Dashavatara Temple, Deogarh

Dashavatara Temple is a stone structure in Deogarh within Lalitpur district, known for its carved wall panels. The structure follows the Panchayatana plan, with a central sanctuary and four smaller shrines positioned at the corners of the raised platform.

The complex arose around 500 CE during Gupta rule as one of the early examples of Nagara architecture in North India. Later periods brought changes to the superstructure, though the relief work and basic layout remained largely intact.

The name refers to Vishnu's ten forms, which appear in relief panels along the outer walls. Visitors today encounter river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna at the entrance, carved as guardians of the sacred threshold.

The location about 32 kilometers (20 miles) from Lalitpur requires a short journey along local roads. Visiting between October and March is more comfortable, as temperatures are milder and the light shows the stone carvings more clearly.

The three large relief panels on the outer walls show rare narrative scenes from Vishnu myths, still clearly readable today. Each panel works like a framed picture, allowing visitors to follow the stories in detail.

Location: Lalitpur district

Inception: 5 century

Architectural style: Hindu temple architecture

GPS coordinates: 24.52694,78.24000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:13