Ashtapad Tirtha

Ashtapad Tirtha: The Sacred Mountain of Nirvana

Ashtapad, located near the holy Mount Kailash, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Jainism. Known as the place where the first Jain Tirthankara, Bhagwan Rishabhdev (also called Rishabhanatha), attained Nirvana, Ashtapad holds a profound spiritual significance. It is a center of immense devotion for Jain followers, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year seeking spiritual fulfillment.

The Meaning of Ashtapad

The name Ashtapad translates to “Eight Steps”, a reference that could be linked to either the eight peaks that surround the mountain or the ancient belief that the ascent to the top was accomplished in eight grand steps. According to some interpretations, the “eight steps” could symbolize the spiritual journey, with each step leading closer to Nirvana, the ultimate spiritual goal. Ashtapad is also known as Ashtapad Tirth and is believed to be the site of great historical and spiritual events in Jainism.

The Historical and Spiritual Significance

Ashtapad holds a special place in Jain tradition due to its association with Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, who is also known as Ādinātha (the first Lord). It is said that Rishabhdev, after attaining Nirvana, was commemorated by his son, Chakravarti King Bharat, who built a crystal palace with gemstones as a memorial to his father’s spiritual liberation.

This sacred site, therefore, becomes more than just a pilgrimage destination—it represents the achievement of spiritual enlightenment. For Jains, Ashtapad symbolizes purity, serenity, and the divine path to liberation. The mountain is surrounded by eight peaks, which are thought to represent the essence of spiritual ascent. The location is also noted for its natural beauty, offering a serene environment that amplifies the spiritual experience.

Ashtapad and Mount Kailash

Located in the Sichuan Province of Southwest China, near the Tibetan border, Ashtapad is often included as a key stop on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The proximity of Mount Kailash, regarded as the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva, further elevates the significance of Ashtapad. While Mount Kailash attracts pilgrims from various religious backgrounds—Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism—Ashtapad holds particular importance for Jains, as it is the site where Rishabhdev attained Nirvana.

The journey to Ashtapad can be challenging, requiring permission from local Lamas to visit the mountain. The location of Ashtapad itself has been the subject of much intrigue, with ongoing research into its exact coordinates, but its spiritual aura and significance are beyond doubt.

Rishabhdev: The First Tirthankara

Rishabhdev, also known by many other names like Ādinātha (First Lord), Adishvara, and Prathamaraja, is a key figure in Jainism. He is considered the founder of Jainism, having lived millions of years ago in the Purva period. Descriptions of his towering presence, such as his height of 1,200 feet, are found in Jain texts and are believed to transcend human understanding. As the first of the 24 Tirthankaras, Rishabhdev’s teachings and life form the cornerstone of Jain philosophy and spirituality.

According to Jain tradition, he attained Nirvana at Ashtapad, making it an especially sacred site for his followers. It is said that he lived for over 8.4 million years and has inspired generations of Jains through his spiritual wisdom and guidance.

A Place of Pilgrimage

Every year, Ashtapad attracts countless pilgrims who undertake the journey to this sacred mountain with the hope of attaining spiritual liberation. The pilgrimage to Ashtapad is a path of purification, where devotees seek to cleanse their soul and deepen their connection to the divine. The serene atmosphere of the mountain, coupled with its historical and spiritual significance, makes it a place of deep reverence and reflection.

For those participating in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a visit to Ashtapad is a deeply transformative experience. It is not just a physical journey but a spiritual quest to purify one’s soul, gain inner peace, and achieve the ultimate goal of Nirvana