Vallimalai Jain caves

Vallimalai Jain caves contains natural caverns that were inhabited by Digambar monks in early historic period.[1][2] The monks from Bihar used to come here during the late-maurya period. The smooth and polished beds were carved during the rule of Satavahana dynasty.[3] A total of five inscription are found[4] with one of the inscriptions dating back to 8th century.[5] The Jain carvings were created during the reign of Ganga King Rachamalla II in c. 870 CE after conquest of this region from Chola kings.[6][7][8] Vallaimalai was an important Jain center during 8th-9th century.[7]

Vallimalai is an important Jain site with several carvings of sculptures of tirthankara. The caverns is 40 by 20 feet (12.2 m × 6.1 m) with height varying between 7–10 feet (2.1–3.0 m). There is also a temple in the region which was converted to a Hindu temple.[9] The caves consist of three chambers, two of these chambers contain images of Jain tirthankar. Above this group, there are the remains of a wall, believed to have been a small fort occupied by Jains.[10] A torana is found above Jain images similar to carvings of Badami cave temples.[11]

There is an image of Ambika in sukhasana position wearing a necklace, armbands, and crown.[12] Ambika is depicted sitting on a lion with carvings of her two sons below her pedestal.[13] There is also image of Padmavati with 4 hands, holding goad and noose in upper right and left hands.[7]

These caves are protected by Archaeological Survey of India.[14] In 2014, "Ahima Walks" was organized in the region to promote the place.[8]

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• Kalugumalai Jain Beds
• Seeyamangalam