The Earthquake-Proof Ancient Temple of Kakanmath

There are structures so strong that even an earthquake cannot shatter them. Built a millennium ago they were definitely using technologies that were similar to modern ones or even better.

So it would be foolish to say that medieval people were backward. In India 800 AD was a time when temple building flourished. My article on the golden quadrilateral of Indian art in stone is a fine example of this.

Some temples in India had to survive the elements while a few others additionally the invaders then there are those unfortunate that experienced fatal earthquakes. The Kakanmath temple near Gwalior is one such example that withstood an earthquake a few hundred years ago yet stands tall.

An interesting outcome is the outer layer of stones fell off revealing the structure on which the temple was built. A lot of carvings on the stone which adorned the temple are still intact but the joints are still visible.

Here’s a closer look at the temple that almost reduced to ruins but surviving nevertheless due to the superb technology in use hundreds of years ago.

There is also an interesting gate outside the temple the columns and beam still survive.

The rubble of the fallen structure can still be seen scattered around.

The Kakanmath temple is so captivating, one does not feel like leaving it even after spending a long time admiring the majestic structure and appreciating the carvings in stone. By looking closely at the carvings one can feel and communicate with the people who carved them hundreds of years ago and thank them for such a wonderful gift for generations to come.

accessiblity_64.pngAccessibility Features

:heavy_check_mark: Ramp Access.

:heavy_check_mark: Wheelchair-accessible Entrance.

:heavy_check_mark: Wheelchair-accessible Restroom/Toilet.

:heavy_check_mark: Wheelchair-accessible Seating.

:heavy_check_mark: Wheelchair-accessible Parking.

Travel Tips - How to Reach

  • Kakanmath is accessible from Gwalior by road and the recommended route is via Morena.
  • The nearest tow is Sihonia 2 km away from the temple which has some eateries and shops to purchase water bottles or snacks.

Nearby Attractions

While you are still around Gwalior, here are a few recommended places

  1. Gwalior Fort,
  2. Sahastra-Bahu Temple,
  3. Gopachal Parbat,
  4. Bateshwar Temple,
  5. Garhi Padhavali
  6. Chaturbhuj Temple where the number Zero was invented.

Until then… Happy guiding :blush:

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Too good @TusharSuradkar Sir,

Every post of yours offers some really good knowledge. I was not aware of this fact about Kakanmath. Feeling proud of such sculptures and on our ancestors who made them.

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Thanks, buddy.

I am glad you liked it @Tushar18

~Greetings from New Delhi

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@TusharSuradkar

Es ist auch ein besonders schöner alter und gut erhaltener Tempel mit diesen wunderbaren Darstellungen.

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Very interesting… dear @TusharSuradkar

Wow… Earthquake Proof temple built so many decades ago!

Amazing…

Thanks for sharing these details…

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