The alarm rang at 3:00 AM. Outside our dharamshala in Madhuban, the air was cold and crisp. We adjusted our trekking gear, grabbed our bamboo walking sticks, and began our ascent of Parasnath Hill (Shikharji). At 1,365 metres, this is the highest point in Jharkhand and the most sacred pilgrimage site for Jains across the globe.
The pilgrimage is a 28-kilometre walk. It involves climbing 9 km to the ridge, completing a 9-km loop on the summit to visit the 20 sacred Tonks (shrines), and trekking 9 km back down. The entire path is paved with stone, winding through dense tropical forests populated by monkeys and rare birds.
As we reached the ridge around 6:30 AM, the rising sun painted the clouds below us in shades of pink and gold. Standing on the edge of the cliff, looking down at the misty valleys of Giridih, the spiritual energy of the hill was palpable. Each white marble shrine commemorates a Tirthankara who attained Moksha (liberation) here, and the silence around these shrines is profound.
We completed the trek in approximately 9 hours. For those planning a visit, carrying light snacks, dates, and warm clothing for the early morning hours is essential. Palanquins (dolis) are available at the base for those unable to walk. The journey is physically demanding but mentally and spiritually rejuvenating.