Wangath Temple Complex – The Temple Complex

Wangath Temple Complex – The Temple Complex

This Temple complex lies high above the Sind Valley by the Naranag Nallah. The temple complex is located along the Kanka Nadi or the Kanaknai and is constructed of local grey granite. The Complex had two clusters of Temples. One cluster consists of six temples and the other cluster consists of eleven temples. These Temples are perfect examples of Vastu Shastra. The Temple follows the architectural style of Bumzu, Awantipora, Parihaspur, Pattan and Mattan temples.

The compound walls enclosing the clusters measuring 176 feet in length and 130 feet in width probably also dates back to the era of temple. Wangath Temple consists of two distinct groups: the first on the western side and the second on the eastern side. Each group is enclosed by a separate stone wall and lie a short distance from one another. Between the two groups of temples, stand a number of structures of a third group, the Mathas.

Western Complex:

The first group of six temples, also identified as Shiva-Jyestharudra or Shiva-Jyeshthesa, is situated within an enclosure wall. The Jyestharudra group is placed on high grounds and consists of a main temple of Jyeshthesa (Shiva) surrounded by subsidiary shrines. The principal structure is a square of 25 feet (7.6 m) externally and 17 feet (5.2 m) internally, and has two entrances opposite each other, facing the northeast and southwest. In the center of the floor is a square space which is unpaved. It marks the site of the pedestal of the image. Internally, it has a domed ceiling. Externally, the roof is pyramidal.

Eastern Complex:

The second group of temples is enclosed in a massive rectangular stone wall, pierced by a two-chambered gateway. The six temples inside the wall are in ruins and are partly buried in the ground. The largest Temple in this complex is dedicated to Bhuteswara. It has a 17 feet (5.2 m) square base internally, similar to the largest temple in the western complex. The sanctum of this Temple houses Lord Shiva in the form of Shiva Linga. The temple had two entrances one facing the rising sun and other the setting sun. There is also a plinth wall measuring 100 feet by 67 feet appears to be a base of a magnificent structure.

Central Pavilion:

Between the western and eastern complexes, lie a number of structures of a third group. This consists of the remains of a building measuring 120 feet (37 m) by 70 feet (21 m), with a height of 10 feet (3.0 m). Along the side of this structure are 30 monolithic bases or piers at intervals of 12 feet (3.7 m). This was a pillared pavilion or matha. An impressive 18 feet (5.5 m) rectangular cistern, hammered out of a boulder, is nearby.