Significance
Sammed Shikharji, on the Parasnath Hills near Madhuban in Jharkhand, is held to be the most sacred site in Jainism. Tradition holds that twenty of the twenty-four Tirthankaras attained moksha (liberation) here — the exceptions usually named are Rishabhanatha, Vasupujya, Neminatha and Mahavira, each of whom is said to have attained liberation elsewhere.
Both Digambar and Shwetambar traditions revere the hill equally, and both maintain temples and shrines (tonks) across it, dedicated to individual Tirthankaras. The pilgrimage is understood as an act of profound merit, and many devotees undertake it barefoot.
History
The Parasnath Hills — the highest point in Jharkhand at roughly 1,350 metres — take their common name from Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara, one of the Tirthankaras traditionally said to have attained moksha here. Pilgrimage to the hill is recorded across many centuries, and temple construction on it has continued into the modern era.
How to reach
Giridih district, Jharkhand
The nearest railway station is Parasnath Junction (also called Parasnath Rail), on the Grand Chord line between Kolkata and Delhi. Madhuban, the town at the base of the hill where most dharamshalas and temples are located, is a short drive from the station. The main pilgrimage route to the summit and back — the parikrama — covers roughly 27 kilometres and is usually completed in a single day, starting well before dawn.
Darshan timings
The parikrama typically begins in the early hours of the morning, before sunrise, so pilgrims can complete the full circuit and descend before dark. Palanquins (doli) are available at the base for those unable to walk the full distance.
Timings can change on festival days. Please confirm with the local trust before travelling.