Masroor Rock Cut Temple, located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is famous throughout the country due to its unique craftsmanship, ancient history and religious beliefs. This temple group, built by cutting a single huge rock, is considered a rare example of rock-cut architecture not only in Himachal but in the entire country. This temple complex, built around the eighth century, is also called the ‘Ellora of Himachal’, which even today attracts people interested in history, faith and art.

There are about 15 temples carved out of a single stone in the Masrur temple complex, which clearly reflect the Nagara style. The carvings of the temple, the pavilions, the shikhara and the sanctum sanctorum are all carved out of rock. Some part of the temple was damaged by the severe earthquake of 1905, but despite this, its architectural grandeur is still clearly visible.

Temple specialty

The Masroor Rock Cut Temples are a group of temples carved out of a single massive rock in the early 8th century. It is also called the ‘Ellora of Himachal’, as its structure and carvings are reminiscent of similar world famous rock-cut temples.

Here a total of about 15 small and big temples have been built from the same stone, whose foundation, peak and pavilion are all cut out of rock. Extremely detailed and intricate carvings of gods, goddesses and mythological stories are visible inside and outside the temples. The entire complex of temples is arranged according to a square grid.

History to the temple

The Masrur temple complex is believed to have been built around the 8th century. It is an excellent example of North Indian urban style architecture.

The 1905 earthquake damaged many parts, so the temples today appear to be in somewhat ruins archaeologically, but many structures are still in good condition.

Earlier the existence and construction on this site was planned to be even bigger but due to earthquakes and time, research is ongoing on why many parts of it are still incomplete.

Beliefs to temple

According to local belief, the Pandavas of Mahabharata had started the construction of this temple during their exile but due to some reason it had to be left incomplete. A pond built in the temple complex, which is associated with Draupadi.

A folk tale states that a staircase built within the complex was being built as a way to heaven, but was stopped before completion because the gods prevented it. There is no written evidence of these stories, yet local people still believe in them.

Who is worshiped in the temple?

• The temple complex is believed to be dedicated to Lord Shiva, as the idol and icons of Lord Shiva are found in the main temple.
• During the excavation, idols of Ram, Sita and Lakshman were also found here, which are today installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the main temple.
• Vishnu, Indra, Kartikeya, Agane and many other gods and goddesses are seen in the surrounding small temples and carvings.
• Therefore it can be said that the temple complex of Masroor is dedicated to many Hindu deities but mainly it is the site of Lord Shiva, Lakshman-Ram-Sita and miscellaneous deities.

How to reach?

By Road:

• Masroor Temple is located at a distance of about 32-35 km from Kangra city and about 50-51 km from Dharamshala.
• It falls on Nagrota-Surian Road. Easily accessible by private taxis, buses and cabs.

nearest airport

• The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala), which is connected to Delhi by regular flights.

Nearest Railway Station

• The nearest railway station with good connectivity is Pathankot Railway Station.