Remains of ancient monolithic temple found in Himachal

The famous Panchvaktra Mahadev temple, located 158 km from here, is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Archaeologists have discovered the remains of an ancient monolithic temple in Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district.

"We have discovered the remains of a rare, ancient monolithic Ardhnarishwar temple on the banks of the Beas river near the Panchvaktra Mahadev temple in Mandi town," archaeologist O.C. Handa told IANS.

The famous Panchvaktra Mahadev temple, located 158 km from here, is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

"The Ardhnarishwar temple was carved out of a sandstone rock like the famous rock-cut temples at Masrur in Kangra district," he said.

Handa said that the temple remained buried under the sand for centuries. Strong water currents had washed away the silt deposits on the temple