For many travelers, the primary reason for visiting the Kangra Valley is to witness the grandeur of the Kangra Fort and the Kangra Devi Temple. Over the years, Kangra Valley has increasingly become a favored destination for both tourists and backpackers alike. This surge in popularity can be attributed to the valley's abundant array of captivating destinations that dot its landscape. Among these, you'll find Baijnath, Bir Billing, Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Shaktipeeths, and a variety of mesmerizing trekking routes. Unquestionably, these destinations have earned their place among the world's most renowned travel spots.
However, besides these destinations, only a few of us know that this noble Kangra valley is a home to another worldly spot!!! Only a few of us know that there is a group of temples steeped in rich history and commendable architecture, including the ancient Hindu temples of Himachal Pradesh!!! Yes, there is an offbeat group of temples, whose presence has raised the brilliance in the valley. These temples are known as the “Masroor Rock cut temple,” waiting to be discovered, waiting to get explored. And, so I was there to explore it.
Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Sometimes,
the most exciting places are really the ones that carry the least hype. Masroor
rock cut temple is one such spot. Just a couple of hours drive from Kangra (35
km) in Lahalpur area, we can witness this beautiful temple. Actually, the
Masroor temple is a group of temples made by cutting out 15 monolithic rocks.
This temple is dated back to the 8th century AD and is primarily dedicated to
Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, and Goddess Sita.
However,
this introduction will remain incomplete if I don’t use the words – “Himalayan
Pyramid“. Yes, the temple’s architecture looks too similar to the pyramids, as
you can see in the below image. In addition to this, sometimes, Masroor rock
cut temple is also compared with the caves of Ajanta-Ellora of Maharashtra and
that’s why today it is also known as “Ellora of Kangra“. But in reality, this
group of temples is far older than the Ajanta-Ellora.
Well, if I
exaggerate further then the temple has another unique thing, and that is its
enigmatic history. There are few stories and mythologies related to this temple
which remain enigmatic or I can say, are concealed behind the bars. Here today,
I am going to unearth some of those stories in front of my valuable readers.
So, just scroll down…
However, an
unfortunate thing has happened to this temple. There was an earthquake in 1905
in which the temple got devastated. Today, we can see its ruins only. But
still, it is a centre of attraction.
History Behind Masroor Rock Cut Temple
The temple
was first discovered in 1913 by a British officer Henry Shuttleworth during the
rule of British kingdom. Mr Henry Shuttleworth had put the temple’s pictures in
front of the archaeologists. And so, various studies were carried out at the
temple to unearth its chronology. Finally, ASI (Archeological Survey of India)
concluded that this temple was made in the 8th century. Also, ASI declared this
temple to be one and only of its kind in Northern India.
However, even after all these years and doing all the studies, the archaeologists are still vulnerable to say anything about the creator of this temple. Yes, it is still unknown about the person who made the temple.
Another
story… According to the mythology, the temple got its existence from the epic –
Mahabharata. The basic structure of the temple was built by the Pandavas during
their exile. And the lake present in front of the temple was made for their
beloved wife “Draupadi”. It is also said that the Pandavas were looking to
create a staircase to reach the heaven. However, they were unable to complete
the task because of Indra Dev (king of Gods).
There are a
few more stories related to the temple but all these have made its history more
mysterious and puzzled. But for me, listening to these stories was a delight. I
was pretty enjoying all these stuff and I’m pretty sure you will also if you
visit this place. Now, let’s talk about its architecture/structure…
Structure of Masroor Rock-Cut Temple
It is
pretty obvious to say that the temple is “Ellora of Kangra” because it
resembles similar to the Ajanta – Ellora caves of Maharashtra. However, for me,
the first thought that ran into my mind was – “Angkor Wat temple (Cambodia)“.
Seriously, my thought was more convincing in this matter LOL…!!
Besides
this, sometimes, the Masroor Rock-cut temple was also compared with the temples
of Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu). Pretty fantastic isn’t it…
Talking about the structure of Masroor Rock-cut temple, it is made from Balua Pattar (sandstone rocks) in Indo-Aryan style. The rocks were cut in a very sophisticated manner with several intricate carvings. These carvings represent Lord Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva, Lord Kartikeya, Goddess Lakshmi, Parvati and many more god and goddess.
If we take
a deep look at the carvings done on rocks, then it looks nearly impossible to
do such a thing today. But the people of that time (8th century) had done it
perfectly. It leaves us spell-bounded. By seeing this I feel like, our old
generation was highly advanced to what we see today.
There is a sacred Masroor lake in front of the temple which has doubled the beauty of the Masroor Rock-cut temple. Its sacred water is so pure that I was able to see the temple’s reflection clearly.
Another
thing which I find more interesting is the government school by the side of the
temple. Nothing more can better than studying near to such a worldly spot. I
wish I had studied in that school.
By the side
of the temple, there is a huge structure with stairs to reach the top and see
the top view of the temple. That’s is where I had observed the pyramid
structure of it. Also, the structure offers some of the best panoramic views of
the scenery present.
Finally, I
witness my favourite thing…SUNSET when I was returning from the Masroor
Rock-cut temple.
How to Reach
- By road: As Masroor temple lies in Kangra district so the nearest town is Kangra (35 km). One can use the taxi service or public bus service or can do the bike tour also.
- By Airways: The nearest airport is Gaggal.
- By Roadways: The nearest railway station is Pathankot and
for “toy train” the station is Kangra.
Last Few Words…
Though the
temple was shattered in the earthquake, it’s awe-inspiring artwork is still
pleasing its travellers. I always get amazed by seeing such temples…these
temples narrates so much about our ancient culture and civilization. And this
was what I was looking for. My exploration has not only spiritualized me but
also made me think about the magnificent structure (with-standing nature’s
fury).
Today our
government has listed this temple among the national heritage site. And the
temple is also considered under the plan – Adarsh Memorial Plan for converting
this rare destination into a tourist spot. This will not only make Masroor
Rock-cut temple famous but also will develop the nearby area. And so the temple
will experience larger footfall.
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