Masroor Rock Cut Temple

Labeled as the Himalayan Pyramid, Masroor Rock Cut Temple- Kangra is an admired archaeological relic in India. At proximity of 32 km from Kangra on Nagrota-Surian Link Road, the temple is cited in the core of Kangra district, the temple is certainly accessible from all parts of the state. The key part of the prominent rock-cut temples is in relics yet one can study the artifacts obviously. According to diverse studies conducted by the specialists, the temple complex was erected in between 8th-9th century AD. Masroor Rock Cut Temple is a collection of 15 Indo-Aryan styles colossal rock-cut temples. The main sanctuaries comprise the stone idols of Rama-Laxman and Sita. It is stated that all 15 temples are engraved out of a single rock.

Folklore according to the local myths is that the Pandavas expended a long period of time here in this temple premise during their banishment. A tale tells about the presence of an unfinished staircase that is discovered inside the temple. It is believed that the staircase was erected by the Pandavas to reach heaven. They pledged to finish the construction work by the same day morning. Listening to this Indra, the king of the Gods got worried as the stairs would make the way to reach heaven easily accessible. So he cloaked himself in the form of a crow and croaked loudly before the early dawn. As a result of the Pandavas, they could not complete the staircase.

Another belief is that the temple was constructed by an ardent Lord Shiva devotee, Raja Yashoverdhan. The existence of the figurine of Lord Shiva in the entranceway also gives a strong insinuation that the temple was originally devoted to Mahadeva. This historical temple is relatively in ruins because of an enormous earthquake in 1905.

The temple complex is positioned on a pinnacle at an elevation of 2500 feet from the main sea level and has an adjoining huge and quadrilateral tank which is nearly 50 m in length and remains filled with water throughout the year. From the temple, one can get an awe-inspiring view of hoary Dhauladhar ranges.

Traveler Tips:

• Wear comfortable footwear as you need to walk a lot to reach the temple.
• Wear fresh and clean clothes.
• Wear appropriate clothes, preferably that cover your full body, to offer prayers to the Lord.
• Remove footwears at the shoe-racks at the entrance of the temple.
• Put your camera away as photography is prohibited in the restricted sections of the temple.
• Cover your head with a stole or a shawl.
• Avoid wearing leather or carrying leather bags and purses as it is considered to be derogatory in respect to the Lord.
• Make offerings to the Lord.

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the ancient architecture of the temple.
• Offer prayers.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty around the temple.
• Meditate and rejuvenate your mind and soul.
• Plunge in the cool water of the pool in the premises of the temple as it is supposed that taking a dip in that pool dispenses a person from all malevolent.

Timings:

• From 6 am to 6 pm, daily.

History:

The temple complex was erected in between 8th-9th century AD. Folklore according to the local myths is that the Pandavas expended a long period of time here in this temple premise during their banishment. A tale tells about the presence of an unfinished staircase that is discovered inside the temple. It is believed that the staircase was erected by the Pandavas to reach heaven.
Another belief is that the temple was constructed by an ardent Lord Shiva devotee, Raja Yashoverdhan.

Architecture:

Masroor Rock Cut Temple is a collection of 15 Indo Aryan style colossal rock-cut temples. The main sanctuaries comprise the stone idols of Rama-Laxman and Sita. It is stated that all 15 temples are engraved out of a single rock. The temple complex is positioned on a pinnacle at an elevation of 2500 feet from the main sea level. It is one of the most intricate single rock-cut architectures in Nagara style with elaborate sculpture detailing on the beams, pillars, doors, and columns which still baffles archaeologists and historians on the persistence and dexterities of the constructors who were accountable for designing such astonishing piece of architecture during that era. There is an unfinished staircase in the temple that is supposed to reach heaven.

Best Time to Visit:

Shivratri is the best time to visit this temple if you want to enjoy the flamboyant culture of the region. Avoid visiting in monsoons due to recurring landslides and heavy downpour.

How to Reach:

At proximity of 32 km from Kangra on Nagrota-Surian Link Road, the temple is easily approachable by a private car or hired cab.

Interesting Facts and Trivia:

• The temple has high reverence among Hindu pilgrims as the temple complex has the idol of Lord Ram, Sita, and Laxman and also has a figurine of Lord Shiva in the entranceway.
• There is a quadrilateral tank that is nearly 50 m in length and remains filled with water throughout the year.
• 15 temples in the premises are carved out of one single colossal rock in Indo-Arya style.
• The temple has an unfinished staircase that is supposed to reach heaven, built by the Pandavas.

Nearby Attractions:

• Dal Lake
• John in the Wilderness Church
• Kangra Valley
• Tibet Museum
• State Museum of Dharamshala
• Chintpurni
• Kareri Lake
• H H Dalai Lama’s Main Temple
• Bhagsu Nag Temple
• Tsuglagkhang Complex