#Nagara architecture Himachal

[mysterioushimachal]

Nirath Sun Temple: North India’s Only Surya Shrine in Himachal

[travelthrivehub]

Explore the Breathtaking Baijnath Temple in Himachal

Discover the Breathtaking Baijnath Temple in Himachal Pradesh 🏛️🏔️ • 800-year-old spiritual site • One of 12 Jyotirlingas in India • Stunning Nagara-style architecture • Surrounded by Himalayan beauty • Perfect for spiritual seekers and nature lovers Best time to visit: March-June, Sep-Nov #BaijnathTemple #HimachalTourism #SpiritualTravel #IndiaTravel

Have you ever wondered about an ancient temple that’s over 800 years old? The Baijnath Temple in Himachal Pradesh is amazing. It’s a place of history and a sacred site for Lord Shiva, known as Vaidyanath, the Lord of Physicians. This temple is surrounded by the beautiful Dhauladhar ranges. It combines rich culture and stunning nature. Let’s explore this architectural wonder and learn its…

[john-william-12]

Discover the Hidden Marvel of Masroor Rock Cut Temple

As you venture beyond the bustling lanes of Mcleodganj and travel southwest, you’ll find yourself on a quieter road that leads to a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh—the Masroor Rock Cut Temple. This temple complex may not be on every tourist’s radar, but it is an architectural wonder that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. 

For those who enjoy exploring offbeat locations, this site offers a captivating experience, often compared to the famed Angkor Wat of Cambodia due to its stunning rock-carved structure. 

A Closer Look at the Masroor Rock Cut Temples

Located in the Kangra district, the Masroor Rock Cut Temples are a group of ancient Hindu shrines intricately carved from a single monolithic rock. This temple complex stands as the only example of Nagara-style architecture in North India, making it a rare site for those interested in both history and architecture. 

The detailed carvings depict various Hindu deities, offering visitors a glimpse into India's rich religious and cultural past.

The temple complex faces the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range, providing a scenic backdrop. Although four entrances were originally planned, only one is fully completed, adding a sense of mystery to the site. 

In front of the temple lies a sacred water reservoir, whose still waters beautifully reflect the temple structure, making it a dream location for photography enthusiasts. The serenity and architectural beauty of the Masroor Rock Cut Temple offer a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh.

The History of the Temple

The history of the Masroor Rock Cut Temple is shrouded in mystery, with little known about its origins. However, it is widely believed that the temple complex was built in the early 8th century. Its hidden location likely kept it off the radar until 1913, when British officer Henry Shuttleworth stumbled upon the temple and reported it to archaeologists. 

In 1915, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted a survey, sparking archaeological studies and preservation efforts. While the temple complex remains largely intact, the weathering of time has left its mark, adding to the ancient allure of this remarkable site.

Myths and Legends: The Story of the Pandavas

According to local legend, the Masroor Rock Cut Temple is linked to the epic tale of the Mahabharata. It is said that the Pandavas—five brothers who were central characters in the Mahabharata—built the temple during their exile from their kingdom. 

The water reservoir, which remains an iconic feature of the temple complex, was supposedly constructed for Draupadi, their wife, to provide a source of water during their stay. Whether you believe the legend or not, the temple’s mythical connection adds to its intrigue, making it an even more compelling destination for travellers fascinated by India’s rich mythology.

How to Get There

🚗 By Road: The nearest major town is Dharamshala, located 43 km from the temple. Travelers can easily take a bus to Dharamshala and then hire a private taxi for the remainder of the journey.

✈️ By Air: The closest airport is Kangra Airport, approximately 30 km from the temple. Taxis are readily available at the airport to take you directly to the site.

🚆 By Train: For those who prefer to travel by train, the nearest railway station is in Kangra, 53 km away. From there, taxis or other forms of transport can take you to the temple.

If you're planning to visit the Masroor Rock Cut Temple and you're traveling from abroad, applying for an Indian Visa can simplify the process. The Visa for India is available for citizens of over 160+ countries, allowing travelers to apply for a visa online from the comfort of their homes. The eVisa is perfect for short visits, typically issued for tourism. For those interested in discovering the cultural treasures of Himachal Pradesh, like the Masroor Rock Cut Temple, the tourist eVisa is the most suitable option. 

The process to apply for the Indian Visa is simple and quick. You’ll need to fill out an Indian visa application form, upload your passport and a passport-sized photo, and pay the visa fee. In most cases, the eVisa is processed within 3 to 5 business days, though it is recommended to apply at least a week in advance of your trip. Once approved, your eVisa will be electronically linked to your passport, and you will receive a confirmation email. Upon arrival in India, all you need to do is present your passport at the airport. 

What to Expect at Masroor Rock Cut Temple

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone looking for a unique destination away from the usual tourist hotspots, the Masroor Rock Cut Temple is a fantastic addition to your travel plans. As a lesser-known gem, this temple offers a tranquil experience steeped in history and mythology, all while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Our team highly recommends adding this beautiful, serene destination to your travel itinerary. We believe the Masroor Rock Cut Temple not only offers a chance to explore an ancient, hidden marvel but also provides visitors with a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh. 

[wildhighs]

Palampur to Mandi Distance

Exploring the Journey from Palampur to Mandi: A Scenic Himachal Adventure

Himachal Pradesh is known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene hill stations, and tranquil mountain roads. If you’re planning a road trip in this beautiful region, the journey from Palampur to Mandi should be on your list. With lush greenery, charming villages, and scenic mountain views along the way, this route offers an enriching experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you're headed to Mandi for its rich cultural heritage or simply exploring the hills, knowing the Palampur to Mandi distance and the best route options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

The Distance Between Palampur and Mandi

The Palampur to Mandi distance is approximately 124 kilometers, making it a comfortable drive of about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. The journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Kangra Valley, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, terraced fields, and flowing rivers.

While the distance itself is not too long, the winding mountain roads provide plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the natural beauty along the way. Many travelers also use this route as a gateway to further explore the mesmerizing valleys of Himachal Pradesh, including destinations like Barot Valley, Kullu, and Manali.

Best Route from Palampur to Mandi

The most common and scenic route from Palampur to Mandi is via NH154. Starting in Palampur, the drive takes you through Baijnath, a town known for its ancient Shiva temple, and Joginder Nagar, a small hill station known for its scenic views and a ride on the famous Jogindernagar-Pathankot toy train. The entire route is dotted with quaint villages, roadside eateries, and plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The well-maintained highway ensures a pleasant driving experience, and the clear signboards along the route make it easy to navigate.

Things to See Along the Way

Baijnath Temple

Just a short detour from the main route, the ancient Baijnath Temple is a must-visit for its stunning Nagara-style architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 13th-century temple is set against a backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains, offering visitors both spiritual and scenic beauty.

2. Joginder Nagar

Situated midway between Palampur and Mandi, Joginder Nagar is a peaceful hill station famous for its hydroelectric project and the toy train that runs along a scenic route through the hills. It’s an ideal spot to stop for a quick break and enjoy the views before continuing on your journey.

3. Pandoh Dam

As you approach Mandi, the Pandoh Dam, located on the Beas River, offers an impressive sight. The reservoir is surrounded by dense forests and mountains, making it a great spot for a quick photo stop.

Exploring Mandi

Once you reach Mandi, you’ll be greeted by the town’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Known as the "Varanasi of the Hills" due to its numerous ancient temples, Mandi offers plenty for travelers to explore. Some key attractions include:

Rewalsar Lake: A sacred lake surrounded by monasteries, temples, and a peaceful landscape, it’s a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation.

Bhutnath Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a key religious site in Mandi and a great place to explore the local culture.

Barot Valley: A bit of a detour from Mandi, Barot Valley is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to experience camping, trekking, and fishing in pristine surroundings.

Tips for Traveling from Palampur to Mandi

Start Early: To make the most of your journey and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way, it's best to start early in the morning.

Keep Essentials Handy: While the route is fairly developed, make sure to carry snacks, water, and a basic first-aid kit in case you need them during the journey.

Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle is fully fueled before leaving Palampur, as fuel stations can be sparse in the more remote areas.

Conclusion

The Palampur to Mandi distance may be a short one, but the journey is filled with scenic beauty, cultural sites, and the charm of Himachali villages. Whether you're traveling for leisure or adventure, this route offers an unforgettable experience of the Himachal Pradesh landscape.

At Wild Highs, we specialize in crafting unique travel experiences that allow you to explore the unexplored. If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond Mandi, consider visiting Barot Valley, one of Himachal’s hidden gems. Our customized camping and trekking experiences will let you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Himachal like never before.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure from Palampur to Mandi be the start of your Himachali exploration!

[strengervinay]

Top 5 Places to Visit in Kangra 

Kangra  place is known for its rich culture

Kangra is a wonderful and amazing place located in Himachal Pradesh.  This place is known for its rich culture and traditions. Places to visit in Kangra are numerous and they serve a great visual delight and relishing feel for the tourists. 

There are many more places for a nature lover to explore in this location. Kareri Lake, Kangra Fort, Baijnath temple, etc, the list just goes on like that. If you are a wanderlust who loves hiking and trekking activities then you must try a trekking adventure in Kareri Lake.

The Best Places to Visit in Kangra 

Kangra has many great places to explore and all those places are completely cool and great. You can enjoy a great time if you decide to move ahead with the Kareri Lake trek.  The lake is a great spot for clicking pictures. You can also enjoy picnic time near the lake.

Kareri Lake trek distance is around 13 kilometers and typically starts from the village of Kareri, which is not too far away from Kareri Lake. You will love this trek experience. There are many places like Kangra Fort, Kangra Art Museum, etc to explore along with your trek venture. 

Here’s a List of 5 Top-Notch Places to Visit in Kangra:

1. Kangra Fort

Highlights: Kangra Fort is one of the oldest and largest forts in India, with a history dating back to the 4th century BC. It offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and was once the seat of the Katoch dynasty. The fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the confluence of the Banganga and Majhi rivers.

Features: Intricately carved temples, ancient gateways, and a small museum showcasing artifacts related to the fort’s history.

2. Kareri Lake 

Highlights: Kareri Lake is a high-altitude, shallow freshwater lake located in the Dhauladhar Range. It’s a popular trekking destination and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek to Kareri Lake takes you through dense forests, scenic meadows, and quaint villages. Kareri Lake location is closer to many good tourist spots, visit all those spots.

Features: The lake is fed by melting snow from the Dhauladhar Range, making the water crystal clear. Camping by the lake is a unique experience for adventure enthusiasts.

3. Baijnath Temple

Highlights: The Baijnath Temple is an ancient Shiva temple renowned for its architecture and religious significance. Built-in 1204 AD, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vaidyanath (the Lord of Physicians). The temple is a fine example of Nagara-style architecture and attracts devotees and history enthusiasts.

Features: The temple complex is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful atmosphere, with the backdrop of the snow-capped Dhauladhar mountains.

4. Jwala Devi Temple:

Why Visit: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, Jwala Devi Temple is famous for its eternal flame that burns without fuel. It's a revered pilgrimage site attracting devotees from across the country.

Highlights: The eternally burning flame, sacred rituals, and the spiritual ambiance.

5. Pragpur:

Why Visit: Pragpur is India’s first heritage village, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and traditional crafts. It offers a glimpse into the rural life of Himachal Pradesh.

Highlights: The Heritage Village, traditional houses, the Judges Court heritage hotel, and local crafts.

Conclusion:

Are you planning for a vacation with adventure as well as a refreshment of nature? If yes then you must visit Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. This will make a wholesome vacation memory for sure.

[travelworldplanet]

Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the Himalayas, is home to several famous temples known for their religious significance, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the most renowned temples in Himachal Pradesh:

Hadimba Temple, Manali:

Located in Manali, the Hadimba Temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. The temple is known for its unique wooden architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Jwala Ji Temple, Kangra:

Jwala Ji Temple in Kangra is dedicated to the goddess of eternal flame, Jwala Devi. It's famous for a continuously burning natural flame that emerges from the ground.

Chamunda Devi Temple, Kangra:

Situated near Dharamshala, this temple is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

Naina Devi Temple, Bilaspur:

Perched on a hill near Bilaspur, the Naina Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi. Pilgrims visit to seek her blessings and enjoy panoramic views of the Sutlej Valley.

Baijnath Temple, Baijnath:

The Baijnath Temple, also known as the Baijnath Shiva Temple, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features intricate stone carvings and is a fine example of Nagara-style architecture

Chintpurni Temple, Una:

This temple is dedicated to Mata Chintpurni, a form of Goddess Durga. It's a popular pilgrimage site where devotees seek solace and blessings.

Manikaran Sahib, Kullu:

Manikaran Sahib is a Sikh and Hindu pilgrimage site known for its hot springs and the Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara. It's a place of spiritual significance for both communities.

Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan:

Located in Sarahan, the Bhimakali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhimakali, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It boasts traditional Himachali architecture and offers scenic views.

Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chamba:

This temple complex in Chamba is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. It's known for its architectural beauty and intricate stone carvings.

Bajreshwari Temple, Kangra:

Also known as the Kangra Devi Temple, it is dedicated to Goddess Bajreshwari, another form of Goddess Durga. The temple complex has a rich historical and architectural significance.

These temples in Himachal Pradesh not only hold religious importance but also offer a glimpse into the region's rich culture and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the spirituality and natural beauty that surrounds these sacred sites while enjoying the serene Himalayan landscapes.

[hk1417]

Mysterious Masroor

Our architectural inclination took us (H-K & family) to Mysterious Masroor temples in January 2018. Why mysterious? Because it has indistinct stories related to its existence. Lot of stories and questions came across by visiting this place and we bring it on to you for answers and for more inquisitiveness (Post in the comment box :) through our photographic journey.

Location: Masroor, Lahalpur, Himachal Pradesh which is 59.6 km from Jia village (Of course Jia is our reference point :)

Time taken: 1h 43min drive from Jia.

Altitude: 2500 ft above sea level. Jia is at 4114 ft.  This information actually helps in shedding off your layers :P.

 A great little drive with changing landscapes, even the sand color changes from brown to a reddish tone, made our way to these majestic rock cut temples. The temple complex caged in a metal railing boundary is accessed from the back side raising the curiosity of the visitor. The temples are set in the terrain in such a way that one doesn’t realize its magnificence until you see from the front. Moreover, the reflection of temple in the ‘kund’ opposite to it glorifies its presence.

It is stated that it was built for Draupadi, wife of Pandavas for her ablution purpose during their exile period from the kingdom. Really? These temples are that old and were built around 3081 BC? Let’s take a sneak peek into the other facts as well,

Story 1 (3081 BC) – Local tale narrates that around five thousand years ago; Pandavas of the Mahabharata built this temple and resided here during their incognito exile. The temples remain unfinished because they shifted from here as their identity and location was revealed.

Story 2 (Around 8 -9th Century AD) – It is assumed that these temples were built during the time same as of Kailasa temple at Ellora, Aurangabad, Maharashtra because of being rock cut in nature. It is suggested by scholars that this could be the work of unknown imperial rulers of Jalandhara kingdom of Punjab plains and might have remained as a capital-in-transit of the Jalandhara rulers and later the capital shifted to Nagarkot i.e. the Kangra Fort.

Story 3 (Tadda!!! - The Discovery) - The temples were first noted among the Objects of antiquarian interest in the Punjab and its dependencies, Lahore, 1875. However it continued to be hidden until 1913 H.L.Shuttleworth discovered and later description of these temples was published in 1915 by H. Heargreaves.

Story 4 (Shaivite converted to Vaishnavite in 1980’s?) – The main temple is known as the ‘Thakurdwara’ which means God’s (Thakur) place (dwara) i.e. the place of God. It enshrines stone images of Ram, Laxman and Sita which seems to of recent date. It is said that originally it was a Shiva temple because of the presence of Shiva on the doorway lintel of the central shrine and other Shaiv figural forms found in the temple complex.

But where’s the Nandi? Was it destroyed? Because presently a sacred Tulsi plant resides at the entrance of the temple shrine. Traditionally in Shiva temples, Nandi (the gate- guardian deity of Lord Shiva, depicted as a bull which also serves as the mount to the god Shiva) sits on a porch in front of the central temple.

Other visual thing that pops in our minds is the Buddha or Mahavira resembling figures on the Shikharas of the temples. Was there any relation to Buddhism or Jainism?

There might be some relation to Jainism because there is an ancient Jain temple of Lord Adinath present in the Kangra Fort also which was established by Raja Sansar Chand (I) in 1523 AD. So, there could be some influence.

OR

If these temples are built around the late medieval period under the Gupta patronage when Ajanta-Ellora caves were built then there could be some Buddhist influence as well on the artists while building this beauty.

The ‘May’ or ‘May not’ situation definitely got to dig us in to books like:

Architectural Heritage of Himachal Pradesh: Origin and development of Temple style -  S. Laxman Thakur

Coronation of Shiva-Rediscovering Masrur Temple – N.K. Singh

Temples of Himachal Pradesh – Shantilal Nagar

Surprisingly, very detailed information and references is provided in the Wikipedia link below which also provides drawings as documented by historians.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masrur_Temples

Architecturally, Masroor temples are one of the early phase temples built in Nagara style in Himachal Pradesh. Due to the remote locations and very secluded lifestyles of the people in the mountains there were very few shrines built in Nagara style temples before 8th century.

The main shrine faces north east and two cruciform shrines, which are independently carved from the main ridge, flank the both sides of the temple. In the present scenario it is difficult to identify the no. of Shikharas. According to various scholars fifteen or seventeen Shikharas of Valabhi type (rectangular buildings with a roof that rises into a vaulted chamber) are observed. 

Iconography on the temple walls and Shikharas has weathered a lot over the period of time. Efforts are being done by Archeological Survey of India (ASI) to conserve these temples. Would love to explore the techniques of restoration in our upcoming blogs.

The temple is carved out of a natural sandstone rock of size 148ft x 137ft. The ‘kund’ in front of the temple is around 165ft x 82ft. Height of the temple is varying from 40ft- 50ft ranging according to different shikharas (10 times of me :P). The photo below can give you idea of scale in relation to human beings.

Imagine a sight of lighting diyas (lamp) or water lilies in pink in the pool. What an abode to God! We are mesmerized :)

End Note: The Photographs included in the blog is solely H’s skill & talent and the writing content is researched by K and reproduced by going through  the following links and books:

 Ancient Monuments of Himachal Pradesh – O.C. Handa

 Kangra Darpan – Satish Bassi

Mountains and Temples- A study of Architectural Evolution of Hindu temples in Kangra (9th to 18th century A.D) – Unpublished Thesis, CEPT University – Karan Sharma

http://www.academia.edu/12616519/Architecture_of_the_Rock-Cut_Temples_of_Masroor

 http://123himachal.com/temple/masroor.htm

 http://www.wondermondo.com/Countries/As/India/HimachalPradesh/Masroor.htm

http://www.mysteryofindia.com/2015/12/rock-cut-temples-masroor.html

[rajasthantourplanner]

Top 10 Destinations in India for Solo Women Travelers

Solo travel means you're going somewhere else alone, where you will spend a significant chunk of time alone once you get there. Now, just because you travel alone doesn't mean you'll always be alone during your travels, for the female travelers coming to India. While safety should always be taken seriously it is easy to follow some simple rules and guidelines to keep yourself out of trouble’s way. So, ladies, it’s your time to tie your shoes and explore the country like never before!

We have compiled a list of 10 destinations in India which are notable for their undoubted charm but are also safe for the solo women traveler who likes to travel solo.

Places To Visit In India for Solo Travelers:-

Udaipur – Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, it’s set around a series of artificial lakes and is known for its lavish royal residences. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens, famed for its intricate peacock mosaics

Varanasi – Varanasi is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh dating to the 11th century B.C. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India, the city draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters and perform funeral rites. Along the city's winding streets are some 2,000 temples, including Kashi Vishwanath, the “Golden Temple,” dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva

Rishikesh – Rishikesh is a city in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan foothills beside the Ganges River. The river is considered holy, and the city is renowned as a center for studying yoga and meditation. Temples and ashrams (centers for spiritual studies) line the eastern bank around Swarg Ashram, a traffic-free, alcohol-free and vegetarian enclave upstream from Rishikesh town.

Hampi – Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. On the south bank of the River Tungabhadra is the 7th-century Hindu Virupaksha Temple, near the revived Hampi Bazaar. A carved stone chariot stands in front of the huge Vittala Temple site. Southeast of Hampi, Daroji Bear Sanctuary is home to the Indian sloth bear

Nainital – Nainital is a Himalayan resort town in the Kumaon region of India’s Uttarakhand state, at an elevation of roughly 2,000m. Formerly a British hill station, it’s set around Nainital Lake, a popular boating site with Naina Devi Hindu Temple on its north shore. A cable car runs to Snow View observation point (at 2,270m), with vistas over the town and mountains including Nanda Devi, Uttarakhand’s highest peak

Mysore – Mysore (or Mysuru), a city in India's southwestern Karnataka state, was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. In its center is opulent Mysore Palace, seat of the former ruling Wodeyar dynasty. The palace blends Hindu, Islamic, Gothic and Rajput styles. Mysore is also home to the centuries-old Devaraja Market, filled with spices, silk and sandalwood.

Shimla – Shimla is the capital of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan foothills. Once the summer capital of British India, it remains the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway, completed in 1903. It’s also known for the handicraft shops that line The Mall, a pedestrian avenue, as well as the Lakkar Bazaar, a market specializing in wooden toys and crafts.

Khajuraho – The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a group of Hindu temples and Jain temples in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh, India, about 175 kilometres southeast of Jhansi. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temples are famous for their nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures.

Kaziranga – Kaziranga National Park is a protected area in the northeast Indian state of Assam. Spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, its forests, wetlands and grasslands are home to tigers, elephants and the world’s largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses. Ganges River dolphins swim in the park’s waters. It’s visited by many rare migratory birds, and gray pelicans roost near Kaziranga village.

Pondicherry – Pondicherry (or Puducherry), a French colonial settlement in India until 1954, is now a Union Territory town bounded by the southeastern Tamil Nadu state. Its French legacy is preserved in its French Quarter, with tree-lined streets, mustard-colored colonial villas and chic boutiques. A seaside promenade runs along the Bay of Bengal and passes several statues, including a 4m-high Gandhi Memorial.

[yesroyalrumble]

🕉 🚩 The Masrur Temples, also referred to as Masroor Temples or Rock-cut Temples at Masrur, is an early 8th-century complex of rock-cut Hindu temples in the Kangra Valley of Beas River in Himachal Pradesh, India. The temples face northeast, towards the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. They are a version of North Indian Nagara architecture style, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Devi and Saura traditions of Hinduism, with its surviving iconography likely inspired by a henotheistic framework. Much of the Masrur's temple's sculpture and reliefs have been lost. They were also quite damaged, most likely from earthquakes. A British empire officer Henry Shuttleworth visited and photographed the temples in 1913, calling it a "Vaishnava temple" and claiming in his report that he was the first European to visit them. He wrote a paper on the temples, which was published by the journal The Indian Antiquary. He shared his findings with Harold Hargreaves, then an officer of the Northern Circle of the Archaeology Survey of India. Hargreaves knew more about Hindu theology, noticed the Shiva linga in the sanctum and he corrected Shuttleworth's report. Hargreaves wrote up his tour and published his photographs and observations in 1915 as a part of the ASI Annual Report Volume 20. Hargreaves acknowledged the discovery that a draftsman in his office had already toured, measured and created temples plans and sections in 1887, and that some other ASI workers and Europeans had visited the temple in 1875 and after 1887. The Hargreaves report described the site as many temples, listed iconography at these temples from different Hindu traditions, mentioned his speculations on links with Mahabalipuram monuments and Gandhara art, and other theories. The Hargreaves text became the introduction to Masrur temples for guides by reporters with little to no background knowledge of Indian temple traditions or Hindu theology. According to Meister, these early 20th century writings became a source of the temple's misidentification and misrepresentations that followed. Can we really afford to miss out on our heritage? 🤔 (at Kangra, Himachal Pradesh) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5l_3TAlzUA/?igshid=ydqdr176ymqx

[iluvdharamshala]

The main Temple of The himalayan Pyramid . The Masrur Temples, also referred to as Masroor Temples or Rock-cut Temples at Masrur, is an early 8th-century complex of rock-cut Hindu temples in the Kangra Valley of Beas River in Himachal Pradesh, India . The temples face northeast, towards the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. They are a version of North Indian Nagara architecture style, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Devi and Saura traditions of Hinduism, with its surviving iconography likely inspired by a henotheistic framework. Though a major temples complex in the surviving form, the archaeological studies suggest that the artists and architects had a far more ambititious plan and the complex remains incomplete. Much of the Masrur's temple's sculpture and reliefs have been lost. They were also quite damaged, most likely from earthquakes . The temples were carved out of monolithic rock with a shikhara, and provided with a sacred pool of water as recommended by Hindu texts on temple architecture. The temple has three entrances on its northeast, southeast and northwest side, two of which are incomplete. Evidence suggests that a fourth entrance was planned and started but left mostly incomplete, something acknowledged by the early 20th-century colonial era archaeology teams but ignored leading to misidentification and erroneous reports . Masroor Rock Cut Temple | Distt- Kangra Himachal Pradesh . Photo By: @rambler.007 (Pankaj) . #dharamshala #triund #dharamshalagram #himachalpradesh #himachalgram #himachalpradesh #triundtrek #dalailama #masroortemple #himalayas #himalayan #himalaya #himalayangeographic #himgeo #incredibleindia #himalayagram #mountains #mountaingram #wanderlust — view on Instagram http://bit.ly/2Ht39W1

[mysterioushimachal]

Basheshar Mahadev Bajaura: Ancient Stone Temple of Kullu

[rachdyer-blog]

India is the land of Shiva and a large number of the population are avid shaivites . The entire landscape is dotted with magnificent, majestic and incredibly spiritual sites of worship for the lord. From the southern end in Kanyakumari to the northernmost end of Uttarakhand, there are so many Shiva temples and each one if as holy and sacred as the other. If you are looking for spending a spiritual time in North India then here are some temples that will make your journey worth it.

Kedarnath

Perched on top of a hill top against the scenic backdrop of the Kadar dome mountain ranges is one of the holiest jyotirlinga of India. People from all over the world make it a point to go on the holy yatra pilgrimage to this abode of lord Shiva which is said to have been created by the Pandav brothers. Located in the district of Rudraprayag district this ancient temple is known for its spiritual vibrations that encapsulates the whole region and allows you to have a deeply devotional experience. Although a difficult to reach location this holy yet humble temple allows you to have one of the most spiritual experience in India.

Kashi Vishwanath temple

This holiest of all the Shiva temples in India topped with a golden roof this temple is located in one of the oldest living cities of Varanasi in close proximity to the holy river of Ganga. It is 1 out of the 12 of the holiest jyotirlingas that are spread nation wide.it is believed to be hub spot for Shaivism and pilgrimage related to lord Shiva. People who die in Varanasi are believed to achieve nirvana. It is a sight to behold during the auspicious occasion of shiv ratri and is attended by a huge number of pilgrims from far and wide.

Kailash Mansarovar

Located further in the north India towards Tibet, is the permanent home of lord Shiva i.e. Kailash Mansarovar. This place remains covered in ice throughout the year making it also one of the toughest pilgrimages of lord Shiva in India that can be done via a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package. People go there to go around the mountain of Kailash and offer their prayer at the Mansarovar lake which is extremely sacred. It is not only an auspicious place for Hindus but it is a very significant destination of pilgrimage for Buddhist as well as Jains.

Daksheshwar Mahadev temple

Situated at a distance of 4 kms from the sacred town of Haridwar, within a quaint village of Kankhal is a colourful temple of Daksheshwara Mahadev that is named after the Prajapati daksh, the father of devi sati and an incarnation of goddess Durga. Designed entirely in the nagara style of temple architecture the temple boasts of its old history and relevance in the history of Hinduism. The temple turns into a vibrant place of worship during the holy occasion of mahashivratri.

Tungnath temple

Perched atop a hill and somewhat replicating the architectural design of Kedarnath temple, Tungnath is deemed for being the highest shiva temple in the world. It falls on the way of trekking to Chandrashila peak – a renowned destinations for avid adventure seekers in the country. The temple’s original construction date is still a mystery and although the garbhagriha is very small and packed, the spiritual aura that eminates from the temple is nothing short of divine. The magnificent panoramic surroundings of the snow capped peaks from the top also adds to the fascinating charm of this place.

Triyuginarayan Temple

Situated peacefully in the scenic district of Rudraprayag and amidst the lap of nature, this temple is a very auspicious location. It is this very place where lord Shiva had married goddess Parvati. It is also said that lord brahma was present there as the goddess’s brother and lord Vishnu had performed the wedding in front of several prominent sages and saints. A prime attraction of Triyuginarayan is the ever-burning flame which is said to have never turned off ever since the holy matrimony took place. A visit here promises lifelong marital bliss between married couples.

Koteshwar Mahadev

The humble cave temple of koteshwar is situated on the holy banks of rive Alaknanda and is known for it peaceful and quite surroundings. One can imagine how Shivji must have felt when he had arrived here on his way to Kedarnath. It is believed that thecave is the place where he performed meditationwhich is marked by the presence of several idol dedicated to the holy deity. These idols are naturally formed which only adds on to the spiritual sanctity of this auspicious temple.

Triloknath temple

Located in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh this temple is one of the oldest temples here. dedicated to lord shiva the prime attraction of the temple is the three faced image of the lord that is worshipped inside the humble temple structure. It is said that this place of worship was built by sultan devi the wife of raja ajbersen in the year 1520. Ever since then it has been one of the prime temple attractions in Himachal Pradesh.