. The entire journey is a deeply spiritual and physically challenging endeavor, symbolizing the ascetic life path in Jainism.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 Days (Including the main Parikrama trek)Place Type:
Religious Site, Pilgrimage,Entry Fees:
No Entry Fees:
Pilgrimage is Free: There is no entry fee to start the trek or to visit the shrines (Tonks) on Parasnath Hill. The pilgrimage is free and open to all.
Costs for Doli or Services: The main cos...No Entry Fees:
Pilgrimage is Free: There is no entry fee to start the trek or to visit the shrines (Tonks) on Parasnath Hill. The pilgrimage is free and open to all.
Costs for Doli or Services: The main costs incurred by pilgrims are for hiring a Doli (palanquin) or local carriers for the strenuous 27 km trek (costs vary depending on negotiation and season).
Accommodation and Donations: While entry to the temples is free, accommodation in the numerous Dharamshalas in Madhuban is often heavily subsidized or based on voluntary donations. Visitors should carry cash for voluntary donations, offerings, and basic amenities.
Guide Charges: A guide may be hired for the trek, which will incur a fee, though many choose to follow the marked path.Timing:
Regular Timings:
24/7 Access to Hill: The Parasnath Hill pilgrimage path is accessible 24 hours a day, as pilgrims start the trek late at night or very early morning (around 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM) to complete the journey by evening.Regular Timings:
24/7 Access to Hill: The Parasnath Hill pilgrimage path is accessible 24 hours a day, as pilgrims start the trek late at night or very early morning (around 3:00 AM to 4:00 AM) to complete the journey by evening.
Ideal Visit Time:
Early Morning Start: The Ideal Visit Time is to start the Parikrama trek before 4:00 AM to beat the mid-day sun, complete the climb during the cool morning hours, and witness the sunrise from the hill.
Tonk Opening Hours: The individual shrines (Tonks) on the hill are usually open from very early morning until sunset. The temples in Madhuban (base camp) follow standard temple hours (e. g. , 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM).
Different Parts of the Day:
Night and Dawn Trek: The night/dawn start is traditional.
Midday Heat: Midday should be avoided for trekking due to the intense heat.Special Events:
Moksha Saptami: The day when Lord Parshvanath attained Moksha (Nirvana) is celebrated as Moksha Saptami (on Shravana Shukla Saptami, typically in August), which is one of the grandest annual events, featuring mass offerings of Nirvana Laddu and recitation of the Nirvana Kan...Moksha Saptami: The day when Lord Parshvanath attained Moksha (Nirvana) is celebrated as Moksha Saptami (on Shravana Shukla Saptami, typically in August), which is one of the grandest annual events, featuring mass offerings of Nirvana Laddu and recitation of the Nirvana Kanda.
Annual Parasnath Fair: A significant annual fair is held, typically in January, attracting not just Jain devotees but also local tourists and pilgrims, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Paryushan Parva: The holy season of Paryushan Parva (typically in August or September) is observed with great devotion, special fasts, and rituals, making it a powerful time for spiritual reflection and pilgrimage.Best Photo Spots:
Panoramic View from the Summit: The highest point of Parasnath Hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding dense forests and hills, perfect for landscape photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The Tonks along the Parikra...Panoramic View from the Summit: The highest point of Parasnath Hill offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding dense forests and hills, perfect for landscape photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The Tonks along the Parikrama Path: The small, serene shrines (Tonks) dotted along the 27 km trek path, with the backdrop of the misty mountains and forest, provide excellent, atmospheric spiritual photos.
The Main Temple (Svarna Bhadra Koot): The marble structure of the main temple at the summit, often captured with the vast sky, is the quintessential image of Shikharji.
Intricate Marble Architecture in Madhuban: The large, beautifully crafted Jain temples in the base camp of Madhuban offer numerous opportunities for architectural photography, focusing on the detailed marble work and serene statues.
Pilgrims on the Trek: Candid shots of pilgrims undertaking the challenging trek, especially those being carried on Dolis, capture the immense devotion and human effort involved in the pilgrimage.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Undertake the Shikharji Parikrama: The most essential activity is the 27 km barefoot or on a Doli (palanquin) trek to visit all the Tonks of the Tirthankaras on the hill. It is a full-day (10-12 hours) spiritual and physical journey.
Perform Pooja and Darshan: Engage in prayer, meditation, and ritual worship (Pooja) at the various temples in Madhuban (the base camp) and at the Tonks atop the hill.
Visit the Svarna Bhadra Koot: Reach the summit to visit the main temple, the Svarna Bhadra Koot, to offer prayers and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Explore the Jain Dharamshalas and Temples in Madhuban: Spend time visiting the intricately designed, large Jain temples and the numerous Dharamshalas (pilgrims' rest houses) located at the base of the hill in Madhuban. ...Undertake the Shikharji Parikrama: The most essential activity is the 27 km barefoot or on a Doli (palanquin) trek to visit all the Tonks of the Tirthankaras on the hill. It is a full-day (10-12 hours) spiritual and physical journey.
Perform Pooja and Darshan: Engage in prayer, meditation, and ritual worship (Pooja) at the various temples in Madhuban (the base camp) and at the Tonks atop the hill.
Visit the Svarna Bhadra Koot: Reach the summit to visit the main temple, the Svarna Bhadra Koot, to offer prayers and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Explore the Jain Dharamshalas and Temples in Madhuban: Spend time visiting the intricately designed, large Jain temples and the numerous Dharamshalas (pilgrims' rest houses) located at the base of the hill in Madhuban.
Nature Walk and Bird-Watching: Given its location within the Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary, one can enjoy nature walks in the lush green surroundings and indulge in bird-watching, especially during the early morning hours.
Learn About Jain Philosophy: Utilize the sacred libraries and learning centers often present in the large Dharamshalas in Madhuban to learn about the history of Shikharji and the tenets of Jain philosophy.
Attend Morning and Evening Aarti: Participate in the devotional Aarti ceremonies conducted at the temples in Madhuban, experiencing the collective spiritual energy of the pilgrimage community.
Information
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Why Famous:
Moksha Sthali of 20 Tirthankaras: It is globally famous as the place where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras, including Lord Parshvanath, attained Moksha (Salvation), making it the single most sacred spot in Jainism. This unparalleled spiritual significance draws millions of ...Moksha Sthali of 20 Tirthankaras: It is globally famous as the place where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras, including Lord Parshvanath, attained Moksha (Salvation), making it the single most sacred spot in Jainism. This unparalleled spiritual significance draws millions of pilgrims annually.
Historical and Ancient Heritage: Shikharji has been an ancient Jain pilgrimage site for millennia, with literary references dating back to the 6th century BCE. This deep historical root adds to its importance as a center of faith.
Trekking and Scenic Beauty: The pilgrimage is a physical and spiritual challenge, involving a long, adventurous trek through dense forests and misty paths atop the Parasnath Hills, offering breathtaking views. This blend of adventure and devotion makes it a unique attraction.
Cultural and Religious Unity: The site is revered by both the Digambara and Shwetambara sects of Jainism, representing a point of unity and shared devotion within the faith. -
Architecture:
Tirthankara Tonks and Marble Shrines: The architecture of Shikharji is characterized by numerous small shrines or Tonks (commemorative pavilions) built at the spots where each of the 20 Tirthankaras attained Nirvana. The main shrine, the Svarna Bhadra Koot, at the summit i...Tirthankara Tonks and Marble Shrines: The architecture of Shikharji is characterized by numerous small shrines or Tonks (commemorative pavilions) built at the spots where each of the 20 Tirthankaras attained Nirvana. The main shrine, the Svarna Bhadra Koot, at the summit is often made of marble.
Dimension of Devotion:
The Parikrama Path: The main architectural feature is not a single large temple but the collective arrangement of the Tonks along the circular pilgrimage path (Parikrama), which is roughly 27 km long. The Tonks are relatively modest in size, reflecting the ascetic ethos of Jainism.
Material and Style: The temples and Tonks are generally constructed from marble and stone, featuring simple yet elegant designs. One notable structure is the Jal Mandir (Water Temple) on the hill, known for its beauty. The construction is focused on durability and reverence, with intricate marble carvings adorning the structures.
Madhuban Complex: At the base of the hill in Madhuban, there are several large, beautifully constructed Jain temples and Dharamshalas (Pilgrims' Rest Houses) built in contemporary and traditional styles, serving as the starting point for the pilgrimage. -
How To Reach:
By Air:
Via Ranchi or Kolkata: The nearest major airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi (IXR, approx. 175 km) or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata (CCU, approx. 350 km). From either airport, one must hire a pre...By Air:
Via Ranchi or Kolkata: The nearest major airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi (IXR, approx. 175 km) or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata (CCU, approx. 350 km). From either airport, one must hire a pre-booked taxi to reach Madhuban (the base of Parasnath Hill). The journey from Ranchi takes about 5-6 hours.
By Train:
Parasnath Railway Station: The most convenient way is by train to Parasnath Railway Station (PNME), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From Parasnath Station, Madhuban (the base camp) is about 15-20 km away and is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
By Road:
State Highway Network: Parasnath Hill is well-connected by road, lying off NH 2 (Grand Trunk Road). Buses and private taxis are available from cities like Bokaro, Dhanbad, and Ranchi to reach Madhuban. The drive from Bokaro is approximately 1. 5-2 hours.
By Local Transport:
Doli or Walking: The final journey up the hill must be undertaken by walking (Parikrama) or by hiring a Doli (palanquin), as no vehicular transport is allowed on the sacred hill. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Different Types of Seasons:
Peak Winter Season: The Best Time to Visit is during the cool, dry winter months, from October to March. The weather is highly pleasant (temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C), which is essential for the stren...Different Types of Seasons:
Peak Winter Season: The Best Time to Visit is during the cool, dry winter months, from October to March. The weather is highly pleasant (temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C), which is essential for the strenuous all-day trek.
Avoid Monsoon and Peak Summer: The monsoon (July to September) makes the trek difficult and slippery. Peak summer (April to June) is extremely hot, making the long walk dangerous.
Different Parts of the Day:
Sunrise Trek: The most Ideal Time of Day is to start the trek around 3:00 AM to reach the summit temples around sunrise, witnessing the spectacular view and performing the rituals in the cool morning air. -
Near Tourist Places:
Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary (surrounds the hill) (Nature and Wildlife): Tilaiya Dam (approx.
115 km) (Large Reservoir and Picnic Spot): Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park, Bokaro (approx.
70 km) (Zoo and Nature Park): Bhatinda Falls, Dhanbad (approx.
60 km) (Natural Waterfall): Shakti Mandir, Dhanbad (approx.
65 km) (Revered Hindu Temple): Topchanchi Lake (approx.
30 km) (Scenic Lake and Picnic Spot): Usri Falls, Giridih (approx.
50 km) (Natural Waterfall): Ram Mandir, Bokaro (approx.
70 km) (Prominent Hindu Temple): Garga Dam, Bokaro (approx.
80 km) (Scenic Dam and Picnic Spot): Koderma Thermal Power Station (approx.
100 km) (Industrial Site and Reservoir):
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety:
Physical Fitness and Hydration: The 27 km trek is demanding; assess your physical fitness beforehand. Carry sufficient water and energy-giving snacks. Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes (though many pilgrims walk bare...Health & Safety:
Physical Fitness and Hydration: The 27 km trek is demanding; assess your physical fitness beforehand. Carry sufficient water and energy-giving snacks. Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes (though many pilgrims walk barefoot, which is optional).
Packing Essentials:
Modest Clothing: Dress modestly as it is a sacred pilgrimage site (covering shoulders and knees is mandatory). Carry a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the early morning cold.
Accommodation:
Dharamshalas and Hotels: Accommodation is primarily available at the numerous Dharamshalas in Madhuban (the base camp), which are clean and affordable, or in hotels in nearby cities like Giridih or Bokaro. Book in advance during peak festival times.
Other Topics:
Respect and Silence: Maintain respect for the sacredness of the site, particularly during the Parikrama. Photography of the main deities inside the Tonks may be restricted.
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