What are the main parts in a temple plan?

In the Indian context, the period from the 8th century to the 15th century A.D. witnessed significant developments in temple architecture. Temples were not merely places of worship but also cultural, social, and economic centers. The temple plan during this era was based on a deep symbolism rooted in religious and philosophical concepts, primarily derived from Hindu texts like the Shilpa Shastras and Vastu Shastra. Across different regions of India, distinct architectural styles developed, notably the Nagara style in North India, the Dravida style in the South, and the Vesara style in the Deccan. Despite regional variations, the essential components of a temple remained broadly similar.

The main parts of a temple plan during this period can be understood as follows:

1. Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum):  
The Garbhagriha, literally meaning ‘womb chamber’, is the most sacred and central part of a temple. It is a small, dark, enclosed chamber where the main deity of the temple is enshrined. The Garbhagriha is generally constructed in such a way that it is the most protected and least accessible part of the temple. It is located at the heart of the temple, symbolizing the center of the universe or the cosmic womb from which all creation emerges. The deity is often placed on a pedestal (pitha) or base (adhishthana), and only priests are allowed to enter this inner sanctum. The architectural treatment of the Garbhagriha varied according to regional styles _______ ___ ______ ______ _____ ________ _____.
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