Nestled in the scenic hills of Jharkhand, Parasnath is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Jains. This sacred mountain, also known as Shikharji, is believed to be the place where 20 out of the 24 Tirthankaras attained moksha (liberation). At the foothills of Parasnath lies Madhuban, a vibrant pilgrimage center and the starting point for the sacred yatra.
Madhuban is home to several ancient and newly constructed Jain temples that attract devotees from all over the world. The town exudes spirituality, with its peaceful surroundings, grand temples, and the ever-present chants of Navkar Mantra.
Ancient Jain Temples in Madhuban
Shree Digambar Jain Bada Mandir
One of the oldest and most revered temples in Madhuban, Bada Mandir (also called Shri Digambar Jain Siddha Kshetra), is known for its intricate carvings and historical significance. The temple houses stunning idols of Tirthankaras, including a majestic idol of Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
This temple is a major stop for pilgrims before they begin their trek up the Parasnath Hill. The temple complex also has a dharmashala (resting place) and a museum displaying ancient artifacts and scriptures related to Jainism.
Jal Mandir
A unique and serene temple, Jal Mandir is located near a sacred pond. Devotees believe that bathing in this holy water purifies the soul. The temple’s peaceful ambiance and the reflection of the shrine in the water make it a must-visit spot.
New Jain Temples in Madhuban
Over the years, several new temples have been built in Madhuban to accommodate the growing number of devotees and preserve the legacy of Jainism.
Samavasaran Mandir
One of the recent additions, the Samavasaran Mandir, is a beautifully designed temple representing the divine assembly where a Tirthankara delivers sermons. The architecture of this temple is grand, featuring intricate designs and a peaceful aura, drawing visitors to meditate and seek spiritual solace.
Trikal Chaubeesi Jain Mandir
This temple is dedicated to all 24 Tirthankaras of the present, past, and future time cycles (Trikal Chaubeesi). The temple is adorned with marble and colorful carvings, making it a breathtaking sight. Pilgrims often stop here to pay their respects before proceeding on the Shikharji Yatra.
Experiencing the Yatra
The Parasnath Yatra is an intense and spiritually enriching journey. The trek to the summit, approximately 27 km (to and fro), is undertaken by thousands of devotees every year. Pilgrims often begin their trek from Madhuban in the early hours, chanting Bhaktamara Stotra and other Jain hymns.
Key spots on the way include:
- Gandharva Nala (Streams of Celestial Beings) – Considered a sacred water source.
- Chandraprabhu Tonk – Associated with the 8th Tirthankara, Chandraprabhu.
- Jal, Rijuvalika, and other Tonks – Where different Tirthankaras attained salvation.
Many devotees choose to complete the yatra barefoot, while others opt for dolis (palanquins) carried by local porters.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for the Parasnath Yatra is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for trekking. The festival of Mahavir Jayanti and Kartika Purnima sees a huge influx of pilgrims.
Conclusion
Madhuban serves as a spiritual gateway to Shikharji, offering a mix of ancient heritage and newly built temples. Whether it’s the centuries-old Bada Mandir or the modern Samavasaran Mandir, each temple adds to the sacred atmosphere of the place. A visit to Madhuban and the Parasnath Yatra is not just a pilgrimage but a journey of faith, devotion, and self-discovery.
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