Mapping Kazhugumalai for tourists

Kazhugumalai, a heritage site, which depicts monolithic rock architecture of universal value, will get a facelift in the coming days. Efforts are afoot to develop the century-old hillock, which has a unique tourism potential. 

Infrastructural facilities would be augmented in the placid and tranquil atmosphere. ‘Kalakendra,' a guest house and other basic facilities would be set up in the interest of tourists at a cost of Rs. 60 lakh at Kazhugumalai, also known as ‘Southern Ellora.'

The tourists could catch a glimpse of historically significant monuments and ancient history of the structure, which would be exhibited at ‘Kalakendra.' 

Cultural heritage programmes would also be conducted.

A proposal to this effect had been forwarded to the government, Collector Ashish Kumar told The Hindu here on Tuesday.

The Village Tourism Development Committee, which was formed in 2005, would leave no stone unturned to bring Kazhugumalai on a tentative list of UNESCO's world heritage site, K.P. Bharathi, Programme Leader, Tourism for Development, Dhan Foundation, has said.

Action in progress

A community-based action is in progress to promote the status of site.

About 1500 members of women self help groups had been involved in the task. 

They were all economically deprived and they eke out a living by selling palm products. 

Sculptors were looking forward to a series of developmental activities to upgrade it as world renowned heritage site.

Developments on expected lines would be a veritable source for the economic uplift of the poor. 

A 14-member tourism development committee was also involved in familiarising the site. 

Community participation would ensure its vibrant growth. Better road infrastructure and proper drainage facilities would also be created. 

Citing covetable heritage values of the site, he said “Kazhugumalai has a treasure of monolithic rock architecture, first of its kind in South India and Vettuvan Temple, a famous Temple at the site, where devotees organise festival. Besides, Kazhugumalai had a university for propagating the Jain philosophy and value education. Another important structure is the Rock Cut Cave Temple (Kudavara Koil).” 

Like Mahabalipuram, Kazhugumalai also dates back to eighth century A.D under the patronage of the Pandya Kings. Since Mahabalipuram was located near Chennai, many tourists had frequented there unlike Kazhugumalai, he added.

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