The Hindu and Buddhist history of Odisha , or rather, ancient Kalinga, is rather well known to everyone. Who hasn’t heard of the grand temples of Odisha – Puri, Lingaraj and Konark, or the great war of Kalinga which inspired Ashoka to convert to Buddhism? In contrast, very few know of the Jaina heritage of this region. This is quite a pity, since, just around 7 km from the city, is one of India’s most ancient inscriptions, which throws light on the Jaina heritage of Odisha. This inscription is the Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela, in the hills of Udaygiri. Udaygiri and Khandgiri are two hills located opposite each other, and both are testaments to the rich Jaina heritage of Odisha. The caves at Udaygiri are older, while Khandgiri is relatively newer, but has lasted much longer, and continues to be a place of pilgrimage for Jains even today. These hills, from inscriptions and excavations of caves, shrines and rock beds, appear to have been a haven for Jaina monks, right from the ...
For Skywatch today is an interesting natural sight – the Phantom
Rock near Ambalavayal town in Wayanad, Kerala.
This natural, metamorphic rock resembles a skull, which
brings about its name.
It is visible from quite a distance, which only enhances its
popularity.
Locally, it is called ‘Cheengeri Mala’ or ‘Thalappara’,
which means ‘stone head’.
For more beautiful skies from around the world, visit the
Skywatch Page.
Have heard about this rock a lot. Yet to visit it. It looks so precariously placed there. Nice clicks!
ReplyDeletehttp://rajniranjandas.blogspot.in/2013/06/alibaug-beyond-beach.html
Thanks Niranjan. It is really placed precariously and its amazing to see it still standing like this!
DeleteAnd I had not heard of it at all before today. They look majestic. catch up with your blog once i am back on the other side of June.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mridula! it is really a majestic sight! and all the best for your trek! I look forward to your posts!
DeleteA majestic rock.
ReplyDeleteYes, THomas. it is majestic indeed!
DeleteWhat a wonderfully moody rock! Great pics.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Ladyfi!!
DeleteI've heard about Chengeri Mala / Thalapara, but never seen them. The picture of the rock against the sky is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThanks Anu!! you should go see it someday! really beautiful place!
DeleteThere is a spooky place in Wayanad, could you visit it?
ReplyDeleteNo Indrani, we couldnt visit that. I did hear of it, but our time went off in other pursuits :D
DeleteVery interesting! There are so many unheard of places.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kusum! there indeed are many such places across India!
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ReplyDeleteNever heard of this, Anu. But then I don't really know much of Wayand. Nice captures all.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sudha! its quite a landmark in Wayanad!
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