Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple is a 9th-century rock-cut Hindu cave temple located in Thirunanthikarai village, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, India. Situated on the banks of the Nandiyaru river and carved into a rocky hillock to the north of the larger Thirunanthikarai Shri Nandeeswara Temple complex, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a Shiva Lingam enshrined in the sanctum. The temple is notable for its Kerala-style murals, including a prominent red-ink depiction of Ganesha in the southwest corner, and four Vatteluttu script inscriptions on pillars and pilasters, detailing donations for lamp maintenance, musicians, and festivals dating from the 8th to 10th centuries.
The site is believed to have originally been a Jain monastery in the 7th–8th century, associated with the ascetic Veeranandi, before being transformed into a Shiva temple. It is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Thrissur Circle, and is designated as a protected monument (N-TN-T5). The temple is part of the Shivalyam Ottam circuit of twelve Shiva temples in southern India.
Prominently featured in the murals is a depiction of Ganesh in red outline located in the southwest corner, accompanied by a devotee presenting offerings and scenes of palatial life. More eroded frescoes illustrate a Vaishnava theme, showcasing Narasimha with a female devotee. The ceiling displays a faded painting of lotus and natural elements, reminiscent of the Sittannavasal cave. The frescoes and murals within this cave temple exemplify the early development of Kerala-style murals in Hindu temples. Consequently, while this temple is situated in Tamil Nadu, it reflects the historical heritage of Kerala, particularly that of Travancore.
Location: Thirunanthikarai, near Kulasekharam, approximately 36 km from Nagercoil and 53 km from Kanyakumari.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Entry is free).
Architecture: Features a square-plan layout with a mandapam (hall), arthamandapam, and sanctum, with a steel staircase replacing the original rock-cut steps.
Historical Significance: Contains inscriptions from the Pandya, Ay, and Chola dynasties, including one noting that Raja Raja Chola I celebrated his birthday here in 1003 CE