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Shikharji (Parasnath)

Shikharji (Parasnath)

pilgrimage site · Jharkhand

State
Jharkhand
Type
Pilgrimage Site
Best season
Winter
Things to do
2+

Shikharji, atop Parasnath Hill — Jharkhand's highest peak — is the holiest pilgrimage site in Jainism, where twenty of the twenty-four Tirthankaras are believed to have attained moksha. Devout pilgrims undertake a demanding ~27-km barefoot trek across the forested ridge, visiting shrines (tonks) marking each liberation.

When to go

Best visited October to March, though hill shrines may open only May-October.

Why visit

Jainism's holiest site, where 20 of 24 Tirthankaras attained liberation — a sacred forested ridge trek above Jharkhand.

Cultural notes

The supreme tirtha of Jainism, Shikharji is revered by both Digambara and Svetambara sects, and the entire Parasnath hill is treated as sacred ground.

How to reach

Nearest rail Parasnath station on the Delhi-Kolkata line; nearest airport Ranchi/Patna. The trek begins from Madhuban.

Shikharji (Parasnath) guide & itineraries

Popular attractions

The places in Shikharji (Parasnath) most people come for.

Shikharji Parikrama

Shikharji Parikrama

Experience

Madhuban Temple Town

Madhuban Temple Town

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