Masroor Rock Cut Temple, McLeodGanj

Masroor Rock Cut Temple | History, Timing & Best Time to Visit

Masroor Rock Cut Temple is an archaeological site that is now in ruins and is located near Dharamsala, 32 kilometers from Kangra, along the Nagrota-Surian Link Road. The complex consists of 15 rock-cut temples that were constructed in the Indo-Aryan architectural style and are thought to have been constructed around the eighth century, based on remnants. The structure, which faces northeast toward the Dhauladhar range, is devoted to the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, and Saura. Experts who are currently studying the structure contend that it was a component of a complex design for more building that has not yet been completed. Earthquakes are mostly to blame for the majority of the complex’s damage.

With a Shikara, the Masroor Temples were carved in the Nagara style from a single monolithic rock. There are now three entrances to the complex, although a fourth has reportedly been left unfinished. Hindu writings served as inspiration for the architecture, which features a sacred pool of water and is symmetrically designed with a square layout. The main temple, which has a square sanctuary, is in the center, and it is surrounded by a mandala pattern of smaller temples. Teachings from the Vedic era are depicted in the elaborate interior carvings.

Devotees and visitors alike flock to the captivating Masroor Rock Cut Temple, which is perched atop a rocky hill and encircled by the picturesque Dhauladhar mountains. It is also thought that bathing in the tank’s sacred waters will purge your soul of sin.

Legend of Masroor Rock Cut Temple 

The Masroor Rock Cut Temple in Dharamsala has a mythology, much like any other historic location. According to mythology, this temple was constructed by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata while they were in exile (vanavaas). Additionally, it is thought that they had to depart the area before it was completed since their secret identity was revealed to the public while it was being built. The Pandavas created the rectangular pond in front of the temple specifically for Draupadi’s usage.

According to another account, the Pandavas aspired to heaven. … order for them to start building a staircase within the Masroor Rock Cut Temple. They swore to finish building the staircase by the next morning. Since the stairway would provide a convenient means of accessing heaven, this infuriated Lord Indra, the god of thunder and heaven. In order to prevent the Pandavas from finishing the stairs, he pretended to be a crow and started crowing loudly in the early morning.

Structure & Architecture of Masroor Rock Cut Temple

The Masroor Rock Cut Temples, as their name implies, are made from a single rock and feature a distinctive monolithic structure in the Indo-Aryan style. Approximately 2500 feet above sea level, the temples are situated atop the hill. With elaborate sculpture detailing on the lintels, pillars, doors, jambs, and columns, it is among the most intricate single rock-cut architectures in the Nagara style. Scholars and archaeologists continue to be perplexed by the tenacity and skill of the builders who created such a remarkable work of architecture during that time.

Idols of gods and goddesses, such as Saraswati, Parvati, Shiva, and Lakshmi, together with floral motifs, can be seen at every temple. It is thought that the temple is only partially completed based on the structure. The attraction’s majestic structure is quite comparable to both the Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia and the Kailash Temple at Ellora. The Rath of Mahabalipuram, the Dharmanatha Temple at Dharmnar, and the Kailash Temple at Ellora Caves are just a few of the several other temples in India that were created using rock cutting. But the only temples constructed on the hilltop are the Masroor Rock Cut Temples.

How To Reach Masroor Rock Cut Temple

The temple is situated 45 kms away from Dharamsala. You can either drive down or hire a taxi to reach your destination.