The undergrowth gives way into a large clearing in the woods, its border partially defined by stone pillars. The western face of the clearing is dominated by a looming, upthrust ridge of rock, nearly 300 feet across and rising to a moss-topped height of 100 feet at the center. The side of this towering boulder facing the clearing has been carved in the likeness of an immense elk, its antlers drooping down from its weathered face to frame a 50-footwide cave entrance. A flight of stone steps leads up to this cave entrance from the forest clearing—both the steps and elk face feel quite old and as if they have been here forever. A 50-foot-long oval pool sits in the middle of the clearing.

It acts as a retreat for devotees and, sometimes, as a safe haven for travellers.

No change March 2023