Why Choose Architecture Tour
Oldest, Infinite, Unparalleled, Unbelievable - These are few adjectives that can define the architecture of India. Magnanimity of this subject is such, that one has to dedicate his life to understand its origin and diversity. Hindu Temple architecture and Indo Islamic Architecture are the 2 contrasting architectural styles which are best known in the world. The former one further incorporates numerous regional styles into it.
Harappan Valley civilization and Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to around 2600 CE host the earliest forms of architecture which are known to humans and are found in India. Lothal in Gujarat and Mohenjodaro, are the living proof of this history and have been termed UNESCO world heritage sites.
One of the most prominent forms of architecture is the Hindu Temple Architecture or the Nagora style. The grandeur, delicate carvings, extensive courtyards, and delicate carvings make them a feast for the eyes. Contrasting forms of North Indian and South Indian temples are remarkable. While North India temples show increased elevation of the wall and elaborate spire by the 10th century, the South Indian temple consists essentially of a square-chambered sanctuary topped by a superstructure, tower, or spire and an attached pillared porch or hall (maṇḍapa or maṇṭapam), enclosed by a peristyle of cells within a rectangular court. Examples of such styles include Lingaraj Temple at Bhubaneshwar, Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha, Brihadeshwarar temple at Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, and Kailsha Temple in Ellora, Maharashtra. The step-wells of Rajasthan are another great example of intricate architecture. “Rani ki Vav” in Patan, Gujarat, dates back to the 11th Century and is considered more mysterious than the pyramids of Egypt. It took almost 35 Years for their excavation. Following are the regional styles which are worth a mention and date back to centuries -
- Architecture of Karnataka
- Kalinga architecture
- Dravidian architecture
- Western Chalukya Architecture
- Badami Chalukya Architecture