As the history reveals, Chitharal Jain Monuments were once the divine abodes of the Digamber Jain monks. Perched on the hill of Chitharal, the monuments also exhibit King Mahendravarman’s love towards the Jain religion and the sculptures. What abundantly escalates the charms of the monuments here is the cave in the hillock that contains the rock cut sculptures. The captivating sculptures of the renowned Jain Tirthankaras and the deities in service are the arch attraction and represent the rock carving skills of the sculptors.

History

Historically known as Thirucharanthupalli meaning ‘the abode of Jain monks’, the Chitharal Monuments are situated at a distance of 7 KM from Marathandom and 55 KM from Kanyakumari. These monuments are the ruins of 9th century Jain Temples and the training center for Jain monks. Highly popular among the tourists and pilgrims, the Chitharal hills are locally known as Chokhanthoongi and are declared as a protected monument by ASI.

As the history unfolds, the Chitharal Monuments were built during the rule of the Pallava King Mahendravarman I (610 – 640). As a staunch follower of Jainism, the king played a vital role in building the Jain Temples and propagating Jainism. However, the Chitharal hills were believed to have first chosen as a place of meditation by the disciples of the King Chandragupta Maurya and the Jain ascetic Badrabhahu in 298 BC. Later on, with the decline of Jainism, these Jain Temples were converted into Hindu Temples the 13th century. It is at this period that the image of Bhagavathy was installed here and came to be known as the Bhagavathy Temple.

Architectural and Natural Beauty

The Chitaral Hills present an arresting confluence of the Architectural and the Natural beauty. The cave in the hillock consists of the amazing sculptures that inspire both religious sentiments and love for artistic orientations and it exhibits the prosperous historical and devotional perspectives attracting the historians, tourists, and pilgrims alike. What further add to the charms Chitharal Hills are the panoramic view of nature from the hill top. The scenic beauty of the gently flowing hilly rivers, coconut groves, clusters of small villages, sky-kissing church spires, clouds hovering over the hills of the Western Ghat, splendid lakes, long stretching fields full of varying crops and the serene atmosphere with tranquil surroundings. Inspired by the natural beauty, the monks may have chosen it as their place of meditation, which later on turned to be a place of immense religious and historical values.

Activities

• Visiting the temple, sculptures and the mediation spaces
• Exploring the beautiful natural surroundings

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport from here is the Thiruvananthapuram Airport. It is at a distance of 45 kilometers. The buses, private taxis and cars etc are available to reach Chitharal.

By Train

The Marthandam Railway Station is about 10 kilometers away from here. The various means of transportation are easily available from the railway station to Chitharal.

By Road

The NH47 route is quite a convenient way to reach Chitharal. From Marthandam, Chitharal is 7 kms away.