Mysterious Mountain Temple

Chitharal Temple Mount, also known as Thirucharanathu Temple or Jain Monuments, is a historical and spiritual site located in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is considered to be a mysterious place after 7 pm in the night.

This ancient temple complex is believed to be one of the oldest Jain pilgrimage centers in the country, and its beautiful architecture and breathtaking natural surroundings make it a popular tourist destination.

The Chitharal Temple Mount is located on a rocky hilltop about 7 kilometers from the town of Marthandam. The site covers an area of around 2 acres and is surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque hills. The temple complex is believed to have been built in the 9th century AD, during the reign of the Pandya dynasty, and is dedicated to Lord Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara of the Jain religion.

The main attraction of the Chitharal Temple Mount is the Jain rock-cut cave temple, which is situated on the southern side of the hill. The temple is carved out of a single large rock and features beautiful sculptures of various Jain deities and other mythological figures. The temple also has several small chambers and alcoves that were used as meditation cells by the Jain monks who lived here centuries ago.

The temple complex also has a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is believed to have been added to the site during the reign of the Chola dynasty. The shrine features a beautiful lingam, which is a symbol of Lord Shiva, and is believed to have been installed by the legendary sage Agastya.

Apart from the rock-cut temple and the Shiva shrine, the Chitharal Temple Mount also has several other interesting structures and features, including a large stepped pond, a cave with a natural spring, and several smaller shrines and temples. One of the most interesting features of the site is the large number of inscriptions that have been found here, which provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the region.

The Chitharal Temple Mount has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years. The site was originally a Jain monastery, and it is believed that thousands of Jain monks lived and meditated here over the centuries. The site was also an important center of trade and commerce, and it played a key role in the spread of Jainism and other religions in southern India.

The temple complex has been the subject of numerous excavations and restoration efforts over the years, and many of the structures and features that can be seen today have been reconstructed or renovated. Despite this, the site still retains much of its original beauty and charm, and it continues to be a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Chitharal Temple Mount is its unique blend of Jain and Hindu architecture and iconography. The rock-cut temple, for example, features several beautiful sculptures of Jain deities, including Lord Rishabhadeva, Lord Mahavira, and Lord Parsvanatha. However, the temple also has several sculptures and carvings that depict Hindu deities and mythological figures, such as Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu.

This unique blend of Jain and Hindu influences is a reflection of the rich cultural and religious diversity of southern India. Over the centuries, many different religions and faiths have coexisted and interacted in this region, and the Chitharal Temple Mount is a testament to the rich and complex history of this part of the world. It is said to be believed that there are mysterious sounds often heard by the travelers who visit that place during afternoon. The guard of that area mentions that is the cry of the ancient souls looking for peace..

The Chitharal Temple Mount is not just a religious site, but also a natural wonder. The hill on which the temple complex is situated offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and the area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors to the site can enjoy a peaceful time until they hear weird voices.