Temple Architecture: Basic Parts of a Hindu Temple

  • Sanctum Sanctorum: Also known as Garbhagriha (literally womb-house) is a small room, generally cubicle, which houses the principal deity of the temple. 
  • Mandapa: It is the entrance to the temple. It may be a portico or a hall and is generally designed to house a large number of worshippers. 
  • Shikhara: It is a mountain-like spire. The shapes vary from pyramidal to curvilinear. 
  • Vahana: It is the mount or vehicle of the main deity and is placed just before the sanctum sanctorum. 

Pic Credit – Wikimedia Commons

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