




The Sas Bahu Temples, also known as the Sahastrabahu Temples, are a pair of exquisite 11th-century temples located within the Gwalior Fort complex. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, these temples are a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship and architectural ingenuity of the time.
Label: Must Visit
How to reach: By road
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Time Required: 1 Hour
Entry Fee: -
Contrary to what their name suggests, the temples have nothing to do with a mother-in-law (Sas) and daughter-in-law (Bahu). The name is a colloquial adaptation of "Sahastrabahu," which means "one with a thousand arms," a reference to a form of Lord Vishnu. The larger of the two temples is dedicated to Sahastrabahu Vishnu, while the smaller one was likely built for other deities.
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Both temples are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various aspects of Hindu mythology. The walls and pillars are covered with detailed engravings of gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and scenes from epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. The architecture showcases a blend of different styles, with a focus on elaborate ornamentation and geometric precision.

The temples' unique feature is their layout, which includes a central hall (mandapa), a vestibule (antarala), and the main sanctum (garbhagriha). The ceilings of the mandapa are particularly noteworthy, featuring beautifully carved lotus motifs and other floral patterns. Despite the passage of time, the craftsmanship of these temples continues to impress visitors and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.