Home › Destinations › Palitana › Jain Philosophy Guide

Jain Philosophy Guide

Summary

•Palitana, in Gujarat, India, is one of Jainism's holiest pilgrimage sites, home to the world's largest cluster of Jain temples atop Shatrunjaya Hill.
•This guide introduces core Jain philosophy—ahimsa (non-violence) and the Tirthankaras—and explains how these principles shape the pilgrimage experience, including the city's vegetarianism and practical tips for visitors.

•Palitana's Shatrunjaya Hill, meaning 'Hill of Victory,' rises above the town and is crowned by an extraordinary complex of over 900 marble temples and shrines (some counts exceed 3,000).
•This sacred site is one of the five holiest Jain pilgrimage destinations (Panch Tirtha), dedicated primarily to Adinatha (Rishabhanatha), the first Tirthankara, though many other Tirthankaras are honored here.
•The temples were built and rebuilt over roughly 900 years, from the 11th century onward, by generations of wealthy Jain patrons, resulting in a sprawling web of interconnected temple clusters known as 'tuks.' Pilgrims climb about 3,500–3,800 stone steps over 3.5 kilometers—a journey taking 2–4 hours—to reach the summit, where the main temple to Adinatha stands at the highest point.
•The sanctity of the hill is such that no one, not even priests, may stay overnight; the temples open at sunrise and close by early afternoon.
•Palitana is not merely a visual marvel but a living expression of Jain ideals, especially ahimsa and the veneration of enlightened beings who have shown the path to liberation.

Start your climb early—ideally at sunrise—to allow time to explore the vast temple complex before it closes in the early afternoon; also, the morning light on the marble is stunning.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the roughly 3,500–3,800 stone steps; if you are unable to climb, hire a doli (palanquin) carried by porters—a common and respectful option.
Respect the sanctity of the hill by not carrying leather items, eating meat, or bringing any non-vegetarian food; also, be mindful of your words and actions to honor ahimsa.
Carry water and light snacks, but remember that no overnight stay is permitted on the hill—plan to descend by late afternoon, as even the priests leave each evening.