Shikharji, also known as Sammed or Sammet Shikharji, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites of Jains in the Giridih district of Jharkhand. It is situated on the Parasnath hill, the highest mountain in the state of Jharkhand. It is the most important Jain pilgrimage site, as it is the place where twenty of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras as well as many other monks attained salvation. It is one of the five major pilgrimage sites along with Girnar, Pawapuri, Champapuri, Dilwara, Palitana and Ashtapad Kailash. At 1,350 meters (4,430 ft) high, this mountain is also the highest point in Jharkhand.
Why is Shikharji famous?
❀ Shikharji is the place where twenty of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras including Parshvanath and many other monks attained salvation. Both Digambara and Shwetambar consider this pilgrimage site as the most important Jain pilgrimage.
❀ There are several Jain temples in the Shikharji temple complex, the main temple of which is dedicated to Lord Parshvanath. The temple is situated on a hilltop, and can be reached by climbing 1,052 steps. The climb is considered a test of one's devotion and stamina, and many pilgrims undertake it to seek blessings and spiritual enlightenment.
❀ Shikharji Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Jains and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple complex is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.
How to reach Shikharji?
Shikharji is situated in Parasnath hill, Madhuban, District Giridih, Jharkhand state. To reach Shikharji you have to climb this mountain with your feet or with the help of people who will lift and carry you to the top to receive the blessings of Jain Gods.
To visit Shikharji, devotees have to cover a distance of 27 km in a day, which includes 9 km climb up the hill, 9 km walk up the hill with so many Jain temples and 9 km back. Parasnath is very well connected to other cities so you can take a bus till near Parasnath hill and the fastest way to reach Shikharji from Parasnath station is by taxi which takes 19 minutes.
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