Temple Architecture Timeline
Early Cave Temples
3rd century BCE - 3rd century CE
The earliest Hindu temples were cave temples, such as those found in the Barabar Caves in Bihar. These were often used by ascetics and monks for meditation and worship.
Learn moreGupta Period
4th - 6th century CE
The Gupta period saw the emergence of the classical style of Hindu temple architecture. The Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh is a prime example of this early structural temple style.
Explore Gupta templesNagara Style
6th - 13th century CE
The Nagara style, characterized by its beehive-shaped tower (shikhara), became prominent in North India. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments exemplify this style at its peak.
Discover Nagara architectureDravidian Style
7th - 18th century CE
In South India, the Dravidian style evolved with its distinct gopurams (gateway towers). The Brihadisvara Temple in Thanjavur, built in the 11th century, is a masterpiece of this style.
Explore Dravidian templesVesara Style
7th - 14th century CE
The Vesara style, a hybrid of Nagara and Dravidian styles, emerged in the Deccan region. The Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu is a prime example of this intricate style.
Learn about Vesara architectureIndo-Islamic Influence
12th - 19th century CE
With the advent of Islamic rule, some Hindu temples began incorporating Indo-Islamic architectural elements. The Akshardham Temple in Delhi represents a modern interpretation of this synthesis.
Explore Indo-Islamic fusionModern Revivals
20th century - Present
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen a revival of traditional temple architecture, often blending ancient styles with modern construction techniques. The ISKCON Temple in Bangalore is a notable example.
Discover modern temple architecture