Chitharal Rock Jain Temple ( Malaikovil) image

Chitharal Rock Jain Temple ( Malaikovil)

Tourist attraction Jain temple

One of the Best Places To Visits in Melpuram


Address

86JQ+W9V, Vellamcode, Tamil Nadu 629151, India

Contact

+91 1800 4253 1111

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (2.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Monday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: temple (59) Jain (43) Chitharal (24) view (23) Temple (23) parking (17) India (15) Rock (14) time (13) rock (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Shijin S. 2 years ago on Google
    Short trekking spot. Well maintained and neat surroundings. No entry fees. Amazing view of the entire town from here. Calm and peacefull atmosphere. Not so crowded. Open on all days except monday. Jain monuments of 8th century and inscriptions are quiet eye catching for those who loves historical things. NB: please do not write anything on the walls and trees.its our responsibility to keep these monuments as such.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maitreya M. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place. Old Jain and Buddhist temples. Well preserved. The way is nicely built by rocks. Recommended for tourists. But unfortunately like all Buddhist and Jain temples, this also is invaded by Hindu tribes. They have forcibly placed a devi statue inside the Jain temple and now pretend it to be a living Hindu temple. This same people will claim Islam invaded their temples. This is under archeological department but such vandalism is allowed, what a shame!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Swarna R. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and calm hilltop jain temple that gives amazing view of the nearby marthandam town. Takes time and energy to climb up the slope to reach the top, but the view was well worth it. Serene place to spend the evenings. Entry is free for all. Dedicated parking space available, where they charge ₹5 for two wheelers.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anoop K. 1 year ago on Google
    Monument under archelogical survey of India. parking space is there at entry point. for bike it's 5 rs, for other vehicles 40 rs. No entry fee. walk 1 km up to the top. The walkway is greatly constructed. Stone benches are there along the route for a rest. no shops above. take water or food in advance .dont pollute the environment. The rock temple is literally wonderful. nearby rocks will be slippery during rainy season. so be careful while climbing there. A small pond is there here. wide view of marthandam town western ghats at the top. Reach the down gate before 5pm, otherwise u will forced to jump the gate. Sunrise and evening time till 4 pm will be d best time here to spend. Entry time 8am to 4pm.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Krishna R. 9 months ago on Google • 29 reviews
    This is pretty simple, But the travelling experience like walking in the stairs upward to the temple with friends was a great experience. And while going towards temple we can have great view on the Mountain rocks near by but be careful on your concern and you can go onto the temple and it has pond in front area which all are naturally made. Such a unique place
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vishnu S. 2 years ago on Google
    Very serene peaceful and beautiful place. If you are a person who loves the combination of heavy rustic silence of history & cool breeze, this feels like heaven. Well maintained facility. Opens at 8am and last entry is at 5pm. We went at 8am and spent time till 10:30. Sunset time is best for photography lighting as it lits up the temple by then. The ascend of 900 meters is a bit tiring if you are not physically active. It takes below 30 mins to ascend with breaks. But don't worry, lots of resting benches available. Ensure to bring atleast 1L water per person. So take breaks and go if you pant too much. Paved way with badam shades. As of 20/01/2022, food packets not allowed in. Water allowed. Rs.40 parking fee. Ample car parking space. Basic toilet available near parking (not clean, but you gotta adjust the Indian way). Some local snack shops opened near parking. The only sad thing is the ugly graffiti done by our 'responsible' youth on this archeologically protected structure. So please respect the history and help keep its sanctity.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nitin R V. 2 years ago on Google
    Open now amidst of covid times. It's been always calming to go to Jain temples, been to a few in the country. The Chithral Rock Jain Temple is currently managed by the Archeological Survey of India. From the parking, there is a 1.1km wall to the Rock Temple. There is a parking fee for the vehicles, No entry fee. The temple area is so calming that you are up in the height that an eagle flying. The climb area has stone benches to rest. It's been said that the sunrise here is great. The place closes at 5pm.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Binshad P B. 1 year ago on Google
    Visited during monsoon. It's a beautiful place. I think very few people visit here as it's a long walk up the hill. The view is mesmerizing from the top. A positive vibe all around. One should be careful while walking on the rocks during rainy days.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gayesh Kumar Jose J. 6 months ago on Google • 89 reviews
    Good place for relaxation... You have to walk a short distance from the bottom to reach the Jain temple. There is a wide paved road leading to the temple. There are shade trees above. A very beautiful view can be enjoyed from the top. It is possible to walk on all sides of the temple. There is a pool right there and beyond that there is a wide rock and a very scenic view. Many people choose this place for photo shoot. Evenings are the best time to travel, when the heat of the sun is less and there is a good breeze. The site is maintained by the Central Government Department of Archaeology. I loved this place

  • 5/5 Basil S. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful hill top place. Vehicles are to be parked in the parking lot in the foothills. You will need to climb up to the Jain Temple through the paved path. Frequent resting seats are also provided alongside the path. Can be climbed by anyone who is capable of doing moderate exercise. Pregnant women or elders may also climb up taking enough intermittent rests. Safe for family. Rs 40 will be collected at the parking( June 2023).
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 SHIJIN R S. 2 years ago on Google
    Aim for the sky, but enjoy every step of the way and move slowly. All those little steps complete the journey. The journey is a reward, so the Chitaral Jain Temple is a beautiful and serene hilltop Jain temple that offers a stunning view of the nearby town of Marthandam. It takes time and energy to climb the slope to get to the top, but the view was worth it. The atmosphere around the temple is very peaceful and this is the atmosphere that makes it a favorite destination of any traveler. It is a beautiful Jain temple with old structures that stand proudly on top of the rock formations.It is a remnant of time. This is a must visit place for any history buff or traveler.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mohamed E. 2 years ago on Google
    Chitharal is located about 45 kilometers away from kanniyakumari. It is famous for the Rock-cut temple. Hillock  at Chitharal has a cave containing Rock-cut  sculptures of Thirthankaras and attendent  deities carved inside and outside dating back to 9th Century A.D. King Mahendra Varman I was responsible for the Jainism influence in this region.  It was converted into Bagavathy Temple in the 13th Century A.D. Cars and Vans can go upto the foot of   the hill. One has to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple. The Jain images have been preserved by the Central Archeological Survey of India. It comes under Vellankode panchayat
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 saikat c. 3 years ago on Google
    Moderate hike. If you do not have an active lifestyle the hike is bound to bother you. Only a few things to be seen at the summit. But it was a good experience. Apply sunblock, put your caps/hats and shades and don't forget to carry water. You will need it during the trip. The hike is quite enjoyable if you are accompanied by friends. Keep aside 2 hrs for this outing.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 M V. 5 months ago on Google • 78 reviews
    Best place to visit for getting trekking and seeing the city's view from the top with windy. If you are lucky will experience the cloud burst in the monsoon season. Bring umbrella. Parking is available. Enjoy sarbath in the shop near by. You have to enter visiting person details while you enter. Note: it is not advisable for aged people to climb this place. There is no continuous steps for climbing instead surface is long flat and with small elevation. Estimated distance : 1 km

  • 5/5 FAF Amaze W. 2 years ago on Google
    Great view, Most lovable place in marthandam. Their is no security or gaurd. Only one person to monitor the place. No cammera but lots of 🐓Guys. No girls are advised to go alone . Try to go with boy friends, brothers, or parents.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 PounRaj 2 years ago on Google
    Chitharal is located about 45 kilometers away from kanniyakumari. It is famous for the Rock-cut temple. Hillock  at Chitharal has a cave containing Rock-cut  sculptures of Thirthankaras and attendent  deities carved inside and outside dating back to 9th Century A.D. King Mahendra Varman I was responsible for the Jainism influence in this region.  It was converted into Bagavathy Temple in the 13th Century A.D. Cars and Vans can go upto the foot of   the hill. One has to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple. The Jain images have been preserved by the Central Archeological Survey of India. It comes under Vellankode panchayat.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Abhiram A. 1 year ago on Google
    I am very happy to go here, Wonderful temple, very calm atmosphere and surrounding.The temple is at the top of the hill.To reach the top of the hill through there are steps. We can relaxly climb the hill throgh the steps. From the hill we get a beautiful view. Way to the temple is very clean preserved. Wonderful place to visit with your family and friends
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ram V. 2 months ago on Google • 44 reviews New
    Jain temple is situated at the top most point of the mountain 👍Plastic free campus 😁 food products are not allowed to be carried The respective departments do their work properly and sincerely. Jain temples were maintained properly, Free to visit 😉 My only opinion is to provide drinking water.. because there are too many steps to travel at the top (plastic is also not allowed) (Management allows your own water bottles) Usually we don't carry that kind of products

  • 5/5 joicey j. 3 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    It is one of the best places to spend your time. You needed to take a ticket before entering this area. Have tobtake some food and water with you. This place has a pond, mountain view, and a lot of space to sit peacefully. Perfect place for sit alone and spend quality time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nandu S. 2 months ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    📌First of All there is ticket fee for parking Also bring "water🧴"and " umbrella☂️" 📌About the experience it is marvellous 📌The rock is a historical piece of art and religious⛰️ 📌The important thing is The view from the rocks 😍😍😍 📌I only visited once but it is ton of experience 📌Its a photoshoot destination also 📸
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 20 cse 1093 K. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice vintage view, one of the best local rocks temple , one could really feel peace vibe✨🌈🦋🌼
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jestin W. 1 year ago on Google
    Very old and traditional Jain temple in Tamilnadu. The place is very well maintained, very good ambiance and peaceful environment! The refreshment rooms and toilets in the parking area is not functional there is no staff to maintain that. You have to pay parking fee to the local people who are managing the parking there. You have to walk some more distance to reach the temple from parking, the road is nice for walking but you need to carry water and all since the temple situated at top of a hill, so take rest on the stone benches are placed on walkways and climb hill safely. You will get a very wide view of that area from the temple, also you can experience the architectural beauty of old construction using stone. The climate on top is very good.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anand S. 7 months ago on Google
    There is about a km long slope to climb. Easy to walk. The temple is peaceful and quiet. Good for spending the evening.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 sujil s. 11 months ago on Google
    Chitharal Rock Jain Temple is an ancient temple located in the district of Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, who is the 23rd Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is situated on top of a rocky hill and is also known as the Malaikovil. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and carvings, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of Jainism. Visitors can see various sculptures and inscriptions related to Jainism at the temple. The temple is also surrounded by lush greenery, making it a serene and peaceful place to visit. The Chitharal Rock Jain Temple is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world who come to witness the beauty and architecture of the temple. The temple is open to visitors every day from morning till evening, and there is no entry fee. Overall, the Chitharal Rock Jain Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jainism, history, and architecture. It offers a unique experience and provides visitors with an insight into the rich cultural heritage of India.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shaji I. 2 years ago on Google
    A satisfying hike, a brilliant view from atop with the time tested hand-carved temple. This lesser known attraction is a must visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ananthan M L. 4 months ago on Google • 28 reviews
    Chitharal Jain Temple, also known as Chitharal Malai Kovil or Jain Monuments, is praised for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Visitors often appreciate the serene atmosphere and the well-preserved sculptures depicting Jain teachings.

  • 4/5 Syam K. 5 months ago on Google • 23 reviews
    The Chitharal Jain Monuments and Bhagavati Temple, also known as Chitharal Malai Kovil (literally "Temple on the Hill"), Chitaral Cave Temple or Bhagavati Temple, are located near Chitharal village in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, India. They consist of stone beds with inscriptions, and two monuments – one rock cut Jain temple with outer wall reliefs and one Hindu goddess temple next to it that is a combination of rock-cut and stone that was added during the reign of Vikramaditya Varaguna Pandya. The monuments are from the 9th century CE.

  • 4/5 Noor M. 3 months ago on Google • 3 reviews New
    Its a peaceful and worthy of visiting there. Being connected with the nature every where best cardio on the trip. Had to climb some minutes but you will have a wonderful view there

  • 4/5 Jayaprakash P. 7 months ago on Google
    One of the interesting places to visit in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu. It's 1 KM walkable distance from the road. Please watch the entry point to the rock, Google maps may mislead you to the end of the rock. Instead of entry point☝️ You can park your vehicle on the side of the road. No special parking space. There is also an entry fee here. The way to the top of the rock is paved with small stones and trees beautifully. Anyone can walk to the top but it makes some effort 😔. Always bring water with you, there is no way to get water on the top. You will become thirsty 😀 The rock is small and build side of the rock using rocks stone 🪨. The most beautiful thing is the view on top. There are heavy winds which will fly away you 🤯 watch children carefully.

  • 4/5 velpandi s. 10 months ago on Google
    Chitharal Rock Jain Temple, also known as Malaikovil, is a significant religious site located in Chitharal village in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is renowned for its ancient Jain rock-cut cave shrines and stone sculptures that showcase the rich heritage and history of Jainism in the region. Let's delve into the history of this remarkable temple. The origins of Chitharal Rock Jain Temple can be traced back to the 9th century during the reign of the Pandya dynasty in South India. The temple was built by the Pandya kings, who were known for their patronage of Jainism. The rock-cut caves and sculptures were carved into a massive granite hill, making it an architectural marvel of its time. Chitharal Rock Jain Temple served as a major center for Jain worship and religious activities during the medieval period. It attracted Jain ascetics, scholars, and devotees from various parts of the region, contributing to the propagation of Jain philosophy and practices. The temple complex also became a site for religious discourses and learning, playing a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of Jain scriptures and teachings. The temple complex features several notable structures. The most prominent among them are the rock-cut caves, which house beautifully carved sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders). The intricate detailing and craftsmanship of these sculptures are a testament to the skill and artistry of the artisans of that era. The cave shrines were used for meditation, prayer, and rituals by Jain monks and devotees. One of the significant attractions of the Chitharal Rock Jain Temple is the 17-foot-tall statue of Bhagavan Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism. This monolithic statue is believed to date back to the 9th century and is considered an extraordinary artistic and architectural achievement. The serene and majestic presence of the statue adds to the spiritual ambiance of the temple. Over the centuries, Chitharal Rock Jain Temple underwent periods of neglect and disrepair. However, concerted efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and local authorities have helped in its restoration and conservation. The temple complex is now recognized as a protected monument, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, Chitharal Rock Jain Temple stands as a testament to the rich Jain heritage of Tamil Nadu. It attracts tourists, scholars, and devotees who are captivated by its historical significance, architectural splendor, and spiritual ambiance. The temple serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Jainism and its contribution to the cultural tapestry of India. Visiting Chitharal Rock Jain Temple provides an opportunity to explore the fascinating history, experience the serene atmosphere, and appreciate the remarkable artistry of the ancient craftsmen. It remains an important pilgrimage site for Jains and a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in the religious and cultural heritage of South India. Chitharal Rock Jain Temple, also known as Malaikovil, is located in the village of Chitharal, which is situated in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the town of Marthandam and around 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of mainland India. It is easily accessible by road and can be reached by hiring local transportation or driving from nearby cities and towns. The exact address of the temple is: Chitharal Rock Jain Temple (Malaikovil), Chitharal Village, Marthandam Taluk, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India. Visitors to the temple can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside, as the temple is nestled amidst lush greenery and offers panoramic views of the natural landscape

  • 5/5 Muhammed Z. 10 months ago on Google
    If you want to go somewhere on weekend, this is a best place to visit. It only takes a half day to visit. We took a train and local bus to reach the destination. We have reached there by morning. It was so beautiful out there. Apart from the temple the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking.

  • 5/5 Richa Naja J. 2 years ago on Google
    Tranquil, quiet place up at hill... short trek, amazing sunrise view and beautiful rock cut Jain temple, If u want to visit Jain temple for prayer inside, the temple remains open till 11AM, going early morning is suggested. Must visit place, if u are in Trivandrum or visiting Kanyakumari by road.

  • 4/5 KLQR Just N. 1 year ago on Google
    😲 Wow, 🪨 temple is amazing. Loved it, Wish to explore a dawn there,i mean ⛺ 🎪.Apart from ASI,Local Self Government collects Parking fee,Also they can provide some Prasad( sweets) or water there,bcoz i missed that there,some traditional vows/feels.

  • 5/5 Aravind D. 2 years ago on Google
    Good place to spend an evening as you climb the rock and sit there for a while you feel very relaxed and quiet. The spot is around 45kms from Trivandrum and is easily reachable with the help of google maps. Once you reach, u can find ample space for parking. Then you have to walk a little around 1km, and it is little steep. So avoid the timings from 11am-2pm, as the sun can burn you up. Normally it isn't a crowded place. But some local guys will be roaming there. You can enjoy with friends and family. Best timing are mng and evening.

  • 5/5 Sujinraj 2 years ago on Google
    Great View, Best Place For Photo Shoot This is one of the must seen place in chitharal near in marthandam

  • 5/5 ABSAL D. 2 years ago on Google
    Pleasant and calm atmosphere... Most enjoyable at evenings and early mornings... No strict conditions... Please don't litter🙂

  • 5/5 Jayakrishnan A. 6 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Beautiful rock cut made temple. Fantastic ambience. Nice view from all angles. Don't miss to see all side. Two ponds are there. One in front of temple other one is opposite
    2 people found this review helpful 👍


Call +91 1800 4253 1111 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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