Ashtapad: The Revered Pilgrimage Site For Jains

Ashtapad is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Jain tradition. Located near the sacred Mount Kailash in Tibet, it is closely associated with Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, who is believed to have attained moksha here.

For Jain devotees, Ashtapad represents liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Jain religious traditions also associate the site with a magnificent temple built by Emperor Bharata Chakravarti in honour of his father, Rishabhdev.

Although direct access to Ashtapad is restricted, its religious importance continues to inspire Jain pilgrims. Many devotees include Mount Kailash in their spiritual journeys and pay their respects to Ashtapad from an accessible viewpoint, where permitted.

This guide covers the meaning of Ashtapad, its history, religious significance, location, present-day darshan options, and replicas that devotees can visit.