Laying at the lap of Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh has been blessed with all the natural riches. From the enchanting rivers to the gigantic mountain peaks, from the captivating valleys to the elegant hot springs, there is no dearth of pleasant surprises that welcome you when you step into Himachal! Masroor Rock Cut Temple in Himachal Pradesh is one such spot that would astound you with its spectacular beauty and surreal vibe.
Let's take a tour to the Himalayan Pyramid - Masroor Rock Cut temple in Kangra
PC : Akashdeep83
Masroor Rock Cut temple is an array of monolithic(made out of a single block of stone) temples located on a rocky ridge in Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh. Fondly and justly called as the Himalayan Pyramid, it is a complex of monolithic rock cut temples in the classic Indian architectural style which dates back to 6th - 8th century!
Set in the striking landscape of Dhauladar range and Beas river, it is situated at the highest point of a picturesque hillock. First identified in 1875, the exact period of building this complex is not very clear.
The legend behind the Himalayan Pyramid!
PC : Kartik Gupta
According to a popular legend, the Pandavas in Mahabharata resided here during their exile and built this temple. Since it was an incognito exile, they shifted from here once their identity got exposed. This is said to be the reason for the unfinished part of the temple complex.
Masroor lake is a beautiful lake located in front of the temple which shows partial reflection of this edifice! It is believed to be built for Draupadi, the consort of the Pandavas.
The splendid architecture and carvings!
PC : Kartik Gupta
Though it is found in many ancient temples of south and west India, the architectural style is quite unique to the northern part of India. The splendid architecture and intricate carvings of the temple is a bliss to any historian!The temple was conceptualized as a tribute to Shiva. There are many lintels which depict scenes of festivals to celebrate the crowning of Shiva, not seen anywhere else in the country.
During dawn, the structure is an artistic visual treat of a "silhouetted" frozen form of a grief-stricken herd of standing elephants! And as the sun rises, the murals and carvings glow prominently in the light!
PC : Kartik Gupta
If you are planning to visit the blessed land of Himachal, you must certainly pay a visit to this gem of a temple. The glorious architecture and spellbinding landscape is going to mesmerise you for sure. Happy Travelling :)