My Spiritual Journey: Palitana Tirth Yatra on Shatrunjaya Hill

As a devotee of Jainism, undertaking the Palitana Tirth Yatra has been one of the most transformative experiences of anyones life. Palitana, located in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district, is often called the “City of Temples” and is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Jains worldwide. The sacred Shatrunjaya Hill, also known as Satrunjaya, hosts over 900 exquisitely carved marble Jain temples, making it a breathtaking “temple city” atop a hill.

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The Significance of Palitana

Jain tradition holds that 23 of the 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers) sanctified Shatrunjaya with their visits, and the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhanatha (Adinath), attained nirvana here. The hill symbolizes victory over inner enemies like anger, pride, and greed. Devout Jains believe visiting Palitana at least once in a lifetime is essential for spiritual liberation (moksha). The main temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, with intricate carvings that turn the marble structures golden in sunlight.

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Preparing for the Yatra

Prepare your visit during the cooler winter months (November to March is ideal to avoid the intense heat). Palitana is a fully vegetarian city—the world’s first officially vegetarian town—reflecting Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence). No meat, eggs, or even root vegetables are sold here.

You can stayed at a comfortable dharamshala (pilgrim guesthouse) near Taleti, the base of the hill. These are affordable, clean, and managed by Jain trusts. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during festivals like Mahavir Jayanti or the Chha Gau Yatra.

Rules to Follow:

• No food or water on the hill (except for offerings like rice/coconut).
• Remove leather items (belts, shoes—go barefoot or in canvas).
• No overnight stays on the hill.
• Start early (before sunrise) for cooler climb and to catch morning aarti.

The Climb: 3,750 Steps to Divinity

The yatra begins at dawn. The path involves climbing about 3,750 stone steps over 3.5-4 km, taking 2-3 hours for a fit person. It’s challenging but rewarding—each step feels like shedding worldly attachments.

Along the way, you’ll pass rest points, small shrines, and fellow pilgrims chanting “Jai Jinendra.” Many elderly devotees use dolis (palanquin chairs carried by porters) for the ascent. You can see families, monks, and groups in white robes, some performing the ultimate Navanu Yatra (99 climbs!).

At the summit: A marble wonderland

Reaching at the top is magical. The temples are grouped in Tuks, with Bhagwan Adinath temple in the centre. The best experience you can ever have in life.

Jai Jeenendra!