Ambapuram cave temple, Ancient Jain cave temple near Vijayawada, India
Ambapuram cave temple is a rock-cut Jain sanctuary near Vijayawada with three main sections: a verandah, a transitional chamber, and an inner sanctum containing detailed religious sculptures. The entire structure is carved directly from the stone and showcases how craftspeople worked the spaces and decorative elements from the natural rock face itself.
This sanctuary dates to the 7th century during Eastern Chalukya rule, when Jainism gained prominence across southern India. This era saw active stone-carving work that left behind many similar temples, creating a lasting religious and artistic legacy throughout the region.
The temple walls display intricate carvings of Mahavira seated in lotus position and Parshvanatha sheltered by a five-hooded serpent, showing key figures in Jain spirituality. These sculptures remain active focal points for worship and reflection, connecting visitors to beliefs held here for over 1,000 years.
The sanctuary sits off the main road and can be reached by two routes, from Vijayawada-Nunna or from the dairy facility near Adavi Nekkalam. Having a local guide or planning your route beforehand helps, as signposting is limited in the area.
The sanctuary houses a rare rock-cut miniature Jain stupa that local people often mistake for a Shiva Linga. This confusion arises because both structures share a similar outer form, even though they hold entirely different spiritual meanings.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
