About the Jain Temple
Shikharji, also known as Parasnath Hill, is the most revered pilgrimage site for Jains, located in the Giridih district of Jharkhand, India. It is considered the holiest place in Jainism as it is believed to be the salvation site (moksha sthala) of 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras, including Lord Parshvanatha. The hill is surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, attracting devotees and tourists alike. Pilgrims undertake an arduous trek to visit the beautifully crafted temples atop the hill, making it a significant religious and natural landmark.
Description of Shikharji Jain Temple
The temple complex consists of several temples and shrines, each dedicated to different Tirthankaras. It is one of the highest peaks in Jharkhand with an elevation of 1,365 meters or 4,478 feet. Pilgrims undertake a 27 km trek (to and fro) from Madhuban to reach the summit, where the main sanctum is located. The site is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a spiritually uplifting environment.
Speciality of Shikharji Jain Temple
Shikharji is the most sacred Jain pilgrimage site where 20 Tirthankaras attained nirvana. It is considered the “Eternal Light” of Jainism, symbolizing spiritual liberation. The temple complex houses numerous white marble temples with intricate carvings and Jain symbols. Pilgrims perform the Parikrama (circumambulation) around the hill, covering important shrines. The Shwetambara and Digambara sects have their own separate temples and rituals here. The trek is undertaken barefoot by many devotees as an act of devotion.
Temple Address
Shikharji Jain Temple, Parasnath Hill, Madhuban, Giridih District, Jharkhand, India - 825329
Location Coordinates
Latitude, Longitude: 23.9786° N, 86.1486° E
Temple Timings
The temple is open all day. Pilgrims start their trek early in the morning, around 3-4 AM. The temples remain open for darshan throughout the day. Trekking at night is generally not recommended due to safety concerns.
Sevas (Services & Rituals)
Main Sevas performed at Shikharji include Snatra Puja (ritual bath of idols), Ashta Prakari Puja (offering of rice, sandalwood, incense, flowers, and fruits), Deepak Lighting (lighting oil lamps for divine blessings), Maha Abhishek (holy bathing of idols with milk and water), Ayambil Tap (fasting ritual followed by a simple meal), and Nirvana Ladoo Offering (prasad offering at specific shrines).
Travel Information
How to Reach Shikharji
By Train
The nearest railway station is Parasnath Railway Station (PNME), located 25 km from Madhuban. Major trains halting at Parasnath include Howrah-Delhi Rajdhani Express, Mumbai-Howrah Mail, Purushottam Express, and Black Diamond Express. From Parasnath station, buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available to Madhuban.
By Air
The nearest airports are Deoghar Airport (107 km, 3 hours by road), Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi (180 km, 4.5 hours by road), and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport in Kolkata (310 km, 6.5 hours by road). From the airport, taxis or buses can be taken to Madhuban.
By Bus
Direct buses are available from Ranchi, Dhanbad, Giridih, and Kolkata. Government and private buses frequently operate to Madhuban. From Madhuban, the trek to the temple begins.
Facilities at Shikharji
Traveling Facilities
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Parasnath station to Madhuban. Palkis (palanquins) and Dolis are available for elderly devotees. Ponies are not allowed due to the temple's sanctity.
Food Facilities
Only pure vegetarian Jain food is available. No garlic, onions, or root vegetables are served in temple kitchens. Several Bhojnalayas (community kitchens) provide free food (dana-shala) to pilgrims.
Stay Facilities
Many Jain Dharamshalas and Ashrams provide budget-friendly accommodation. Some well-known Dharamshalas include Bhomiyaji Taleti Dharamshala, Shri Digambar Jain Siddha Kshetra Dharmashala, and Shwetambar Jain Mandir Dharamshala. Hotels are available in Madhuban and Giridih.
Nearby Transport Hubs
Nearby Railway Station: Parasnath Railway Station (25 km)
Nearby Airport: Deoghar Airport (107 km), Ranchi Airport (180 km)
Nearby Bus Station: Madhuban Bus Stand (direct buses available)
Routes to Shikharji
Bus Routes
From Kolkata: Kolkata → Dhanbad → Giridih → Madhuban
From Ranchi: Ranchi → Hazaribagh → Giridih → Madhuban
From Patna: Patna → Nawada → Koderma → Madhuban
Train Routes
From Kolkata: Howrah → Parasnath → Madhuban
From Delhi: New Delhi → Parasnath → Madhuban
From Mumbai: Mumbai → Howrah Mail → Parasnath → Madhuban
Airways to Shikharji
From Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad: Flight to Ranchi or Deoghar Airport → Taxi/Bus to Madhuban
Nearby Cities
Giridih (40 km)
Dhanbad (70 km)
Hazaribagh (120 km)
Ranchi (180 km)
Kolkata (310 km)
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Chandraprabhu Jain Temple – Giridih
Bhomiyaji Temple – At the base of Shikharji
Ruins of Khandoli Fort – Giridih
Usri Falls – Beautiful waterfall near Giridih
Khandoli Park – Ideal for nature lovers
Shopping Options:
Based on user reviews, there are shops available at Shikharji. These shops sell essentials such as:
Water
Energy drinks
Dry food like biscuits
Walking sticks and other essentials
Shikharji stands as a symbol of deep spiritual significance and architectural
beauty, drawing Jain devotees from across the world. Its tranquil environment, coupled with its religious importance, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking peace and enlightenment. The pilgrimage to Shikharji is not just a journey through nature but also a profound spiritual experience, reinforcing its status as one of the most sacred sites in Jainism.
