Ashtapad and Sammed Shikharji are two of the most sacred pilgrimage places in Jainism. Every Jain devotee dreams of visiting these holy sites at least once in life. These places are not just mountains. They are places of moksha (liberation) and deep spiritual power. The Ashtapad Jain Yatra and the Sammed Shikharji Yatra are considered very important for spiritual growth. Devotees walk long distances, chant prayers, and remember the teachings of the Tirthankaras. The journey brings peace to the mind and purity to the soul. Let us understand the importance of both these sacred places in simple words.
Ashtapad Tirth – The Sacred Mountain of Lord Rishabhdev
Ashtapad Tirth is believed to be located near Mount Kailash in Tibet. It is one of the holiest places in Jainism. According to Jain belief, this is the place where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev (also known as Adinath), attained nirvana or moksha. Ashtapad means “eight steps.” It is said that there were eight steps leading to the sacred mountain. Devotees believe that King Bharat, the son of Lord Rishabhdev, built a beautiful temple here in ancient times. Though the original Ashtapad is believed to be near Mount Kailash, it is not easy to visit due to difficult travel conditions. Because of this, many replicas of Ashtapad have been built in India for devotees.
Importance of Ashtapad Jain Yatra
The Ashtapad Jain Yatra is very special for Jain followers. It reminds them of:
- The life and teachings of Lord Rishabhdev
- The path of non-violence (Ahimsa)
- Detachment from worldly desires
- The goal of liberation
Devotees believe that remembering Ashtapad with faith gives spiritual strength. Even if one cannot visit the original place, praying with true devotion brings peace. The mountain also represents purity and spiritual height. Just like climbing a mountain needs effort, reaching moksha also needs discipline and faith.
Sammed Shikharji – The Land of Twenty Tirthankaras
Shikharji, also known as Sammed Shikharji, is located in the state of Jharkhand. It is one of the most important Jain pilgrimage places in India. This holy mountain is also called Parasnath Hill. It is believed that 20 out of 24 Tirthankaras attained moksha here. Because of this, Sammed Shikharji Yatra holds a very high place in Jain religion. The 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanatha, also attained nirvana here. His temple is one of the main attractions on the hill.
The Spiritual Journey at Sammed Shikharji
The yatra at Sammed Shikharji is not easy. Devotees walk around 27 kilometers to complete the full parikrama (round journey). The climb starts early in the morning. During the walk, pilgrims visit different “tonks.” Tonks are small shrines built at the places where each Tirthankara attained moksha. Devotees stop at each tonk, offer prayers, and chant mantras. The atmosphere is peaceful. You can hear only prayers and the sound of footsteps. Many devotees walk barefoot as a sign of respect. The journey teaches:
- Patience
- Discipline
- Devotion
- Simplicity
Completing the Sammed Shikharji Yatra is considered a great spiritual achievement.
Difference Between Ashtapad and Sammed Shikharji
Both places are sacred but have different importance.
- Ashtapad is linked with Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara.
- Sammed Shikharji is linked with 20 Tirthankaras.
- Ashtapad is believed to be near Mount Kailash.
- Sammed Shikharji is located in Jharkhand, India.
- Ashtapad is difficult to access.
- Sammed Shikharji can be visited by devotees throughout the year.
Both yatras focus on moksha and spiritual upliftment.
Why Every Jain Devotee Wishes to Visit
The Ashtapad Jain Yatra and the Sammed Shikharji Yatra are not just travel journeys. They are spiritual journeys. Devotees believe that visiting these places:
- Reduces karmas
- Brings inner peace
- Strengthens faith
- Inspires simple living
Many elderly devotees save money and prepare for years to complete Sammed Shikharji Yatra. Some even perform the journey more than once. Families often go together. Children learn about Jain history and values during the trip.
Best Time to Visit Sammed Shikharji
The best time to visit Sammed Shikharji is between October and March. The weather is pleasant during these months. Summer can be very hot, and climbing becomes difficult. Pilgrims usually stay at Dharamshalas near the base of the hill. Simple vegetarian Jain food is available. Many places serve food without onion and garlic. The yatra usually starts around 3 or 4 AM. It takes 8 to 10 hours to complete the full trek.
Spiritual Lessons from These Yatras
Both Ashtapad and Sammed Shikharji teach powerful spiritual lessons.
- Life is temporary.
- Material things do not give real happiness.
- Non-violence is the highest religion.
- Self-control leads to freedom.
The Tirthankaras showed the path of truth and compassion. By visiting these places, devotees remember their teachings. The physical climb reminds us that spiritual growth needs effort. Every step taken on the mountain is like moving closer to self-realization.
Importance in Jain Tradition
In Jain tradition, pilgrimage is called “Tirth Yatra.” A tirth is a place that helps the soul cross the ocean of birth and death. Sammed Shikharji is one of the five major Jain Tirths. It is often included in Jain pilgrimage packages along with Palitana, Girnar, and other holy sites. Ashtapad holds emotional and spiritual importance because it is connected to the first Tirthankara. Many Jain scriptures mention the greatness of these places. Saints and monks have also praised their spiritual energy.
Conclusion
Ashtapad and Sammed Shikharji are two shining jewels of Jain pilgrimage. They are places of faith, sacrifice, and liberation. The Ashtapad Jain Yatra reminds devotees of Lord Rishabhdev and the beginning of Jain teachings. The Sammed Shikharji Yatra connects devotees to 20 Tirthankaras who attained moksha there. Both journeys teach simplicity, patience, and devotion. They help devotees move closer to spiritual purity. For every Jain follower, visiting these sacred mountains is not just a wish. It is a lifetime goal. The peace and blessings received from these holy places stay in the heart forever.