sitharal jain monuments

Chitharal Jain Monuments

 The historical ruins of Chitharal Jain Monuments stand as vestiges of Jain settlements in Chitharal – a small hamlet in Kanyakumari. Earlier, the place was known as Thirucharanathupalli, which served as the serene abode of several Digambar Jain monks. The reason behind the Jain influence in this part of the state was Pallava King Mahendravarman I, who was a follower of Jainism. The king was famed for leading many such constructions, particularly rock-cut sculptures in cave temples.


The village is popular for a cave atop a hillock that features rock-cut images of attendant deities and Jain Tirthankaras. These carvings date back to the 9th century and are considered archaeologically significant. Amongst several exquisite rock-cut sculptures found in the cave, the prominent one is an image of Goddess Dharmadevi. The cave was converted into a goddess temple during the 13th century. At present, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has included it in the list of protected monuments.