Monolithic Temples in India

In India, rock carving has been of considerable antiquity. The rock cut caves of Ajanta, Bagh, Ellora and Elephanta had earned global applause for its inimitable style and craftsmanship. But when it comes to naming temples of monolithic nature, there is only a hand-full that fits the bill. These could precisely be named are the ‘rathas’ at Mahabalipuram (the seven pagodas), the Kailasa temples at Ellora, the temples of Masrur in Himachal Pradesh, the Nandi pavilion of Panchavaktra temple at Pune and the rock cut shrine of Thal in Almora, Uttaranchal.

The temples at Mahabalipuram and Ellora reflect a Dravidian style of construction. In terms of style and boldness of conception, the Masrur temple out classes its rivals. Its positioning at the top of a hill contrary to the Kailasa temples, which is situated in a pit like hollow, assumes a rare architectural advantage. In terms of size too, the Masrur temple stays apart from its rivals. The rock cut cave of Thal, situated on a rocky platform, is an architectural splendor on all counts.