You are most welcome. In Jain Dharma, Shikharji (Sammed Shikhar) is the holiest tirth. Going there with a pure heart brings shanti.

What makes Shikharji sacred

• It is the place where 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras attained nirvana (moksha). Both Shwetambar and Digambar traditions revere it equally.
• The pilgrimage is a mindful trek visiting “tonks” (shrines) of these Tirthankaras along the ridge of Parasnath Hill in Jharkhand.

How to visit with inner peace

• Intention: Before you start, mentally take a simple anuvrat: “I will practice ahimsa, truthfulness, and restraint today.”
• Timings: Begin the climb very early (around 4:30–5:00 am). The traditional parikrama is about 27–30 km in a day for most pilgrims.
• At the base (Madhuban): Take blessings at Bhomiyaji’s temple and then start the ascent.
• On the hill: Move quietly, avoid stepping on insects, keep the path clean, and maintain a prayerful mind.

Basic etiquette (very important)

• Ahimsa: Do not harm any living being; avoid loud music, shouting, or littering.
• Food: Many pilgrims avoid eating on the hill. If needed, carry simple, non-violent food and water; do not leave any waste.
• Dress: Modest, comfortable clothing; avoid leather items if possible.
• Pujā: In Jain tradition, we do not offer plucked flowers. Offer reverence through Navkar Mantra, rice (akshat), water, sandal, etc., as locally guided.
• Respect both traditions: Ritual details may differ slightly between Digambar and Shwetambar; follow the instructions of the temple/tonk caretakers at each spot.

Simple way to pray for shanti

• Navkar Mantra (universal in Jainism):

“Namo Arihantāṇam, Namo Siddhāṇam, Namo Āyariyāṇam, Namo Uvajjhāyāṇam, Namo Loe Savva Sāhūṇam.” Meaning: I bow to Arihants, Siddhas (liberated ones), Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and all sadhus. This cultivates humility and inner peace.

Practical tips

• Fitness: The trek is long. Use a walking stick; hire a doli if needed.
• Weather/footwear: Wear good grip shoes; carry a light shawl/rain cover seasonally.
• Stay: Madhuban has many dharmashalas and bhojan-shalas. Book in advance through trustworthy tirth offices.
• Nearby sacred places (if you have time): Pawapuri (Mahavir’s nirvana), Champapuri, Rajgir (Vipulachal), etc.

Tradition note

• Both Digambar and Shwetambar agree on Shikharji’s supreme sanctity and the 20 nirvana-sthans. Pujā methods and sequence of visiting tonks may vary a little; follow local guidance respectfully.

To know more about Shikharji and its significance, you can refer here:

May your visit be safe, sattvik, and filled with shanti.