Shamlaji Temple, Shamlaji

Shamlaji Temple in Shamlaji is located on the banks of the Meshvo river in the valley surrounded by wooded hills. This 16th century temple is known for its artistic beauty in sculptures. The temple is built in Chaulukyan architectural style.

The temple built of white sandstone and brick is of two stories, supported on pillars. Above the shrine is a pyramid-based tower that rises into a spire like a high-shouldered cone with flattened sides. The forepart of the roof consists of a number of small domes springing from a flat roof.

The temple is divided into three parts: Sabha Mandap, Antaraal and Garbha Griha. The steps lead to the entrance hall; and this also faces straight into the Garbha Griha with the Image of the Lord Vishnu.

On the external wall the temple is richly carved with beautiful sculptures of various sizes. Running right round the building is a fringe of elephants' heads carved in stone. Above this is a frieze full of figures in bass-relief, men on horseback with bows, and animals. At every corners in the frieze of elephants there are two twin elephants ejecting out.

There are several ventilated stone windows in the temple that has been carved all around the temple. They have beautiful patterns that let sufficient sun light into the temple.

There are several carvings of deity in various forms all around the temple that stand out for their craftsmanship and beauty.