Kiradu Temples
Kiradu, Rajasthan · Lord Shiva and Vishnu (ruin complex) · Heritage Temple
Eleventh-century sandstone temple ruins in Barmer district, listed as heritage Shiva–Vishnu sculpture by Rajasthan Tourism.
The Kiradu temple group in Barmer district is listed by Rajasthan Tourism as a ruined eleventh-century Shiva and Vishnu sandstone complex in the Thar, often called the Khajuraho of Rajasthan for its sculpture.
History
Rajasthan Tourism and state heritage descriptions place the Kiradu temples in the Solanki-era temple style of the 11th–12th centuries, later damaged but retaining notable carved panels in the desert landscape.
Stories
Ruins in the Thar
Kiradu in Barmer district holds the remains of at least five temples: a Vishnu temple, three Shiva temples and a stepwell. The Someshvara temple is the best preserved, though its spire has fallen and its hall has lost most of its roof. Inscriptions dated 1153-1178 CE were found here, but art historians disagree on the dating of the buildings, with proposals ranging from the early 10th to the 12th century.
A damaged temple repaired in 1178
An inscription of 1178 CE from the reign of the Chaulukya king Bhima II records repairs to a temple that had been damaged by the 'Turushkas'. These are identified by historians with the Ghurid forces of Muhammad of Ghor. The town was then called Kiratakupa and was ruled by small dynasties as vassals of the Chaulukyas.
Good to know
Rajasthan Tourism heritage Shiva–Vishnu temple ruins near Barmer
Solanki-era sandstone carving in the Thar
Archaeological site visit combined with western Rajasthan routing
Getting there
Nearest airport: Jodhpur. Barmer railway station — road about 35 km to Kiradu village temple ruins.
Best time to visit: Oct – Mar