Parasnath Hill (Shikharji)
The holiest Jain pilgrimage in the world
Parasnath Hill — locally Sammet or Sammed Shikharji — is the highest mountain in Jharkhand (1,365 m / 4,479 ft) and the most sacred site in the Jain faith. Twenty of the twenty-four Tirthankaras attained Moksha here. The pilgrimage involves a 9 km uphill trek (18 km return) past 24 shrines, traditionally completed barefoot.
How to reach Parasnath Hill (Shikharji) from Ranchi
By cab from Ranchi, take NH-23 east via Ramgarh and Hazaribagh, then state road to Madhuban (the base of the trek). 180 km, ~4.5 hours. Nearest railway station: Parasnath (11 km from Madhuban).
Highlights
- ✦Highest peak in Jharkhand (1,365 m)
- ✦24 marble shrines, one for each Tirthankara
- ✦9 km uphill trek (start at Madhuban base)
- ✦Spectacular sunrise from the summit
- ✦Doli (palanquin) service for elderly pilgrims
Suggested itinerary
- 1Day 1 · 12:00 — Pickup from Ranchi
- 2Day 1 · 16:30 — Reach Madhuban, check-in to dharamshala
- 3Day 1 · 18:00 — Evening aarti at Bhomiyaji temple
- 4Day 2 · 04:00 — Begin uphill trek
- 5Day 2 · 11:00 — Sunrise + summit shrines
- 6Day 2 · 14:00 — Descent and lunch at Madhuban
- 7Day 2 · 19:00 — Back in Ranchi
Insider tips
- 💡Start the trek by 4–5 AM — 6+ hours total
- 💡Trek is barefoot for Jain pilgrims; non-Jains may wear soft shoes
- 💡Carry water, snacks, headlamp
- 💡Stay overnight at Madhuban base for an early start
Nearby attractions
- Madhuban dharamshalas (base)
- Giridih town (40 km)
- Topchanchi Lake (60 km)
FAQs about Parasnath Hill (Shikharji)
How long is the Shikharji trek?
9 km uphill from Madhuban base to the summit, with 24 shrines along the way. The full circuit is 18 km return — most pilgrims take 7–8 hours including darshan time.
Can non-Jains visit Parasnath Hill?
Yes — the trek and shrines are open to all visitors. Non-Jains are asked to dress modestly and avoid leather items. Photography is restricted inside the shrines.
Is doli service available at Shikharji?
Yes — palanquin (doli) service is available at the Madhuban base for elderly or disabled pilgrims. Costs vary; book a day in advance during peak season.
