Siddhachalam

Siddhachalam is a Jain spiritual center spread across 120 acres of hilly land in northwestern New Jersey, featuring temples, meditation spaces, and natural walking trails. The complex sits among forested grounds with several structures designed for different practices.

The center was founded in 1983 when Acharya Sushil Kumarji converted an abandoned children's summer camp into a Jain pilgrimage site. This became the first place of this kind outside India and created a new anchor for the community.

The temples here hold marble statues of different Tirthankaras, showing how various branches of Jainism exist side by side without division. Visitors notice how these different traditions are brought together with mutual respect.

Guests can stay up to three days during religious events or meditation programs while following guidelines aligned with monastic living. The grounds provide lodging for those who participate, with clear expectations about daily conduct.

The complex includes a recreation of the Shikharji pilgrimage paths with roughly three miles of trails winding through the forested grounds. This recreation allows visitors to experience an important Indian pilgrimage site without traveling far from home.

Location: New Jersey

Inception: 1983

GPS coordinates: 40.95480,-74.95190

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:04