Sandstone shrines of Masrur

The north-western side of the complex where the damage is near total and some excavation seems to be on.

A mesmerising sense of movement, in perfect symmetry. The main temple faces east and stands surrounded by smaller ones.

In the partly preserved shrine on the south-eastern side, seated gods with exquisitely carved peacocks on the lintel above.

In the smaller shrines on either side of the main temple, the receding flanks of the shikharas are carved in layered horseshoe patterns, on which are bhadramukhas sculpted within semicircular alcoves.

A carved pillar base with equally ornate round beading and bangles.

In the main shrine, a stairway leading from an ornamental doorway to the top. The pillar held the roof of the mandapa and behind it, on the wall of the entrance, is an exquisitely crafted ornamental kalash.

A view of the shrine on the south-eastern side, which has suffered less damage than the rest.

The surprisingly undamaged lotus on the ceiling of the antechamber of the main temple.

A view of the temple complex from the top of the adjoining hill.

A view of the north-eastern side, one of the best preserved in the complex. At far left is Kuber’s image with the head missing. On the right is a part-female form.

A close-up of the part-female form enshrined in the north-eastern side.

Indra and Siva seated on their respective vahanas.

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The 19 temples of Masrur, built during the 7th and 8th centuries A.D., make it the largest rock shrine in northern India. Here, engraved projections on the shrine on north-eastern side.