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The number 0f Shikhara temples in Chamba
leaving aside the miniature ones, does not exceed fourteen (ten of
which are found in the town), but it would be difficult to count
those
of
the Hill type, which are scattered everywhere along the mountain
slopes and in the valleys. Their construction is extremely simple.
They consist 0f a small cella, usua1ly raised on a square plinth,
and built 0f layers of rubble masonry alternating with beams of
cedar wood. This is surmounted by a sloping roof of slates or wooden
singles supported by wooden posts, which form a verandah or
procession-path round the shrine. Of the high pagoda-like roof met
with in
Kashmir, Kul1u and Nepal no instances are found in Chamba. It is
possible that some temples, e. g., that at Chhatrahi, originally had
a roof of this kind. Owing to climatic conditions the roofs of these
buildings have often to be renewed. It must, however, be admitted
that they are well calculated to shelter the shrine against the
heavy rain and snow fall peculiar to the hills. Though simple in
their architecture, some 0f these Hill temples are of great interest
owing to the elaborate decoration of their facades, ceilings and
pillars. |
