Masroor Rock-cut Temple, Kangra Rock Temples , rock temple in kangra, masroor travel guide

Known for its monolithic rock-cut temples, Masroor is 38 km from Kangra Town. There are 15 rock-cut temples in Indo-Aryan style and are richly carved. It is a unique monolithic structure in the sub-Himalayan region and is a protected monument

The main shrine contains three stone images of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. The temple complex is located on a hill and also has a large rectangular water pond. The view of snow clad Dhauladhar is amazing from the temple premises.

The nearest visitable places includes Pong lake near Nagrota Surian, 10 km from Masroor and hot water springs at Tattwani village, on the bank of Gaj rivulet near Salol village on Lunj- Gaggal road, 15 km from Masroor. It is accessible from Gaggal (30 km) on Nagrota Surian link road and 22 km from Ranital road.

The main shrines of the Masroor Rock Cut Temples are dedicated to Rama, Laxmana and Sita. The stone images of these gods from the time of Mahabharata are worshipped by Hindu devotees who come from far and near. The entire temple complex is situated on a hill and provides spectacular views of the terrains beyond. Premises of the rock cut temples also boast of a rectangular water pond, which is considered equally auspicious by devotees. Spectacular views of the snow peaked Dhauladhar Range mesmerize devotees and tourists alike and in more ways than one.

Masroor Rock Temples are also famous for their figurine of Lord Shiva, which is located at a central point in the complex. This idol of “Mahadeva” has led to strong presumptions that these temples were originally dedicated to festivities and coronation of Lord Shiva. As per legend, the monolithic rock cut temples of Masroor had been carved out by an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.

These 15 monolithic rock-cut temples are built in the Indo-Aryan style and are distinguished by their richly carved sculptures and ornate carvings. The rock cut temples of Masroor are protected monuments located in beautiful Sub-Himalayan terrains and visited by thousands of domestic as well as international tourists across the year.

Appropriately ranking amongst the best rock carved monuments across the length and breadth of India, these rock cut structures are larger than those present in Nagara in size, situation and execution. Tourists visiting this rock cut temples are mesmerized by the grandeur and magnificence of the statues, carvings and sculpture adorning the walls of the temples.

Situated at an elevation of 2500 feet above sea level, some of the original shikharas belonging to these temples are now exhibited in the State Museum of Shimla. These protected monuments are believed to have been carved in the 6th and 8th century and reflect the architectural styles of the Kailashnath Temple in Maharashtra.

Those visiting the famous Masroor Rock Cut Temple, also stop at the pretty Pong Lake located near Nagrota Surian-- which it is at a distance of 10 km from Masroor along with the thermal springs at the small hamlet of Tattwani.

Best Time To Visit

Though Kangra enjoys pleasant climate all round the year, most tourists and devotees like to visit the rock cut temples of Masroor from March to October. Rains in the months of June -September make the valley green and attract thousands of nature lovers interested in enjoying the monsoons in hilly terrains. Winters in the Kangra Valley can be harsh with most areas lying under snow and being out of bounds for their visitors.

Summers (April-June) are quite warm with the mercury rising to 38°C. The average temperatures remain in the range of 28 °C, making this season the perfect time for nature treks and long walks in the hills.

Monsoons (July -September) are messy with heavy rainfall, gray weather and possibilities of landslides. While tourists try to avoid the months of July and August, this time the region is flush with waterfalls, green valleys and misty clouds hanging low on the mountains.

Winters (December – February) can be chilly and keep locals and tourists indoors. Snowfall in this season can lead to poor visibility and road blockages.

How To Reach

Air Route

Pilgrims and tourists flying by air reach Gaggal, which is the nearest airport in the region. It is located at a distance of 72.5 km from the holy city of Dharamshala and 8 km from Kangra. There are few carriers which touch down on this small airport; the chief being Jagson Airlines which flies only on four days of the week, through the sectors connected by Gaggal-Bhunter-Delhi. Other airports are located at Shimla, Kullu Manali, Amritsar and Pathankot.

Rail Route

The closest railway station is situated at Una which is connected via a narrow gauge line with Ranital. This narrow gauge railway line from Pathankot passes through many smaller stations before reaching Joginder Nagar.

The other broad gauged rail head is located at Pathankot which is approximately 88 km from Dharamshala. Pathankot is linked to all major cities/towns of India with many trains plying throughout the day. After arriving at Pathankot or Kangra, travelers can avail regular buses and other easy transportation facilities to visit Masroor.