त्योहार · JHARKHAND
March 31, 2026 (lunar calendar, Chaitra Shukla 13) · Shikharji
Birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara. At Shikharji, devotees participate in processions, scripture recitations, and charitable meals. Pilgrimage to Shikharji is particularly significant during this festival.
क्यों मायने रखता हैMost important festival for Jain community; commemorates the spiritual teachings and liberation of Lord Mahavir.
March brings wildflowers to Shikharji's forest trail and the first hint of warmth that makes the 27km feel longer than it did in winter. Start early.
Shikharji में अभी
सिग्नेचरsatvik Jain thali
Breakfast (Navkarshi to 9:30 am) is the easiest window for solo trekkers heading up; dinner closes at sunset, so a 6 pm arrival back at Madhuban is the practical cutoff in winter.
सिग्नेचरHot tea with biscuits
Only fruit, biscuits, hot water and tea allowed under pilgrimage rules - no cooked meals. Cash only. The middle stop near Gandharva Nala is the most reliably open in winter.
सिग्नेचरVegetarian thali
Pure-veg only by local convention; non-veg has to come from Giridih, 25 km out. Reliable from 7am to 9pm. Tap water - carry sealed bottled water during yatra season.
सिग्नेचरSatvik thali (dal, rice, roti, sabzi, khichdi)
Free or token-fee for registered yatris staying in the kothi; outside guests pay a modest charge. Lunch slot 11:30-13:00, dinner 19:00-20:30. No food carried out; eat on the premises. Footwear, leather and tobacco strictly disallowed.
Supreme Jain pilgrimage site with 24 temples on Parasnath Hill. Highest peak in Jharkhand at 4,480 ft.
Small shrine halfway through the parikrama dedicated to water. Pilgrims believe drinking water here grants blessings. Natural spring feeds the temple.
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