HARSHNATH TEMPLE

This Siva temple, situated a top the Harsaagiri hill, was built according to an inscription dated A.D. 973 by the Saiva ascetic Bhavarakta, alias Allata, during the reign of the Chahamana king Vigraharaja I. It was surrounded by numerous sub-shirnes, which like the main temple have been in utter ruins. In spite of its dilapidated condition the main temple is noteworthy for the excellent quality of structures and relief carvings.  It faces east and consists on plan of pancharatha sanctum, joined to a rangamandapa with four  central pillars and lateral transepts with kakshasana balustrades preceded by a separate nandimandapa and a distant torana in the same axis.  Its pillars are profusely carved while inside the sanctum are sculptured on the west wall  a central image of standing Parvati (labelled Vikata) engaged  in panchagnitapa, flanked by female attendants swaying with lyrical grace.