Wednesday, August 26, 2009

JAIN TEMPLE


Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple : This Temple is one of the most important amongst a series of ruins spread across the state of Kerala that testify to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region. Believed to have been built in the 13th century, it served as a Hindu shrine, an important centre for commercial activity and eventually as a battery (ammunition store) for Tipu Sulthan's marching armies. Apart from this temple, there are other significant jain remnants in Wayanad. The temples at Punchavayal and Puthenangadi are the best known of these. With their beautifully carved pillars now partly ruined, and the area rather derelict, these sites exude a peculiar airomystery. The temple is 24 Kms. away from kalpetta, 12 Kms. away from Sulthan Bathery and 41 Kms. away from Mananthavady.

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