Reach Parasnath Hill Rising quietly through the lush green forests of Jharkhand’s Giridih district, Parasnath Hill, also known as Shikharji, is not just a mountain it is a living pilgrimage, a divine journey of faith that millions of Jain devotees undertake every year.
Standing at 4,480 feet above sea level, Parasnath is the highest peak in Jharkhand and one of the most sacred sites in Jainism.
According to Jain tradition, 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras attained Moksha (liberation) on this very hill. Each step taken on the rocky path is believed to dissolve karmic impurities, leading pilgrims closer to spiritual awakening.
But Parasnath Hill is more than religion it is also a place of natural peace. Surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and clouds, it attracts not only devotees but also trekkers, nature photographers, and spiritual travelers who come seeking silence and perspective.
This comprehensive guide will help you plan your entire journey, from reaching Parasnath to trekking up Shikharji, learning about the temples, experiencing the local culture, and returning home with a heart full of peace.
Understanding the Location and Planning the Trip
Before setting foot on the sacred path, it’s important to understand where you’re heading.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Madhuban, Giridih District, Jharkhand |
| Altitude | 4,480 ft (1,370 m) |
| Nearest Towns | Isri Bazar, Dumri, Giridih |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2–3 Days (including trek) |
| Weather | Cool and pleasant; winter mornings can be misty |
The journey to Parasnath is both physical and emotional. While pilgrims walk barefoot as a vow of devotion, regular travelers can undertake the climb as a mindful trek.
Carry comfortable trekking clothes, light woolens, and simple vegetarian food if possible. Most locals observe Jain dietary customs — no onion, garlic, or root vegetables.
How to Reach Parasnath Hill
By Train – The Most Convenient Way
The nearest railway station is Parasnath (PNME), located on the Delhi–Howrah Grand Chord Line, between Dhanbad and Asansol. It is well-connected to major Indian cities.
🔹 Major Trains to Parasnath Station (PNME):
| From City | Train Name / Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Purushottam Express (12801/02), Poorva Express (12381/82), Rajdhani (12306) | Daily service via Gaya–Asansol line |
| Kolkata | Black Diamond Express (22387), Coalfield Express (12339) | Direct trains, 5–6 hrs journey |
| Mumbai | Geetanjali Express (12860), Howrah Mail (12809) | Indirect routes via Bilaspur / Asansol |
| Ranchi / Patna | Intercity or Express Trains | Frequent connectivity |
| Ahmedabad / Jaipur | Kolkata Express (multiple stops) | Verify PNME halt before booking |
💡 Booking Tip:
On IRCTC, always check for “PNME” as a stop before confirming your ticket. Some trains pass through but do not halt.
By Road
If you prefer road travel, Parasnath is connected by NH-19 (old NH-2, Delhi–Kolkata highway).
| Route | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ranchi → Parasnath | 181 km | 5 hours |
| Kolkata → Parasnath | 340 km | 7–8 hours |
| Patna → Parasnath | 200 km | 5 hours |
| Dhanbad → Parasnath | 65 km | 1.5 hours |
From Parasnath town or Isri Bazar, you can take autos, shared jeeps, or local buses to Madhuban, the base of the trek.
By Air
The nearest airports are:
- Dhanbad Airport: 65 km (limited flights)
- Ranchi Airport: 180 km (major hub)
- Gaya Airport: 200 km (alternative for northern pilgrims)
From these airports, hire taxis or use buses toward Giridih → Madhuban.
Reaching the Base Madhuban Jain Teerth
Madhuban is the gateway to Parasnath Hill a quiet village filled with dharamshalas, temples, and pilgrims preparing for their journey.
It is here that your spiritual and physical climb begins. The town itself is sacred, dotted with ancient Jain shrines such as:
- Bhomiyaji Temple: The guardian deity of Parasnath.
- Samosharan Temple: Represents the divine preaching platform of Lord Mahavira.
- Kundalpur Jain Temple: Known for artistic architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Local Transport (Parasnath Station → Madhuban):
- Auto Rickshaw / Jeep: ₹500–800 (25 km)
- Shared Ride: ₹150–200 per person
- Bus: Local, every hour, ₹50–100
Before beginning the trek, pilgrims visit Bhomiyaji Temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The Trek Path to Liberation
There are two main trekking routes to reach the top of Parasnath Hill.
🔸 Route 1: Madhuban (North Route)
- Distance: 13 km (one way)
- Terrain: Gradual, shaded, cemented path
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Facilities: Rest huts every 2–3 km, snack stalls, water points
- Highlights: Tonks of Tirthankaras, Gandharva Nala, forest serenity
This is the most popular and traditional route used by pilgrims and families.
🔸 Route 2: Isri Bazar (South Route)
- Distance: 8 km trek (2 km motorable)
- Terrain: Steeper, natural trail through forest
- Difficulty: Moderate to tough
- Preferred By: Trekkers seeking solitude and natural views
Trek Timings & Duration
- Start between 4:00–5:00 AM (cool weather)
- Average trek duration: 6–8 hours round trip
- Return before 2:00 PM (avoid afternoon heat)
What to Carry
- 2 liters water bottle
- Fruits, biscuits, dry snacks
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Power bank
- Cash (no UPI or card service)
- Wooden stick (₹50–100 at base)
- Cap / Rain poncho / Light jacket
Temples & Tonks on the Hill
As you climb, you’ll pass 20 Tonks, each representing a Tirthankara’s attainment of Moksha.
Some of the most revered are:
- Tonk of Parshvanath (Summit Temple) – The highest point, main shrine.
- Tonk of Neminath – Symbolizes detachment from worldly life.
- Tonk of Chandraprabhu – Known for peaceful energy.
- Tonk of Shitalnath – Associated with inner coolness and peace.
- Tonk of Mahavira Swami – Dedicated to Lord Mahavira’s meditation.
Each Tonk has marble platforms, Sanskrit inscriptions, and areas for silent prayer.
The Ritual Experience
When pilgrims reach the summit, they perform Jalabhishek a ritual offering of water and prayers to honor the Tirthankaras.
Some carry holy water from Madhuban’s Jal Mandir to pour upon the idols above.
Devotees maintain silence during prayers, recite Namokar Mantra, and meditate facing the sunrise.
Even non-Jain visitors often describe this as a moment of deep calm and clarity.
Stay and Eat
🛏️ Where to Stay
| Place | Type | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Jain Dharamshalas (Madhuban) | Pilgrim lodging | 300–600 |
| Hotel Shikharji Inn | Budget hotel | 800–1200 |
| Gautam Vihar Resort | Deluxe stay | 2000–3000 |
| Local Guest Houses | Family-run | 500–1000 |
All dharamshalas provide clean rooms and basic vegetarian meals. Advance booking is advised during festivals like Mahavir Jayanti and Kartik Purnima.
Where to Eat
- Jain Bhojnalayas: Pure vegetarian, no onion/garlic.
- Street Stalls: Tea, biscuits, water, snacks along the trek.
- Tips: Carry fruits or light food; avoid plastic and littering.
History & Significance
The story of Parasnath Hill stretches deep into history.Ancient Jain texts describe this as the place where 20 Tirthankaras attained Nirvana making it the most sacred site in the Jain world.
The earliest stone inscriptions date to 10th century CE, though oral traditions trace worship here to over 2,500 years ago.
In the 19th century, Jain communities built marble temples to preserve the holy sites, leading to the modern pilgrimage structure seen today.
The hill’s name comes from Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankara, revered for his teachings on compassion, non-violence, and truth.
Practical Tips & Etiquette
- 🚫 No Leather: Avoid belts, wallets, shoes in temple areas.
- 🕰️ Timings: Start trek early; temple closes by noon.
- 💧 Hydration: Carry enough water; refills limited.
- 📵 Connectivity: Patchy network beyond Madhuban.
- 🙏 Silence: Maintain quiet near Tonks and shrines.
- ⚠️ Monsoon Warning: Paths get slippery; avoid July–Sept.
- 💰 Cash: Bring sufficient cash, ATMs not reliable.
Sample Budget (2-Day Trip)
| Item | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Train (one way) | 500–1500 |
| Taxi (station → base) | 600 |
| Stay (per night) | 800 |
| Meals | 300 |
| Trek essentials | 200 |
| Total Estimate | ₹3,500–4,500 |
Nearby Attractions
If time allows, explore nearby destinations:
- Khandoli Park (Giridih): A lake and hilltop park with boating.
- Usri Falls: A scenic waterfall 14 km from Giridih.
- Topchanchi Lake: Beautiful picnic spot near Dhanbad.
- Rajgir (Bihar): Ancient Jain and Buddhist site, 130 km away.
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Contact / Location |
|---|---|
| CRPF Base Camp | Madhuban |
| Jain Trust Office | Hill Base & Summit |
| Local Police | Isri Bazar, Giridih |
| Nearest Hospital | Giridih District Hospital |
Festivals & Events
Parasnath comes alive during special occasions:
- Mahavir Jayanti (April): Processions, prayers, and charity.
- Paryushan Parva (August–Sept): Fasting and spiritual reflection.
- Kartik Purnima Mela (Nov): Thousands gather for hill darshan.
During these times, accommodations fill quickly advance booking is essential.
Conclusion: The Climb Within
A journey to Parasnath Hill is not merely a climb it is an ascent within.Each stone you step on echoes centuries of devotion. Each chant rising from the valleys carries the prayers of millions.
At the summit of Shikharji, when clouds swirl around the white marble temple and the air hums with silence, you realize this place isn’t just sacred it’s eternal.
To walk here is to walk the path of enlightenment, to see nature and divinity merge into one timeless presence. So, pack lightly, walk mindfully, and let Parasnath Madhuban call you home to peace.