Answer–  The evolution of different styles of temple architecture in various parts of India was an important cultural development. The two significant styles of temple architecture evolved in India such as Nagara style in North India  and Dravidian style in South India. Another important style of temple architecture which comprised the features of both Nagara and Dravidian style of temple architecture, emerged know as  Vesara style of temple architecture.

• Nagara Style of Temple Architecture: 

Tye basic firm of the temple architecture comprises the following features:

1. Garbhagriha – literally meaning ‘womb -chamber,  is the sanctum of temple in which the main deity of the temple is kept.

2. The pillared hall in front of the Garbhagriha which also incorporates space for a large number of worshippers and is known as mandap.

3. The upper structure of temple is known as Shikhar .

4. The vahan is the vehicle of the temple’s main deity.

Dravidian style of temple architecture :

1. The Dravidian style of temple construction was confined largely to southern region of India and it reached it’s zenith under the periods of Cholas.

2. The Dravidian temples are enclosed within a compound wall.

3. The front wall has an entrance gateway in it’s center, which is known as a gopuram.

4. The shape of the main temple tower known as vimana is like a stepped pyramid that rises up geometrically rather than the curving Shikhara of North India .

While both styles share the purpose of serving as religious centers, their architectural elements, regional influences, and design aesthetics set them apart. The Nagara style’s curvilinear spire differs from the Dravidian style’s pyramid-shaped towers, showcasing the rich diversity and cultural heritage of temple architecture in India.