Samanar Hills Tourism

Type of destination: Historical and Religious Site

Ideal visit duration: 2-3 hours

Closed in: Open all year

Samanar Hills are a historic hill rock complex located in Keelakuyilkudi village near Madurai in Tamil Nadu, India. These hills were home to Tamil Jain monks during the 1st century AD. The name 'Samanar' means 'Jain' in Tamil, and the complex is renowned for its ancient Jain carvings and caverns. The carvings depict the life of Jain monks and Tirthankaras (saints), providing insights into their customs and philosophies. One of the major attractions here is the set of rock-cut caves known as 'Pechipallam', which contains exquisite carvings and Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions. Visitors can also find an 18th-century watchtower atop the hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hills are surrounded by lush vegetation and provide a serene environment away from the city's hustle. It is a significant archaeological and religious site and has been recognized as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Monday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Tuesday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Wednesday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Thursday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Friday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Disclaimer: It's important to check the most current information before planning your visit, as opening hours can vary and might be subject to change due to special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances. A reliable way to confirm the opening hours is to contact the local tourism board, check the official website (if available)

Entry Ticket Pricing for Samanar Hills

Adult	Free
Child	Free

Disclaimer: Please note that prices are subject to change, cross check required .

Tips when you are visiting to Samanar Hills

Wear comfortable shoes as you will need to hike up the hill.

Carry water bottles and a hat to avoid dehydration, as it can be quite hot.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Top 5 Reviews on Samanar Hills

ajjuky

Wrote on 5th Jul, 2022

Great view from the hill

This place is in the outskirts of Madurai and not very well known (did not feel like a regular tourist stop). Depending on your location in the Madurai, Auto rikshaw may take you for a reasonable pric..

RenuSK

Wrote on 2nd Jul, 2022

Must see site

Samanar hill is a hike with moderate difficulty. It is not for elderly people; however, it is a must-see site for people who can climb up the steep steps. The carvings are intricate. There are two sep..

injamaven

Wrote on 8th Oct, 2021

Pongal Pleasures

I was there at Pongal time way back in 2007. Will never forget all the beauties of the place - this was before the railing, so I didn't climb the hillock, too slippery. But enjoyed the charming Koil, ..

Zeeyo

Wrote on 25th Jul, 2021

Panoramic views from the hill

The place is not very popular, but it's a must visit! It's actually quite a rocky hill, where some Jain monks have carved steps on the rock many centuries back, so you could climb on top. There are so..