Nagara and Dravida are two distinct styles of temple architecture in India, each with unique features that reflect regional and cultural differences.

Nagara Style:

1. Location: Primarily found in northern India, especially in regions influenced by Indo-Aryan culture.
2. Shikhara: Characterized by a tall and curvilinear tower (shikhara) that gradually increases in height. It symbolizes Mount Meru, the mythical abode of the gods.
3. Amalaka and Kalasha: Typically topped with an amalaka (a stone disk) and kalasha (a decorative water pot) at the pinnacle of the shikhara.
4. Plan: Often has a rectangular or square plan with multiple projections and corners.
5. Entrance: Prominent entrance leading into a pillared hall (mandapa) and sanctum (garbhagriha), where the main deity is enshrined.
6. Decorations: Elaborate carvings of deities, celestial beings, and mythological motifs adorn the temple walls and pillars.

Dravida Style:

1. Location: Predominantly found in southern India, particularly in regions influenced by Dravidian culture.
2. Vimana: Characterized by a pyramidal tower (vimana) above the sanctum, which is often smaller and compact compared to Nagara temples.
3. Shikhara and Kalasha: The vimana is topped with a dome (shikhara) and kalasha at the summit.
4. Enclosure: Temple complex enclosed within a series of walls and gateways (gopurams), which are highly decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and epic narratives.
5. Layout: Emphasizes inner sanctity and facilitates circumambulation (pradakshina) around the sanctum.
6. Materials and Style: Often built using granite and features a horizontal moulding with a series of moulded cornices.