Plan to develop Samanar Hills
1
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Madurai: The state tourism department has submitted a proposal to the govt seeking ₹1.27 crore to develop
basic amenities
at Samanar Hills, an ancient
Jain heritage site
near Keelakuyilkudi, on the outskirts of Madurai. The govt had announced in the state budget to promote
heritage tourism
and improve visitor facilities at historically significant Buddhist and Jain sites in Kanchipuram and Madurai.
According to officials, the work includes installation of container toilets for men and women, construction of pathways using RR stone paving, borewell arrangements, paver-laid approach roads, solar-powered street lighting, visitor seating, and hoardings providing historical context. The plan also includes a compound wall with grills near the pond, an entrance gate, and other landscaping and signage improvements.
Despite its historical significance, it is pointed out that the area lacks basic infrastructure and visibility on the tourist map. "There are several heritage sites across Keelakuyilkudi and nearby villages that suffer from neglect. In many places, there are no proper direction boards or signage explaining their history," said M Raj Kumar, a civic activist.
A senior tourism department official said better visitor infrastructure has become essential due to rising footfall at offbeat heritage spots. "We've seen a steady increase in interest around sites like Samanar Hills, especially from students, researchers, and domestic tourists. While some signs and amenities were installed in the past, many have been vandalised or have weathered over time," the official said.
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