Jain temples from medieval period can be spotted in different parts of Kerala including Kasargode, Wayanad, Palakkad, Calicut, Ernakulam etc. These temples commonly called basdis can be divided into two, rock shell/ cut basdis and mandapa-line basdis.
The Jain temple of Sultan Batheri, Vishnugudijain temple is locally known as Kidanganad Basdiand dates
back to the 13 th century .The antique temple is located in Puthangady, which is 17 kilometers from Kalpatta. The only original part left from the ancient construction is the Sreekovil of the temple. Rest of the stones and pillars remain there as dilapidated pieces. The architectural brilliance of the temple is commendable. Being the biggest stone temple in Wayanad, each stone of the building was specially brought from Mysore for construction on looking around; you can spot intricate sculptural works of Hanuman and Garuda, dancing figures and floral motifs. The temple which has stood for more than 1000 years was initially built as a shrine and later became an important Centre for commercial activities. During the battles of TipuSulthan in Kerala, the temple was used as a dumping ground for ammunitions.It is said that there is a secret tunnel inside a well here that goes from Kerala to Mysore. Tipu during his war days here had built many escape tunnels for protection.
The temple consists of Andharala, front mandapa, namaskara mandapa and an elegantly square shaped sreekovil. Doors are carved with artistic designs like garlands, snakes, precious stones, swans etc. The temple which holds the golden legacy of a lifetime has been recognized by central government as a monument of national importance and is now it is maintained by central archeological department.
This temple is dedicated to Ananthanatha Swami, who was a holy pilgrim. Build in the 13 th century;the temple was built in a peculiar architectural style. The whole temple is decorated with Dravidian style paintings. As Tipu stored his ammunitions here, the temple is also known as Tipu’s fort. The main attraction here is a large Mahavir idol made of pure brass. You can reach the temple on travelling 6 kilometers from Kalpatta.
Trekk through the tiny hill of Myladippara to see this tiny, yet graceful temple. Years of war and natural
calamities had crumbled the temple to a dilapidated state. However, the government of Kerala rebuilt it
announced it open to visitors. On trekking further up, we can see the wondrous caves with sculptures
and carvings that is almost a 1000 years old. Though it is fun to walk through these dark chilly caves
made of gigantic rocks, one has to be cautious while squeezing through them as the rocks are closely
piled up and you might slip.
This 3000 years old Vishnu temple is located Half kilometer from Punchavayal. Locally known as Kallambalam,Janardhanagudi has a sanctum, porch and gateway. After entering the basdi through an array of granite slabs, it is possible to see a sculptured garuda at the doorway. There are carvings of a
monkey worshipping a linga, nagakettu and a tortoise and thebase of the gateway is carved with tuskers. The construction also consists of Andharala, face mandapa, namaskara mandapa and a square shaped sreekovil. Doors are decorated with different carvings, garlands, snakes, precious stones, swans. Central government has recognized this temple as a monument of national importance and is maintained by central archeological department.
There are other temples in Palukunnu at a distance of 18 kilometers, Anjukunnu Temple at a distance of
20 kilometers, Puthiyedam temple at 25 kilometers, Mananthavadi located at 30 kilometers, Venniyoor
located at 13 kilometer sand Varadoor temple 13 kilometers all from Kalpetta.
It may be an interesting for at least some to know that there was a small Jain population in Wayanad. Being the first community to migrate to Wayanad, they originally belong to Dhigambara sect and are known as Gowadas. Earlier when Hoysalakings were ruling Karnataka, Wayanad was its part and was then known as Bailnad. King Cheraman Perumal encouraged Jainism during the period of 9 th to 12 th centuries. The migrated Jainsfirst came to Panamaram region on the banks of Kabani river from where, they spread to different parts of Wayanad.It is said that there were 12 Jain streets around the temple.
By air: Most of the temples are located a few kilometers from Kalpetta. The nearest airport is Calicut International airport. From there you can take a cab or bus to Kalpetta.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Calicut railway station. You can get down there and take a bus or cab to Kalpetta.
By Road: Kalpetta is well connected with NH 212. You can easily come from Bangalore, Mysore or Mangalore by bus or any other vehicle
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