Neelakanteswara Temple is an ancient shrine situated at
Udaypur in
Madhya Pradesh. This colossal temple, dedicated to
Lord Shiva, is an outstanding example of the 11th century Parmara art and architecture.
Neelakanteswara Temple, standing on a lofty platform, is built of fine red sandstone. Most noteworthy feature of the temple is that it is built in such a way that the first rays of the morning sun falls on the Shivling, in all seasons, round the year.
The temple has a garba-griha, a sabha mandap and three pravesha mandaps (entrance porches). Its beautifully sculpted figures are similar to those in Khajuraho. The temple is adorned with well proportioned and gracefully designed spire and delicately carved medallions.
Neelakanteswara Temple, comparable with the monumental temples of Thanjavur and Bhubaneswar, reflects the architectural proficiency and extraordinary craftsmanship of the ancient days.
The temple is around 93 km from Sanchi via Vidisha and Basoda.
