Siddhachalam Jain Tirth — Attraction in Blairstown

A seeker who later became a pastor in my locale went to Siddhachalam in the summer of 1992. He wanted to experience firsthand how non-violence worked.

He politely declined to refer to Sushil Kumar as "His Holiness," as he did not think any human being is holier than any other. It was also his understanding that Jains were supposed to be tolerant of different viewpoints.

When Kumar learned of this, he had one of his henchmen by the name of "Babbah" (who informed the seeker that he was a UN representative) have the seeker removed from the ashram. The seeker was falsely told that many Jains were expected to arrive and that there wouldn't be room for non-Jains (even though the seeker traveled a great distance to go there).

The seeker concluded in disgust that Jains were not really non-violent or tolerant. He realized that Jains are wealthy and influential elitists who have others, such as police officers and soldiers, commit the violence for them.

In 1994, the seeker went to a local park, found a frog, and killed it in order to defy Kumar's false values. Because it was his first time committing such an act, he didn't know what he was doing; and he inadvertently tortured the frog. Kumar died in severe pain around that time. Many familiar with the events see God's hand in the...

Spread across 120 acres of land in NJ, this place is expansive with multiple temples, gardens, and open spaces for meditation, providing a serene environment for visitors and devotees.

We went to this place on a weekday in the morning, and we were the only people on the premises. It is very safe, surrounded by lush green trees, beautiful architecture (tonks) dedicated to their Tirthankars.

I loved how beautiful the main temples are, and you will walk a total distance of approx 2-3 miles to see all 26 tonks (shrines) at this tirth. The terrain is generally accessible for people of all ages.

We even saw a separate place for peacocks 🦚 and peahens nestled near the main temple. The owners have been very mindful of everything, including facilities for flora and fauna.

There is a separate cafeteria that serves tea and snacks everyday, on weekends, they also serve lunch.

This place plays a significant role is preserving the Jain heritage and providing a space for worship to the community. If you are in the area, do visit...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A peaceful spiritual retreat nestled in nature

Siddhachalam Jain Tirth is a hidden gem in New Jersey. Whether you’re looking to pray, meditate in silence, or simply walk through nature and reflect, this place has it all. The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful, and the walking paths through the wooded areas are perfect for quiet contemplation.

There are multiple spots across the property for darshan and prayer, and each one feels thoughtfully maintained and serene. If you’re planning to visit, I highly recommend calling ahead—they can prepare simple Jain meals for you with advance notice.

The presence of peacocks and other wildlife adds to the beauty and calm of the surroundings. It truly feels like a spiritual sanctuary in the middle of nature.

Don’t forget to make a donation while you’re there. It helps keep this sacred place open and welcoming...