Chitharal Jain Monuments

A natural cavern formed by hanging rock, bas-relief images of Jain Tirthankars is Chitharal Jain Temples. The figures of Parshwanatha, Padmavatiseated, and Yaksha in an Ardha-Padmasana pose in each niche is there along with other 24 Tirthankaras. In the left corner, there are three Tirthankara figures in one. There is a female figure of Ambika in a niche. Based on the inscription, it is known that the site was under control of Jains at least till the middle of the 13th century.The entrance of the monuments is narrow. On the hilltop, there is a temple in a cave, a verandah and a Balipeetham with a kitchen that is carved into a naturally extended west-facing rock. It has three sanctums that enclose the Tirthankara in the middle, a goddess in the right and Parshwanatha on the left. The temple was built in the medieval period. There is another temple-like structure called Vimana on the hilltop which can be reached by climbing a few steps. At a few steps downwards there is a natural pond. The cave temple was converted into the Hindu temple of Bhagavati in the 13th century. It is known by the ancient Tamil script inscription on the entrance which says Narayanan, Tamil Appalla Varaiyan of Rajavallapuram in the Kil Vembanadu funded for the construction of Bhagavati temple. Come and visit this unique place with family and friends.