Mahadeva Temple, Chandreh –
The Temple
The temple is built on a high platform. The temple consists of circular sanctum, antrala and mandapa. The sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga within a circular yonipitha. The shikara of the sanctum is decorated with intricate carvings of chaitya arches. The shikara is connected to a low protrusion tower called Sukanasi (tower over the antrala, called nose of the main tower).
The sukanasi is decorated with friezes of elephants, kirtimukhas and human figurines. A sculpture of Ghadiyal (crocodile) has been carved in the temple for draining out the water of Shiva Linga. It is said that there is a hidden tunnel inside the temple that will connect the temple to the nearby Son River.
Shaiva Monastery:
There is an ancient double storied Shaiva Monastery situated next to the temple. It is square on plan. It consists of central open paved courtyard and pillared open verandah around it. There are two inscriptions found at the entrance of the monastery records the construction of the temple and monastery.
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