Parasnath at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Jharkhand |
| Famous For | Jain Pilgrimage, Trekking, Shikharji |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Hindi |
| Nearest Airport | Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi (IXR), 160km from Parasnath |
| Nearest Railway | Parasnath Railway Station (PNME) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers |
Parasnath: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Parasnath, also known as Shikharji, is a significant Jain pilgrimage site located in Jharkhand. It is the highest peak in the state and considered one of the most sacred places for Jains, as it is believed that 20 of the 24 Tirthankaras attained salvation here.
Parasnath offers a unique blend of religious significance and natural beauty. The primary draw is the spiritual experience of visiting the temples and trekking to the summit. However, the infrastructure is basic, and the climb can be challenging for those not in good physical condition. If you're looking for spiritual solace and are prepared for a rigorous trek, Parasnath is worth visiting; otherwise, consider other destinations.
Parasnath: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shikharji Temple | Open 24 hours | Free | Early morning to avoid the mid | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Jal Mandir | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Any time of day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Bhomiyaji Temple | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Digambar Jain Temple | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Any time of day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Shwetambar Jain Temple | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Any time of day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Parasnath: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Parasnath: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Parasnath Railway Station (PNME) — Well-connected to major cities. Located close to the base of Parasnath Hill.
- From Delhi: 14-16 hours (₹800-2500)
- From Kolkata: 5-6 hours (₹500-1500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Parasnath: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi (IXR), 160km from Parasnath
- Delhi: 1.5 hours (₹3000-5000)
- Mumbai: 2 hours (₹4000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
- Bus: ₹500-800 (to Giridih, then local transport)
directions_bus Bus to Parasnath: Services & Timings
- From Ranchi: 4-5 hours (₹400-700)
Trains are generally more comfortable and convenient than buses.
Best Time to Visit Parasnath: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 10-25 degrees C | This is the best time for trekking and visiting the temples comfortably. The mod | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: July to September | 25-35 degrees C | The landscape is lush and green during the monsoon, offering a different perspec | Trekking during the monsoon can be |
| Avoid: April to June | 35-45 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. The high temperature | There are no real exceptions. It is |
Peak season note: This is the peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices for accommodation. Booking accommodation and transportation in advance is highly recommended.
2-Day Parasnath Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Shikharji Temple
Shikharji Temple is the main attraction, located at the summit of Parasnath Hill. It marks the spot where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirtha…
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of each shrine along the way.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Jal Mandir
Jal Mandir is a beautiful temple located in the middle of a pond at the base of Parasnath Hill. It is dedicated to Lord Parshvanat…
💡 Visit during sunset for beautiful reflections of the temple in the pond.
🙏 Bhomiyaji Temple
Bhomiyaji Temple is a small temple dedicated to the local deity Bhomiyaji, considered the protector of the region.…
💡 Offer a small donation to the temple as a sign of respect.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Digambar Jain Temple
The Digambar Jain Temple is one of the main temples at the base of the hill. It adheres to the Digambar sect of Jainism, known for…
💡 Dress modestly when visiting the temple.
🙏 Shwetambar Jain Temple
The Shwetambar Jain Temple represents the Shwetambar sect of Jainism, whose followers wear white clothes.…
💡 Observe the differences in the idols and rituals between the two temples.
Top Places to Visit in Parasnath: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🙏 Shikharji Temple | Free | 4-6 hours (trek included) | Open 24 hours |
| 2 | 📍 Jal Mandir | Free | 30 minutes | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 3 | 🙏 Bhomiyaji Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 🙏 Digambar Jain Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 5 | 🙏 Shwetambar Jain Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | ⛰️ Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary | ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
| 7 | 📍 Giriidih | Varies by location | Half day trip | Varies by location |
🙏 1. Shikharji Temple
Shikharji Temple is the main attraction, located at the summit of Parasnath Hill. It marks the spot where 20 of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras attained moksha.
Honest take: Worth it for the spiritual experience and panoramic views, but only if you are physically fit enough for the trek.
📍 Getting there: Start from the base of Parasnath hill; trekking is the only way to reach the temple.
📍 2. Jal Mandir
Jal Mandir is a beautiful temple located in the middle of a pond at the base of Parasnath Hill. It is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
Honest take: A nice addition to your visit, especially if you can't do the full trek.
📍 Getting there: Located at the base of Parasnath Hill; easily accessible by jeep or on foot.
🙏 3. Bhomiyaji Temple
Bhomiyaji Temple is a small temple dedicated to the local deity Bhomiyaji, considered the protector of the region.
Honest take: A quick stop on the main trek, more significant for religious pilgrims.
📍 Getting there: Located on the trekking route to Shikharji Temple.
Food & Restaurants in Parasnath: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Dal Baati Churma, Litti Chokha, Thekua, Peda
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Jain Thali | ₹₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Near Jain Temples |
| Dal Makhani | ₹ (₹200-400 for two) | Near Parasnath Railway Station |
| North Indian Dishes | ₹₹₹ (₹600-800 for two) | Giridih Road |
🛺 Street Food: Parasnath Market — Samosas, Jalebi, Chaat (₹50-100 per person)
Parasnath Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹1500-2500/night | N/A |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Parasnath: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giridih | 30 km | ~30–40 min | Coal Mining, Parasnath, Usri Falls |
| Hazaribagh | 100 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | national park, lake, forest |
| Ranchi | 160 km | ~4 hrs | waterfalls, tribal culture, Tagore Hill |
Hotels in Parasnath: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Parasnath
₹800-1200/night
Near Parasnath Railway Station
Yatri Niwas
₹500-1000/night
Near Jain Temples
🏨 Mid-Range
Hotel Grand Sharda
₹1500-2500/night
Giridih Road
Shikharji Jain Temple Trust Guest House
₹1200-2000/night
Near Shikharji Temple
⭐ Luxury
No Luxury Hotels Available
N/A
N/A
Consider Ranchi for Luxury Options
₹4000+/night
Ranchi (160km away)
Parasnath Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Fake Guides: Unofficial guides may overcharge or provide inaccurate information. Hire guides only from reputable sources or the tourism office.
- ✓ Theft: Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially near temples and markets. Keep your valuables secure.
- ✓ Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees. Wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Giridih and near the Parasnath Railway Station.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio offer good coverage in the area. Purchase a SIM card at the airport or in Giridih.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Parasnath
How many days are enough for Parasnath?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Parasnath. Day 1 covers Shikharji Temple, while Day 2 explores Jal Mandir and Bhomiyaji Temple.
What is Parasnath famous for?
Parasnath is famous for Jain Pilgrimage, Trekking, Shikharji.
What is the best time to visit Parasnath?
The best time to visit Parasnath is October to March. The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for trekking. Clear skies offer excellent views from the summit.
Is Parasnath worth visiting?
Yes, Parasnath is worth visiting for Jain Pilgrimage, Trekking, Shikharji. It is especially recommended for pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Giridih.
What is the budget for a trip to Parasnath?
A 2-day trip to Parasnath costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Shikharji Temple?
Shikharji Temple is open Open 24 hours. Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid the midday heat.
What is the entry fee for Shikharji Temple?
Entry fee at Shikharji Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Shikharji Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Shikharji Temple.
What are the timings of Jal Mandir?
Jal Mandir is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Any time of day.
What is the entry fee for Jal Mandir?
Entry fee at Jal Mandir: Free.
What is the dress code for Jal Mandir?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Jal Mandir.
What are the timings of Bhomiyaji Temple?
Bhomiyaji Temple is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening.
What is the entry fee for Bhomiyaji Temple?
Entry fee at Bhomiyaji Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Bhomiyaji Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Bhomiyaji Temple.
What are the timings of Digambar Jain Temple?
Digambar Jain Temple is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Any time of day.
What is the entry fee for Digambar Jain Temple?
Entry fee at Digambar Jain Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Digambar Jain Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Digambar Jain Temple.
What are the timings of Shwetambar Jain Temple?
Shwetambar Jain Temple is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Any time of day.
What is the entry fee for Shwetambar Jain Temple?
Entry fee at Shwetambar Jain Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Shwetambar Jain Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Shwetambar Jain Temple.