Chitharal Jain Monuments

Chitharal Jain Monuments is a 9th-century Jain heritage site located on Thirucharanathu Malai hillock near Chitharal village in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, it features rock-cut sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras, inscriptions, and a natural cavern. A Hindu Bhagavati Temple at the summit reflects later reuse. The hilltop site is notable for its archaeological, religious and scenic value.

Visitors can expect a short climb of about 150-200 stone steps to a rocky hilltop with panoramic views of surrounding fields and villages. At the top are rock-cut Jain Tirthankara images carved into the cliff face, Jain inscriptions, a natural rock shelter with stone beds, and a small Bhagavati Temple built around the Jain remains. The site is quiet and exposed, with boulders, sparse vegetation and open rock surfaces to explore on foot.