Sittanavasal

Jaina cave temple

The rock-cut Jaina cave at Sittanavasal dates from the 8th century. It has later been provided with a structural porch in stone. The ceiling of the porch bears elaborate paintings which also cover the pillars inside. Depicted are a samavasaraṇa and a lotus lake, painted in vibrant colours. The shallow porch gives way to only one sanctum housing the three seated Jinas Śantinātha, Kunthunātha and Aranātha.

Way up to the Jaina cave temple © Julia A.B. Hegewald

Porch of the Jaina cave temple © Julia A.B. Hegewald

Image of Mahāvīra in the porch (left end) © Julia A.B. Hegewald

Jaina cave with rock beds (Eladipattam Cave)

The second-century BCE Jaina cave at the summit of the sacred hill at Sittanavasal is protected by a natural overhanging rock. It bears a Brahmi inscription. Inside the cave are austere rock beds, also known as 'polished beds' which have stone pillows.