In Digambar Jain tradition, 13 panthi and 20 panthi are two main sub‑sects (groups). Both follow the same basic Jain Dharma (same Tirthankar, same Agam‑Tattva), but differ mainly in rituals and organization, not in core philosophy.

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1. 20 Panthi (Bisapanthi / “बीस पंथी”)

• Who they are:

Older, more traditional branch of Digambar Jains. Often called Bisapanthi / Bisapantha.

• Main features (very simply):

- Accept Bhattaraka / Gurus as religious heads in many areas. - Temple worship (mūrtipūjā) is central – with: - idols of Tirthankars, - full rituals, āratī, incense, sometimes flowers, etc. (as per local maryādā). - More “ritual‑rich” style of practice. - Many old Digambar sanghs and organizations are from this stream.

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2. 13 Panthi (Terapanthi / “तेरह पंथी”)

• Who they are:

A later reform movement inside Digambar tradition (roughly from 17th century). Name “Terapanth / 13 panth” is linked to a group of thirteen leaders / maryādā‑points.

• Main features (very simply):

- Came up in reaction to some 20‑panthi practices, especially: - dependence on Bhattarakas, - some elaborate rituals. - Try to limit or simplify worship: - many groups avoid flowers, some types of offerings, etc. - more emphasis on simple, śāstra‑based pūjā. - Stress on self‑discipline and “maryādā” – doing only what they consider strictly scriptural.

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3. What is the basic difference?

In one line:

• 20 Panthi – older Digambar stream, more temple‑rituals, Bhattaraka tradition, fuller external worship.
• 13 Panthi – reform Digambar stream, wants simpler, more “śāstra‑based” worship, less dependence on Bhattarakas and fewer external rituals.

Both:

• Accept the same 24 Tirthankar, same moksha‑marg, same basic Digambar doctrines (like keval‑jñān, karmas, vows, etc.).
• Difference is mainly in practical way of worship and organization, not in basic tattva.

You can read a bit more here

• Difference between 13‑panti and 20‑panti Jains
• Why Digambar Jains have 20‑panthi and 13‑panthi sub‑sects