The Chitharal Jain Monuments and Bhagavati Temple, located near Chitharal village in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, are significant historical sites. Known as Chitharal Malai Kovil, these monuments include stone beds with inscriptions and two main structures: a rock-cut Jain temple featuring intricate outer wall reliefs and a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavati. Dating back to the 9th century CE, these monuments reflect the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Situated about 55 kilometers northwest of Kanyakumari and northeast of Kuzhittura town, the Chitharal monuments are perched on the Thiruchanattu Malai hills. Visitors can access the site via rough-hewn steps surrounded by lush cashew, coconut, and rubber trees. The entrance is well-marked and managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), allowing easy access for those interested in exploring these ancient structures.
The history of the Chitharal site spans several centuries, with inscriptions suggesting activity from the 1st millennium CE. The Jain beds, among the earliest in southern India, date from the 1st century BCE to the 6th century CE, while the main Jain temple was constructed in the 9th century. This temple features sanctums dedicated to Jain iconography, including Parsvanatha, Mahavira, and Padmavati, showcasing the influence of Jainism in the region.
Despite periods of neglect, the Bhagavati temple remains a vital worship site for local Hindus. Archaeological efforts have restored and cleaned various parts of the site, enhancing its structural integrity. A natural heart-shaped pond below the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding farmlands, making this area not only a historical treasure but also a picturesque destination for visitors and devotees alike.