ASI initiates excavation in the vicinity of 26-feet Menhir at Kumarikkalpalayam hamlet in Tiruppur district

ASI begins excavation near the 26-feet Menhir in Tiruppur district to study its historical significance and potential Roman trade evidence.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Thursday initiated excavation for stratigraphy study in the vicinity of the 26-feet Menhir at Kumarikalpalayam in Uthukuli taluk of Tiruppur district.

The ASI is looking forward to getting the structure declared as a centrally-protected site of national importance.

The Menhir is stated to be the tallest in the country. Over the next one year, the ASI will analyse pottery pieces, iron slags and other traces of iron age and earlier history found during two years of surface study at the location, to establish evidences of Roman trade, P. Aravazhi, Superintendent Archaeologist (in-charge), Archeological Survey of India, Tiruchi Circle, told mediapersons after initiating the excavation process at the key trench.

Excavation activities near the Menhir site at Kumarikalpalayam in Tiruppur district was initiated by P. Aravazhi, Superintendent Archaeologist (in-charge), Archaeological Survey of India, Tiruchi Circle, on Thursday. | Photo Credit: M. PERIASAMY

The location for excavation which is situated just 10 km away from archaeologically-prominent Kodumanal in adjoining Erode district is expected to throw up stronger evidences of Roman trade, Mr. Aravazhi said.

During August 2025, the ASI had mooted a joint survey along with the Tiruppur district administration for the purpose of declaring the Menhir as Centrally Protected Monument under The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.