Temple design and history
Temples in North India follow centuries-old building rules. These guides explain the parts of a temple, the stone and the symbols, and what a new temple in Bihar could look like.
Guides on temple design
Difference Between Shikhara, Vimana and Gopuram Explained
Shikhara, vimana or gopuram? What each temple tower is, why South Indian gateways often outgrew the shrine, and how to tell the three apart on a visit.
Updated 2026-11-03
Parts of a Hindu Temple Explained: Shikhara to Garbhagriha
A beginner glossary of the parts of a Hindu temple, walking from the gate to the spire of a North Indian temple: jagati, mandapa, garbhagriha and shikhara.
Updated 2026-10-24
Nagara, Dravida and Vesara Temple Styles Compared Simply
The nagara dravida vesara difference in plain English: how north Indian, south Indian and mixed temples differ, with famous examples and a spotting guide.
Updated 2026-10-24
Prana Pratishtha Meaning: How a Statue Becomes a Deity
Prana pratishtha meaning in plain English: what the rite is, what the Agama texts say, the steps, and why Hindus hold different views about it.
Updated 2026-10-24
Shikhara Types: Latina, Sekhari and Bhumija Compared
Learn the three main shikhara types of North Indian temples, Latina, Sekhari and Bhumija, with a comparison table, examples and tips to spot each one.
Updated 2026-10-24
Garbhagriha Meaning: What Is the Sanctum in a Temple?
Garbhagriha meaning, how a stone image becomes a deity in Hindu tradition, and why an image of a living person in a temple sparks debate. Both views included.
Updated 2026-10-24
Public Memorials to Leaders in India: Statues and Temples
How memorials to leaders in India differ from temples: purpose, design, funding and rules, with real examples such as Raj Ghat and the Statue of Unity.
Updated 2026-10-24
Nagara Temple Architecture: Style, Parts and Stone
A plain guide to Nagara temple architecture: the curved shikhara tower, the main parts, three famous examples, and why sandstone is popular but not all alike.
Updated 2026-10-24