Saturday, January 21, 2017

Masroor Rock Cut Temple - The Indian Sphinx

When I looked at the rock cut complex for the first time, I was able to locate a sphinx like structure in the center. It had a replica too which was destroyed during the earthquake in 1905.

The Masroor Rock Cut Temple - Can you locate the sphinx like structure?
 If you take a look closely at the center, you can locate a sphinx like structure on either side of the Thakurdwar (entrance)

A side view of the Masroor temple
The temple is about 50 kms from McLeodganj and is easily accessible by road. In the temple complex, there is a lake called the Masroor lake and a school too.

Another shot with the sun behind the temple
Legend has it that this temple was constructed by the Pandavas (from Mahabharata) during their incognito exile. If you go with what the archaeologists say, the temple dates back to 6-8th century and is monolithic (made from one rock). Such architecture is common in the western and southern India with several rock-cut complexes. However, as far as a the northern part of the country is concerned, the Masroor rock-cut temple is one of a kind.

Carvings all over the wall behind me
As seen from the images carved, the temple has witnessed a transition from being a Shaivite temple to a Vaishnavite temple. The transition was due to the change in the religious beliefs during the middle ages. In the current state, the temple has three idols (Rama, Sita and Lakshmana). Outside the main temple, we can also see a Hanuman idol too.


I am only sharing the interesting stuff in this blog. If you are in archaeology, you may want to read more about it online.

With this one, I am experimenting with the videos too! Hope you like it.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year; entry fee as on January 10, 2017 is INR 15

How to reach: This is well connected with road network and can be reached by taking a cab or a bus from Kangra or Dharamsala.

3 comments:

  1. THanks for sharing this wonderful temple information with this is a really nice place, Masroor Monolithic Rock cut temples represent a very beautiful work of the ancient people of India. Sunset Taj Mahal Tour

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Ankur, for sharing your views. It is a hidden marvel or ancient archaeology.

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