Ashtapad Yatra is one of the most important pilgrimages in Jain religion. It is believed to be the place where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhdeva (also called Adinath), attained moksha (liberation). This holy place is said to be located in the Himalayan region, near Mount Kailash in Tibet. For Jains, doing the Ashtapad Yatra is considered a very great act of devotion.

What Does "Ashtapad" Mean?

The word "Ashtapad" comes from two Sanskrit words — "Ashta" meaning eight and "Pad" meaning steps or feet. So Ashtapad means "eight steps." According to Jain scriptures, there were eight steps or levels on this holy mountain. It is written in old Jain texts that Rishabhdeva climbed these eight steps and finally attained liberation at the top.

Where Is Ashtapad?

The exact location of Ashtapad is a matter of belief and research. Many Jain scholars and followers believe that Ashtapad is located near Mount Kailash in the Tibet region of China. Some believe it is the same as Mount Kailash, while others say it is a separate peak nearby. Since the region is in Tibet and is under Chinese control, it is very difficult for pilgrims to reach there. This is why the yatra has not been done physically by most people in modern times.

Importance in Jain Religion

For Jains, Ashtapad holds very deep religious meaning. It is said that after Rishabhdeva attained moksha here, his son King Bharat built a great temple on this mountain. This temple was called the Sinhnishadya temple and was said to be made of gold and precious stones. The temple had idols of all 24 Tirthankaras. Though this temple no longer exists physically, the belief in its existence keeps the faith of Jain pilgrims strong.

The Ashtapad Yatra is not just a physical journey. It is also seen as a spiritual journey — a journey of the soul toward truth and liberation. Jains who go on this yatra do so with complete devotion and a clean heart.

Efforts to Revive the Yatra

In recent years, several Jain organizations and religious leaders have been making efforts to revive the Ashtapad Yatra. Some groups have organized symbolic yatras in India, especially in the Himalayan regions of Uttarakhand, to keep the tradition alive. There have also been diplomatic efforts to get permission from the Chinese government to allow Jain pilgrims into the Tibet region for this yatra.

Religious gatherings and conferences have been held where scholars discuss the historical and spiritual importance of Ashtapad. Many Jains around the world pray for the day when they can freely do the Ashtapad Yatra and visit this holy place.

The Journey Today

Since physically visiting Ashtapad is very difficult, many Jains observe this pilgrimage through prayers, fasting, reading of scriptures, and meditation. Some Jain temples around the world have created symbolic representations of Ashtapad so that devotees can feel connected to this sacred place.

There is also a tradition of doing the Ashtapad Yatra in the form of circumambulation (walking around) in certain temples, keeping the spirit of the yatra alive even when the physical journey is not possible.

Tips for Those Who Want to Do the Ashtapad Yatra

If you are planning or preparing for the Ashtapad Yatra, here are some simple and useful tips to keep in mind:

1. Prepare Your Body Well The Ashtapad Yatra involves travel to very high altitude areas near the Himalayas. The air is thin and the weather can be very cold. Start walking and exercising a few months before the journey. Build your stamina slowly so your body is ready for the tough terrain.

2. Consult a Doctor First Before going on this yatra, visit a doctor and get a full health check-up. High altitude journeys are not suitable for people with heart problems, breathing issues, or high blood pressure. It is better to know your health condition in advance.

3. Carry the Right Clothes The weather near Mount Kailash and the Himalayan region is very unpredictable. Always carry warm clothes, a rain jacket, strong walking shoes, and woolen socks. Layering your clothes is a good idea as the temperature can change suddenly.

4. Stay Hydrated At high altitudes, the body loses water faster than usual. Drink enough water throughout the day. Avoid cold drinks and stick to warm water or herbal tea. Staying hydrated helps avoid altitude sickness.

5. Travel in a Group It is always safer to do the Ashtapad Yatra with a group of fellow pilgrims. Travelling alone in remote mountain areas can be risky. Join a registered yatra group or an organized pilgrimage organized by a trusted Jain institution.

6. Get All Required Permits Since the yatra route passes through Tibet (China), you will need special permits and travel documents. Connect with a travel agency that has experience in organizing pilgrimages to the Kailash region. Start the paperwork process well in advance as it can take time.

7. Keep Your Mind Calm and Focused The Ashtapad Yatra is not just a physical journey — it is a spiritual one. Try to stay away from unnecessary arguments or stress during the journey. Spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading of Jain scriptures. A calm mind helps you get the true benefit of the yatra.

8. Eat Light and Simple Food During the yatra, avoid heavy or oily food. Eat simple, light meals that are easy to digest. Many pilgrims follow a strict diet during the yatra as a form of devotion. Carry dry fruits, nuts, and light snacks for the journey.

9. Respect the Holy Place When you are near or at any holy site during the Ashtapad Yatra, maintain silence and respect. Do not litter, play loud music, or behave in a way that disturbs other pilgrims. The place is sacred for millions of Jains and must be treated with care.

10. Do Spiritual Preparation Too Apart from physical preparation, do spiritual preparation before the yatra. Read about the life of Rishabhdeva, learn the significance of Ashtapad, and practice daily prayer or meditation. This will make your experience deeper and more meaningful.

11. Carry a Basic First Aid Kit Always have a small first aid kit with you. Include medicines for headache, cold, stomach upset, and altitude sickness. Ask your doctor to prescribe medicines suitable for high altitude travel.

12. If Physical Yatra Is Not Possible, Do It Symbolically If you cannot travel due to health, age, or other reasons, do not be sad. You can do the Ashtapad Yatra symbolically at a Jain temple near you. Many temples have created Ashtapad models for this purpose. Your devotion and faith matter more than the physical journey.

Conclusion

The Ashtapad Yatra is much more than a walk to a holy mountain. It is a symbol of Jain faith, devotion, and the belief in the path of liberation. Even though the journey is not easily possible today, millions of Jains around the world hold this place close to their hearts. The hope of one day completing the Ashtapad Yatra keeps the spirit of this ancient tradition alive from generation to generation.