India is a land of many spiritual places, and one such sacred place for Jain followers is Sammed Shikharji. Located on Parasnath Hill in Jharkhand, this holy place is known for its calm surroundings and deep religious value. Every year, thousands of Jain devotees take part in the Sammed Shikharji Yatra, which is more than just a journey – it is a way to connect with faith and find peace.
The Spiritual Meaning
Sammed Shikharji is very important in Jainism because 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras attained Moksha here. Moksha means freedom from the cycle of birth and death. The hill is full of temples and holy footprints of the Tirthankaras. For Jain people, going on this yatra is a dream and a very spiritual experience.
The Sammed Shikharji Yatra is believed to clean the mind and soul. People who take part in the yatra feel peaceful and connected to the values of Jainism like truth, kindness, and non-violence.
Starting the Yatra
The journey begins from a small town called Madhuban at the base of the hill. Madhuban has everything a pilgrim needs – dharamshalas for staying, simple Jain food, and shops with prayer items. From here, the actual walk to the hill starts. It is about 27-30 kilometers long and takes one to two days to complete, depending on one’s pace.
Many pilgrims choose to walk barefoot as a sign of respect. Some also take a doli or palki, especially elderly people who cannot walk the entire distance. The path is calm and full of nature. Birds, trees, and fresh air make the walk peaceful.
Temples on the Way
As you move ahead on the Sammed Shikharji Yatra, you will find many small temples called "tonks." Each tonk is dedicated to a Tirthankara. Some important ones are:
Rishabhdev Tonk
Parshvanath Tonk
Mahavira Tonk
Kunthunath Tonk
At each tonk, pilgrims stop to pray and meditate. These stops give a moment of rest and reflection during the yatra.
What to Carry and How to Prepare
While the yatra is spiritual, it also requires physical strength. Here are some tips to prepare:
Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes (if not going barefoot).
Carry water bottles and dry snacks.
Take basic medicines for tiredness or cold.
Respect the silence and avoid loud talking or music.
During the Sammed Shikharji Yatra, many people also choose to fast or stay silent for a deeper experience. This helps them focus on prayers and feel more spiritually connected.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to go on the yatra is from October to March. The weather during this time is cooler, which makes walking easier. Summers can be too hot, and the rainy season can make the path slippery. During Jain festivals like Paryushan and Mahavir Jayanti, more people visit the site.
Support and Facilities
In recent years, the path has improved with better signs, rest points, and food stalls offering simple Jain food. Volunteers also help guide visitors and maintain cleanliness. There are also trained palki carriers who assist elderly pilgrims.
Local Jain trusts manage dharamshalas and ensure that pilgrims get proper facilities without high costs. Clean water, simple food, and clean rooms are available for all.
More Than a Pilgrimage
The Sammed Shikharji Yatra is more than a visit to a holy place. It teaches important lessons of patience, self-control, and kindness. Even if someone is not very religious, walking through the green forests and peaceful hills helps calm the mind.
Many people who have done this yatra say they come back feeling light and happy. It gives a break from the busy life and helps people think about what is truly important – peace, love, and truth.
Conclusion
The Sammed Shikharji Yatra is a journey of faith, peace, and deep connection with spiritual roots. It is not just a trek up a mountain, but a chance to learn, grow, and feel close to the teachings of the Jain Tirthankaras. Whether you are a follower of Jainism or just someone looking for peace and meaning, this yatra is a path worth walking.
