Ashtapad is one of the most revered and holiest pilgrimage sites for Jains. According to the Jain holy texts, Rishabhadeva—-the first Tirthankara of Jains attained salvation (moksha) at Ashtapad. The word Ashtapad implies ‘Eight Steps’. These eight steps are said to be the gateway to enlightenment and nirvana (salvation). Ashtapad Tirth is a greatly celebrated and the most desired pilgrimage for Jains. 

Let us discuss Ashtapad and its significance. Not many know about this place, but Ashtapad in Jainism holds great religious significance.

Location of Ashtapad:

Ashtapad Jain Temple is located at an altitude of 4900m near Mount Kailash in Tibet. The inner parikrama (kora) of Mount Kailash is needed to reach Ashtapad. It is situated in the Himalayan region and just closer to the Mount Kailash. 

Significance Of Ashtapad Jain Temple:

According to Jain scriptures, Ashtapada Jain Temple is the place where the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabadeva, attained Salvation. Later, his Chakravarti King Bharat, the son of Rishabhdeva built a palace of crystals and gemstones making it a memorial of his father's nirvana. The Ashtapad mountain is embellished with precious crystal stones and gemstones. Many devotees of Bhagwan Mahavira, Rishabhadeva, and followers of Jainism perform meditation near the Ashtapad Temple. 

Is Ashtapad Darshan Allowed?

Ashtapad Darshan was allowed until 2013. However, due to an accident, the Tirth is no longer open for pilgrims. The Ashtapad darshan requires an inner parikrama of Mount Kailash. Our tour packages are not inclusive of any Ashtapad Darshan. It is a lesser-known pilgrimage site of Jains. However, Ashtapad Tirth Jain Mandir remains one of the most pious and revered pilgrimages.