About Ashtapad
Ashtapad is an important tirtha (pilgrimage site) in Jainism, deeply rooted in both scriptural references and oral tradition. It is believed that a grand crystal-like mountain with eight terraces once stood near Mount Kailash, where King Bharata, the son of Lord Rishabhdev, built a bejewelled temple to commemorate his father’s liberation.
Location and Setting
- Traditional Belief: Located close to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture.
- Symbolic Significance: The “eight steps” represent progressive stages towards spiritual enlightenment.
- Geographic Context: Part of the sacred Himalayan landscape shared by Hinduism, Buddhism, Bon, and Jainism.
While modern expeditions have not confirmed a visible eight-stepped structure, the symbolic association with the Kailash region remains central to Jain cosmology.
Religious and Cultural Significance
For Jains, Ashtapad is second only to Shatrunjaya and Sammed Shikharji in sanctity.
- Believed to be the site of Lord Rishabhdev’s moksha (final liberation).
- Mentioned in Kalpa Sutra and other Jain scriptures as a place where gods themselves descend to offer homage.
- Serves as a meditative symbol of detachment and ascension in Jain philosophical thought.
The site also holds interfaith significance due to its proximity to Mount Kailash, which is sacred in multiple traditions.
Historical Insights and Evidence
- Scriptural Sources: Kalpa Sutra, Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charitra, and commentaries from Jain acharyas describe Ashtapad as a shining mountain adorned with precious stones.
- Pilgrimage Records: Historical accounts from Jain monks in the medieval period mention long expeditions towards Tibet to view the sacred site, although physical access was extremely rare.
- Modern Theories: Some scholars suggest the “eight steps” may refer to symbolic spiritual stages rather than a literal mountain formation.
Pilgrimage and Travel
Reaching Ashtapad has always been a challenge due to its high-altitude Himalayan location and political restrictions in Tibet.
- Route: Pilgrims typically travel via Nepal to reach Kailash Mansarovar and then mentally or ritually pay homage to Ashtapad.
- Current Access: Physical visits are not currently permitted by Chinese authorities; devotion is expressed through symbolic rituals and temple representations in India.
Visual Experience
Artists and temples often depict Ashtapad as a gleaming white mountain with eight broad terraces, surrounded by celestial beings. These representations are inspired by scriptural descriptions and are common in Jain temple architecture in India.
Climate Context
While inaccessible, the surrounding Kailash region’s climate offers insights:
- Best Viewing Season: May to September (clearer weather for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra).
- Conditions: Cold alpine climate with thin air and unpredictable winds.
Practical Information for Devotees
- Alternative Sites: Replica temples of Ashtapad can be found in Palitana (Gujarat) and Hastinapur (Uttar Pradesh).
- Spiritual Observances: Many Jains undertake tirtha yatra to symbolic Ashtapad sites if they cannot travel to Tibet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Ashtapad” mean?
“Eight steps” in Sanskrit, symbolising stages to liberation.
Who attained Nirvana at Ashtapad?
Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara in Jainism.
Can pilgrims visit Ashtapad in Tibet today?
No, physical access is restricted; devotees honour it symbolically.
