Located in the Giridih district of Jharkhand, India, Parasnath Hill is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for the Jain community. With a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years, the hill is named after the 23rd Tirthankara, Lord Parshvanatha. The splendid temple complex atop the hill, also known as Shikharji, symbolizes peace and salvation.
For centuries, Parasnath Hill has been a revered destination attracting pilgrims who embark on a journey to its summit with faith and devotion. The tourism history at Parasnath Hill is deeply intertwined with the spiritual significance it holds within the Jain religion. According to Jain texts, twenty out of the twenty-four Tirthankaras attained Moksha from the top of this hill, making it an incredibly holy place.
The hill is also revered as a place where several other saints and sages have meditated and attained enlightenment. As the highest mountain in Jharkhand, reaching an elevation of 1,350 meters, it presents both a physical and spiritual challenge to those who climb it. The influx of pilgrims and tourists has remained steady over the years, with the majority visiting during the auspicious period of ‘Falgun Mela’ held in March and April.
Visitors to Parasnath Hill can explore numerous Jain temples that are considered architectural masterpieces. The ascent to the hilltop is a trek of approximately 27 kilometers and is usually undertaken barefoot by the devotees as an act of reverence. Along the trek, there are several smaller shrines and temples, each holding its own significance and story.
Concerning recent trends, the local authorities and the Jain community have been taking measures to facilitate better amenities for tourists to foster sustainable tourism. While maintaining the sanctity and ecological balance of the region, efforts have been made to improve accommodation facilities and the overall tourist experience.
Environmental concerns have prompted the introduction of eco-friendly measures to ensure the preservation of the hill’s natural beauty and its religious importance. Conscious tourism is highly encouraged, with emphasis on leaving no trace and respecting the local customs and rituals.
Today, Parasnath Hill continues to grow as a tourism destination not just for the Jain community but also for international tourists seeking spiritual experiences, natural beauty, and a taste of India’s profound religious heritage.
For those planning to visit Parasnath Hill, the nearest railway station is at Parasnath and the closest airport is Birsa Munda Airport, in Ranchi. It is recommended that pilgrims and tourists wear comfortable attire suitable for trekking and respect the religious sentiments of the Jain community. An experienced guide can enrich the visit by providing detailed insights into the hill’s history and the significance of the temples.
