Tirumalai, Ancient Jain temple complex in Tiruvannamalai district, India
Tirumalai is a rock-cut sanctuary consisting of three Jain caves, two temples, and multiple sanctuaries carved into the hillside of Tamil Nadu. The structures showcase skilled stonework with chambers of varying sizes built for different religious purposes.
The site developed over several centuries, with significant documentation from the 11th century recording a ruler's support for the sanctuary here. This inscription reveals the connections between rulers and religious institutions in the region during that period.
The caves display wall paintings showing Jain saints and celestial beings, reflecting the spiritual importance this site held for followers of the faith.
The location is accessible from nearby Polur, and a local guide can help explain the different chambers and their purposes. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore both the caves and the outer areas.
The sanctuary houses a roughly 5-meter tall sculpture of a Jain saint that visitors often overlook on first viewing. This figure ranks among the region's largest religious sculptures and merits close observation.
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