Sammed Shikharji Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimages in Jainism. Located in the Parasnath Hills of Jharkhand, India, it is believed to be the place where 20 out of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras attained salvation (moksha). Every year, thousands of Jain devotees visit this holy site to seek blessings and spiritual peace.
Significance of Sammed Shikharji
For Jains, Sammed Shikharji is as sacred as Mount Kailash is for Hindus. It is the highest peak in the Parasnath Hills, standing at 1,365 meters. The word "Sammed" means "peak," and "Shikharji" refers to the sacred mountain. According to Jain beliefs, many Tirthankaras meditated and achieved liberation here.
The pilgrimage is especially important for followers of Digambar and Shwetambar sects of Jainism. They believe that walking this path with devotion cleanses sins and brings them closer to moksha.
The Journey of the Yatra
The Sammed Shikharji Yatra is not an easy journey. The path is steep and requires physical effort. Devotees walk barefoot as a sign of respect and purity. The total distance is around 27 kilometers, covering several holy spots (tonks) where the Tirthankaras attained salvation.
Some of the main tonks include:
Tonk of Lord Parshvanath – The 23rd Tirthankara.
Tonk of Lord Mahavir – The 24th and last Tirthankara.
Tonk of Lord Adinath (Rishabhdev) – The first Tirthankara.
Each tonk has a temple or a marker where pilgrims offer prayers. The climb is tough, but the spiritual energy keeps devotees motivated.
Rituals and Practices During the Yatra
Pilgrims follow strict rules during the yatra:
They avoid eating after sunset.
They walk silently, focusing on prayers.
Many observe fasting to purify their minds and bodies.
They avoid harming any living being, following the Jain principle of non-violence (ahimsa).
The journey usually takes two to three days. Devotees stay in dharamshalas (rest houses) or tents provided by trust organizations.
Challenges Faced by Pilgrims
The yatra is physically demanding. The steep paths, rocky terrain, and changing weather make it difficult. Elderly devotees often take palanquins (palkis) carried by helpers. Despite the hardships, the faith of the pilgrims keeps them going.
Another challenge is the lack of proper facilities in some areas. However, Jain trusts and volunteers work hard to provide food, water, and medical help to pilgrims.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for the Sammed Shikharji Yatra is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be very hot, and monsoons make the paths slippery and risky.
How to Reach Sammed Shikharji
The nearest town is Madhuban, which is well-connected by road. The closest railway station is Parasnath Station, and the nearest airport is in Kolkata or Ranchi. From Madhuban, pilgrims start their journey on foot or by vehicle up to the base.
Conclusion
Sammed Shikharji Yatra is more than just a pilgrimage—it is a journey of faith, discipline, and devotion. The tough climb teaches patience and humility. For Jains, it is a way to connect with their spiritual roots and seek inner peace.
If you ever get a chance to visit, you will feel the divine energy of this sacred mountain. Whether you are a Jain devotee or a spiritual seeker, the experience of Sammed Shikharji will stay with you forever.