Among the oldest religions in the world, Jainism is one that embodies non-violence and asceticism, Jainism holds its pilgrimages in high regard. These sacred journeys are a quest for self-discovery, spiritual and cultural enrichment, enlightenment, peace, and a chance to delve deeper in the faith. For Jains, a Jain pilgrimage tour is a chance to truly connect to the divine and meditate on life’s truths.
The Spiritual and Cultural Connotations of Jain Pilgrimage
In Jainism, a ‘Tirtha Yatra’ or pilgrimage is a crucial part of spiritual practice. Tirtha is the sacred bridge between the mortal and materialistic world and spiritual freedom. During a pilgrimage, one is able to visit holy sites that form the essence of Jainism, being associated with the Tirthankaras or spiritual teachers of Jainism who are looked up to and revered by all. On a Jain pilgrimage tour, the essence of its cultural and spiritual connotations involve:
Enlightenment
As pilgrims, Jains believe in detaching from the materialistic world to focus on their spiritual journey. By visiting the many sacred sites on a pilgrimage, devotees practise penance, purify their souls, and commit again to the principles that form the practice of Jainism. With a demanding journey that often asks a lot out of the devotee, overcoming the many challenges along the way acts a symbol to the path of enlightenment.
Fellowship
Another important essence of a Jain pilgrimage tour is immersing yourself in fellowship and community. Devotees from all over come together on a pilgrimage to share their experience, faith, and life stories that uplift one another. This sense of community lays emphasis on unity and strengthening of shared values.
Pilgrimage Destinations that Imbibe the Rich Culture of Jainism
For Jains in India on their Jain pilgrimage tour, here some of the destinations that truly imbibe the rich culture of Jainism.
Palitana
Palitana is a stunning complex that is nestled in the Shatrunjaya Hills. This has also led to Palitana being called Shatrunjaya by many. This place is home to intricately carved temples or marble that exude magnificence. Among the most sacred sites of pilgrimage, reaching the temple requires devotees to climb over 3800 steps to partake in prayers and self-reflection.
Shikharji
Built on the Parasnath Hill, Shikharji is yet another destination along a Jain pilgrimage tour. This site is considered sacred for the belief that twenty Tirthankaras or the twenty-four have attained moksha right in this place. Reaching this beautiful site involves a trek through dense forests and landscapes that are challenging and arduous but worth every second of it. Devotees can choose to meditate or perform rituals at the many temples out here.
Shravana
Home to one of the tallest monolithic statues, Shravanabelagola is a site that is immensely sacred and important to Jains all over the world. This place symbolises self-realisation and renunciation. Every 12 years, a grand anointing ceremony called the Mahamastakabhisheka is held here that brings in devotees from everywhere to celebrate this cultural event.
On a Jain pilgrimage tour, one goes beyond just travelling to the many sacred sites. The journey involves a deep look into your soul to reach the point of renunciation, soul cleansing, and self-purification. Every destination along the journey holds a blend of rich history and spiritual depth that allows you delve into the profound teachings of the religion as you gaze at the splendid architecture.
Your Jain pilgrimage tour is made even more fulfilling with NFTT World taking care of the time-consuming task of planning the tour. From Jain cuisine to your itinerary, every detail is meticulously taken care of by your trusted tour planners to help you make the most of your journey to enlightenment. All you need to do is spend your time enriching your soul and spirit as we take care of the rest.
