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.
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Way up to the Jaina cave temple
© Julia A.B. Hegewald
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Porch of the Jaina cave temple
© Julia A.B. Hegewald
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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.
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Way to the cave with rock beds
© Julia A.B. Hegewald
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Cave with rock beds and terrace in front
© Julia A.B. Hegewald
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Rock beds inside the cave
© Julia A.B. Hegewald