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Sammed Shikharji Jain Yatra is the most important pilgrimage for Jains. It is also known as Shikharji, Sammed Shikhar, or Parasnath Hill. This holy site is in Giridih district, Jharkhand, India. It is special because 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras attained moksha (liberation) here. That makes it the holiest place in Jainism for many devotees. Both Digambar and Shwetambar Jains visit this place with deep respect.
History and Importance
Ancient Jain texts mention Sammed Shikharji as a place of great spiritual power. The hill is named after Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara, who attained moksha here. Other Tirthankaras like Rishabhnath, Ajitnath, Sambhavnath, Abhinandan, Sumatinath, Padmaprabhu, Suparshvanath, Chandraprabhu, Suvidhinath, Shitalnath, Shreyansnath, Vimalnath, Anantnath, Dharmanath, Shantinath, Kunthunath, Aranath, Mallinath, Munisuvrat, Neminath also reached moksha on different peaks of this hill.
The yatra is not just about visiting temples. It is a way to remember the teachings of non-violence, truth, and simple life. Many Jains believe doing this pilgrimage helps in spiritual growth and reduces bad karma.
How to Reach Sammed Shikharji
The base town is Madhuban, at the foot of Parasnath Hill.
By Train: Parasnath Railway Station (on the Grand Chord line) is the nearest. It is about 12-17 km from Madhuban. Many trains stop here, including from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and other cities.
By Road: From Parasnath station, take a taxi, auto, or shared jeep to Madhuban (30-45 minutes). Buses also run from nearby cities like Giridih, Dhanbad, or Ranchi.
By Air: Nearest airport is Ranchi (about 160 km) or Kolkata (around 300 km). From there, take a train or bus.
In Madhuban, many Jain dharamshalas offer free or low-cost stay with pure vegetarian food.
The Yatra Route and Trek Details
The Sammed Shikharji Jain Yatra is a trek of about 27 km in total:
9 km uphill from Madhuban to the first tonk
9 km on the top to visit tonks (small temples)
9 km downhill back to Madhuban
The path is a concrete paved trail in most parts, with steps in steep areas. It goes through dense forest.
Pilgrims usually start at 2-4 am to finish in one day. Forest rules do not allow staying overnight on the hill. You must return before sunset.
There are around 30-31 tonks on the hilltop. Each tonk marks the nirvana place of a Tirthankara or saint. Some key tonks include:
Tonk 1: Gautam Swami (Ganadhar of Mahavira)
Tonk for Chandraprabhu (often one of the tougher ones)
Tonk for Parshvanath (main summit temple with footprints)
Jal Mandir (water temple)
Others for Rishabhnath, Shantinath, etc.
The main temple at the highest point has charan (footprints) of many Tirthankaras. The view from the top shows green hills and valleys.
Options for the trek:
Walk the full way (most common for devotion)
Use doli (palanquin carried by porters) – costs around ₹3000-5000 round trip, good for elderly or those with health issues
Best Time to Visit
The best time for Sammed Shikharji Jain Yatra is October to March. Weather is cool and pleasant. Avoid monsoon (July-September) due to slippery paths and rain. Summer (April-June) can be very hot. Winter months, especially around Diwali or January, see more crowds but clearer views.
What to Expect During the Yatra
Start early from Madhuban dharamshala.
Carry water, as points are available but limited.
Small shops sell tea, fruits, biscuits.
Follow Jain rules: no non-veg, no alcohol, simple clothes, no leather items.
Chant mantras or walk in silence for better focus.
The trek is hard – steep climbs test body and mind, but it brings peace.
Practical Tips
Wear good trekking shoes and light cotton clothes.
Carry water bottle, small towel, dry fruits, medicines.
Respect the forest – no littering, no loud noise.
Book doli in advance if needed.
Plan 3-5 days total trip: one day travel to Madhuban, one day yatra, rest for recovery.
Non-Jains can visit but must follow rules and respect the place.
Stay hydrated and walk at your pace.
Conclusion
The Complete Guide to Sammed Shikharji Jain Yatra shows it is a journey of faith, effort, and inner peace. Climbing the hill, visiting each tonk, and remembering the Tirthankaras helps pilgrims feel closer to moksha. Many say the yatra changes their life with more calm and kindness. If you are planning this spiritual trip, prepare well and go with an open heart. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many Jains.
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