Architecture ahead of its time
As one of the earliest and finest examples of Kakatiya art, architecture, and sculpture, the Thousand Pillar Temple features stunning star-shaped and triple shrine (Trikutalayam) design featuring later Chalukyan and early Kakatiya architectural styles. The name derives from its grand array of one thousand intricately carved pillars that took 72 years to construct. You will also find a glorious sculpture of Nandi - Lord Shiva’s divine vehicle - carved out of a single rock. Other astounding design elements within this 800-year old structure include perforated screens, exquisite icons, magnificent rock cut elephants and ancient carvings.
Once inside the temple's premises, you'll be struck by its remarkable craftsmanship and the exquisite ivory carving technique within this sacred space. Kakatiya sculptors' skills can be seen everywhere: from the meticulously carved pillars to the lathe-turned dolerite and granite stone sculptures located within its Nava Rang Mandapa or hall.
Another intriguing aspect of the Thousand Pillar Temple is its distinctive orientation. While most temples in India face east or North, this particular one was intentionally chosen to face south; Kakatiyas were devotees of Lord Shiva and intended for its first rays to fall directly onto their Shiva Lingam.
