Samanar Hills 🇮🇳

Located just 10 kilometers west of Madurai near Vadivelkari village, the Samanar Hills (also known as Samanar Malai or Melmalai) offer an intriguing look into ancient Indian history. Stretching over three kilometers, this protected Archaeological Survey of India monument is filled with historic Jain and Hindu rock-cut monuments, reliefs, and centuries-old Tamil-Brahmi and Vatteluttu inscriptions dating between the 2nd century BCE and 12th century CE.

When you visit, you can explore two main Jain monument clusters on the hill slopes. At the easily accessible Settipodavu site, a short climb brings you to a natural cave featuring a large seated Tirthankara relief (believed to be Mahavira) alongside detailed carvings of goddess Ambika Devi riding a lion and goddess Padmavati Devi.

On the eastern slope at the Pechchipallam site, you will see a striking row of eight Jaina reliefs, including depictions of Parsvanatha, Bahubali, and the half-snake, half-human yaksha Dharanendra. Beyond the ancient carvings, you can spot a solitary stone lamp post at the hill's summit, surviving temple foundation platforms, an Ayyanar Karuppanasamy temple, and a scenic lotus pond situated right at the foothills.

What to see at Samanar Hills

• 10th-century natural cave reliefs of Mahavira, Ambika Devi, and Padmavati Devi at Settipodavu
• Row of eight Jaina reliefs featuring Parsvanatha, Bahubali, and rare Dharanendra iconography at Pechchipallam
• Historic Vatteluttu, Tamil-Brahmi, and Kannada inscriptions dating up to the 12th century CE
• Summit stone lamp post and surviving ruined temple platforms
• Ayyanar Karuppanasamy folk deity temple and lotus pond nestled at the foothills

Visiting tips

Take the short walk up the southwestern slope to visit Settipodavu first, as it is the most easily accessible site on the hills.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Samanar Hills is easy to reach on Madurai’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Kazimar Big Mosque and Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Madurai travel guide.