Menu
My Account
By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Samanar Hills, Madurai
ABOUT
Samanar Hills or Samanar Malai is a small hillock that can be reached through a beautiful, scenic trek. Translated to 'Jain Hill' in Tamil, this archeological treasure lies on the opposite side of the Nagamalai Hill and is home to prehistoric caves and carvings dating back to around 1 A.D where Tamil Jain monks lived. Several Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, stone beds and sculptures found here demonstrates the strong influence of Jainism on the ancient Tamil society through. Settipodavu and Pechipallam are the two famous figurines that the hill exhibits. It shows images of Jain Tirthankaras created by Jain monks. Various sculptures of Mahavira, Bahubali, Gomateshwara, Yaksha and Yakshi with Brahmi inscriptions can be seen at the entrance of the cave and different points in the vicinity of the cave. Archaeologists have also found evidence of the existence of a Jain school, considering the vast depths of knowledge that these historical artifacts symbolize. On the top of the hillock, there are naturally formed rocks that resemble the shape of a crocodile.
