Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): The most sacred space of the temple, where the deity’s idol is enshrined. Statues of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna are often placed at its entrance.
Mandapa (Assembly Hall): A pillared hall in front of the main shrine, used for congregational rituals.
Absence of Water Tanks: Unlike Dravida-style temples, Nagara temples typically lack water reservoirs within the premises.
Elevated Platforms: Temples are often constructed on raised platforms.
Shikhara (Temple Tower): A symbolic representation of the cosmic and natural order in Hindu tradition, varying in form based on period and region.
Types of Shikharas:
Latina (Rekha-Prasada): Square base with walls curving inward to a peak.
Phamsana: Broader base, shorter in height, with a straight-line slope.
Valabhi: Rectangular base with a vaulted roof, emerging from the Gupta heartland.
Bhumija: Characterized by miniature spires arranged in a grid-like pattern on each face.
Amalaka: A fluted, disc-like structure at the top of the Shikhara.
Kalasha: A spherical finial placed above the Amalaka.
Vertical Plane Variations:
Triratha Temples: Early structures with three vertical projections.
Pancharatha, Saptaratha, and Navaratha Temples: Later developments featuring five, seven, or nine projections, often used as panels for sculptural narratives.
Additional Features:
Pradakshina Path (Ambulatory Passage): A covered circumambulatory corridor around the Garbhagriha.
Minimal Boundary Walls and Gateways: Unlike later temple styles, early Nagara temples had simple or no elaborate enclosures.
