Famous Temples in India

Architecture

The Navlakha Temple built at a cost of Nine Lacs hence the name Navlakha. It rivals the Somnath Temple and Modhera Sun Temple in its architect and interiors. The temple design has a great influence on a combination of Solanki style architecture and Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. An entwining tusk of three elephants is considered to be a trademark of the temple. The temple has a finely carved large base. It stands to face towards the East. The temple had a beautiful entrance arch which is now collapsed. The sanctum sanctorum, covered circumambulation path, huge hall and three Shringar Chokes are mesmerizing. The mandapa is supported by eight-sided pillars. The small niche houses various images. An image of two elephants fighting with their trunks can be seen on the back wall of the temple. The temple also houses an image of Lord Brahma and Savitri, Lord Shiva-Parvati, and Lord Lakshmi Narayan. The carvings on the outer walls represent figures from the Shaiva mythology and friezes. Near to the Navlakha temple, there is a stepwell which is called "Vikai Vaav" and ‘Jetha Vaav’. ‘Vikai Vaav’ is the largest step wells in the entire Kathiawar region. Vikai or Vikia Vaav was constructed by Jethwa ruler Vikiaji. Hence, the Vaav was named after him. It is considered among one of the oldest and the biggest step wells. The well has many flights of steps leading up to it. The entrance pavilions can be seen standing intact at three places.

Navlakha temple possesses the largest base, also known as Uaga, among all the temples of Gujarat which measures to about 45.72 x 30.48 meters. In the eastern part of the temple there was a magnificent arch, called Kir Toran, which has lost over me. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple, also known as garbhagriha, is a large gathering hall covered with the "pradakshina" path. The three shringar chokis of the sanctum are quite charming. Three balconies can be spotted in three directions along the surrounding walking path. Eight sided pillars support the mandapa. Sculptures adorn the small niches of the temple. The entrances of the temple are two-storied.