930AM- Fly from Chennai 11AM- Arrive in Trichy Noon-We visit Sittanavasal Cave dating back to the 2nd century. These caves were built for monks of the Jain faith. We will explore this rock-cut monastery which houses spectacular murals made out of vegetable and mineral dyes. The exquisite ceiling of the cave is decorated with murals from the 7th century. The highlight of this cave is the acoustics. A mild hum in this cave resonates spectacularly to help the monks focus and concentrate on their meditation. We will climb a steep path to the top of a hillock where we can see seventeen polished bed carved out of the rock. These beds were used by Jain ascetics since the 3rd century. The beds have a raised portion at one end which serves as a pillow.

The temple was built by the Cholas and renovated by the Pandyas in the 13th century. The highlight of this temple is the main hall a 1000 pillars. There are some remarkable sculptures in this complex.The Rati and Manmadha sculpture is a masterpiece. Another remarkable statue is that of Shiva in a dancing pose.