The short answer
Parasnath Tonk (Tonk 31): what visitors should know first
This is the culmination of the yatra and the reason many pilgrims come. It lies on the highest peak at the western end of the ridge; reaching it means the full circuit or a long doli ride, but the descent from here is the easier part.
History and context
The story behind Parasnath Tonk (Tonk 31)
Jain tradition holds that Parshvanatha attained liberation here, at the age of 100, with dates given as 772 BCE or the 8th century BCE. The present temple structure at the base was rebuilt in 1768 by Jagat Seth Mahtabchand, according to Wikipedia, and the pilgrim facilities grew through the 19th and 20th centuries.
The chronology of the summit structure itself is not independently verified here.
Useful facts
Parasnath Tonk (Tonk 31) facts at a glance
- Location
- Westernmost, highest peak of Parasnath Hill
- Faith
- Jain
- Deity/dedication
- Parshvanatha, 23rd tirthankara
- Height
- About 1,365 m above sea level
- Visitor note
- Moksha Saptami (July to August) draws very large crowds
- Built
- Present structure not verified here
Why it matters
Why Parasnath Tonk (Tonk 31) is worth your time
Parshvanatha is among the best-known tirthankaras, and this summit is believed to be where he attained liberation. The hill is sometimes called Parasnath after him. Reaching this tonk completes the pilgrimage circuit.
The site is also contested in the present. The hill is sacred to Santal communities as Marang Buru, and in 2025 the Jharkhand High Court directed the state to enforce an existing ban on meat, alcohol and intoxicants on the hill. Visitors should expect to follow local rules and treat both traditions with respect.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The footprint with the umbrella
A chatra over the footprint marks this as Parshvanatha's tonk, distinguishing it from the others.
- 02
The summit view
The highest point in Jharkhand gives long views over the plateau.
- 03
Moksha Saptami
Observed with nirvana laddu offerings and recitation of the Nirvana Kanda.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The Parasnath tonk is usually the last stop of the circuit. It stands on the highest and westernmost peak at about 1,365 m, known as Suvarnabhadra Kuta, and some pilgrim guides call it the Meghadambar Tonk. Pilgrims come here after the ridge walk, often in early afternoon.
The shrine is a two-storey structure. A chatra, or umbrella, marks Parshvanatha's footprint, which sets it apart from the other tonks. A Jain heritage source describes an underground cell with rock-cut footprints marking the nirvana. Pilgrims offer rice and sweets, and on Moksha Saptami, observed on Shravana Shukla Saptami (July to August), large crowds come with nirvana laddus and recite the Nirvana Kanda. Avoid that date unless you are prepared for dense crowds.
After the prayers, take your time. Sit, drink water and eat, then start the descent to Madhuban before the light fades. The return path is paved and described as fairly easy.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Plan to reach it by early afternoon so you can descend in daylight
- Carry rice or sweets if you wish to make an offering
- Avoid Moksha Saptami unless you want the festival crowds
- Follow current conduct notices on the hill, including rules on meat and alcohol
- Save energy for the descent
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Westernmost and highest peak of Parasnath Hill
- Time needed
- 30 to 60 minutes at the shrine
- Best time
- Late morning on the circuit; November to February
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The tonk is at the far end of the ridge, so seniors reach it by doli or after hours of steady walking. The shrine has steps and little space to rest; the descent afterwards is described as easier.
- Tickets and access
- No entry fee. Remove footwear and dress modestly. Pilgrims commonly offer uncooked rice and sweets. Check current conduct notices and any photography rules on the hill.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Parasnath Tonk (Tonk 31)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The tonk is at the far end of the ridge, so seniors reach it by doli or after hours of steady walking. The shrine has steps and little space to rest; the descent afterwards is described as easier.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the Parasnath tonk the highest point?
Yes, it is on the highest peak of Parasnath Hill, about 1,365 m, the highest point in Jharkhand.
When is Moksha Saptami?
It is observed on Shravana Shukla Saptami, usually in July or August, when Parshvanatha's liberation is celebrated. Dates vary each year.
Is the tonk numbered 31?
A pilgrim guide numbers it Tonk 31, the last of the sequence, though numbering varies between sources.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Shikharji
- Siddhachalam: tonks in suggested trail order
- Jain Heritage Centres: Madhuban and Parasnath Hill
- Drishti IAS: Dispute over Parasnath Hill (May 2025)
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
