Shikharji, Religious pilgrimage site on Parasnath Mountain, Jharkhand, India
Shikharji is a temple complex on Parasnath Mountain in the North Chotanagpur division of Jharkhand state, India, sitting at an elevation of 1365 meters. The site includes multiple shrines and temples arranged along a circular path around the summit.
Twenty of the twenty-four Tirthankaras in Jainism attained liberation at this place, which has been revered since the 6th century BCE. Over the centuries, the temples have been rebuilt and expanded, with the current structures reflecting continuous religious construction activity.
The name comes from "Shikhar," meaning peak, and the site serves as the most sacred destination for Jains worldwide. Worshippers walk barefoot along the entire circuit, pausing at each shrine to offer prayers and reflect on the lives of those who attained liberation here.
Access is through Parasnath railway station, located 25 kilometers from the base village of Madhuban, where the ascent begins. The circular route requires good physical condition, and visitors should start early in the morning to complete the entire path during daylight.
Both major Jain sects, Digambara and Svetambara, share the same temple structures here, which is rare at Jain pilgrimage sites. The 31 shrines along the route each mark a footprint meant to commemorate the moment of liberation of a Tirthankara.
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