Moonrise on Chiranjiv Shrunga Chiranjiv Shrunga was the highest peak of Sundargiri. This peak was situated behind Yadu Shrunga. The path to Chiranjiv Shrunga passed through rocky terrain, valleys and thick forest. A natural rock formation fortified its peak. There were several large caves in the mountain side; some of these were natural while others were carved by human hands. These caves numbered around seventy-five. A perennial spring provided pure and sweet water. The spring was surrounded by high rocks which allowed sunlight to fall on the water, but the place remained cool even at noon. The spring flowed through ten or fifteen caves; it encircled some, while many others opened towards the water body. The largest of the caves was two-storeyed. It had a terrace of black stone which looked out on all four directions. The lower floor was supported by thick stone pillars. Images from the Buddhist period were carved on these pillars. This floor was lower than the fortification around Chiranjiv Shrunga. The floor below it had a wall on one side and pillars on the free side. An image of five men armed with bows and arrows but in meditative pose was carved on the wall. Some believed it to be an image of the Pandavas, while others believed they were some great souls from either the Ashokan Empire or a later period. The lowest floor had walls on three sides while the fourth side opened out to the spring. There were steps and a platform made for easy passage from the cave to the spring. Lotuses bloomed in the spring. A stone bridge connected the top floor to another cave. The spring flowed below the bridge. This cave was called Saumanasya Gufa.

Sarasvatichandra was brought to the cave as instructed by Vishnudas. It was dusk when he reached the cave. Sarasvatichandra was accompanied by Radhedas, Jnanbharati and three other monks. They were Sundardas, Surdas and Mayapuri; all three had acquired second order of spiritual attainment. They carried pots for water and fruits and tubers. They entered the cave through the steps and sat on the platform. Jnanbharati spoke, ‘Navinchandraji Maharaj, this is Saumanasya Gufa. This, the lowest floor of the cave is open to all itinerant monks. The top floor is reserved only for these who have the right to communicate with the world of the immortals. If a person who does not have this right were to spend a night on that floor, he would be besieged by evil spirits. He is most likely to go mad, and some even die of fright. Ordinary people find this place scary even during the day and usually avoid it, unless in a group. But it is most appropriate for ascetics engaged in meditation. It gives rise to many supernatural experiences. You are to spend five nights on the uppermost floor in contemplation. We will stay here on the lower floor and are to serve you day and night. We will come up only when asked and