Question 1

What is Ratha architecture style?

Accepted Answer

Ratha architecture refers to temples or structures designed to resemble chariots, often monolithic and carved from a single rock, symbolizing a deity's vehicle and power.

Question 2

Where is Ratha architecture style architecture found?

Accepted Answer

Ratha architecture style architecture is primarily found in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha. There are 2 heritage sites documented with this architectural style.

Question 3

When was Ratha architecture style architecture used?

Accepted Answer

Ratha architecture style architecture was used during 7th-8th century CE, 7th century CE onwards. It is associated with the Pallava, Chola, Vijayanagara, Ganga dynasty/period.

Question 4

What materials are used in Ratha architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

Ratha architecture style architecture typically uses Granite, Stone, Wood, Bronze. These materials are characteristic of this architectural style and reflect the construction techniques of the period.

Question 5

Which heritage sites use Ratha architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

There are 2 heritage sites documented with Ratha architecture style architecture.  You can explore these sites on the Inheritage Foundation website.

Title	Ratha architecture style 4.5/5(Based on 2 heritage sites) Rare 4.5/5(Based on 2 heritage sites)
Description	Ratha architecture refers to temples or structures designed to resemble chariots, often monolithic and carved from a single rock, symbolizing a deity's vehicle and power.
Also Known As	Dravidian temple rock-cut monolithic ratha. Dravidian Architecture Pallava Architecture Rock-cut Architecture Rathas (Chariot-shaped Temples) Gopurams Mandapas Vimana South Indian Temple Style Dravidian Temple Architecture with Straits Settlements Adaptations Dravidian Gopuram Straits Settlement Vernacular Chariot Procession Architecture
Tags	Chariot temples Monolithic rathas Dharmaraja Ratha Arjuna Ratha Bhima Ratha Ratha Chariot Procession Festival Utsava
Style ID	`INHF-STY-1653463519-10:46:55:06:01:19:RAS`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/ratha-architecture-style
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/ratha-architecture-style`
Total Sites	2
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 19, 2025
Last Updated	November 29, 2025

Time Periods	7th-8th century CE 7th century CE onwards
Dynasties	Pallava Chola Vijayanagara Ganga

Sacred Contexts	Hindu temples Temple festivals Processions Ritualistic events
Associated Deities	Shiva Vishnu Durga Devi Surya

Primary Materials	Granite Stone Wood Bronze
Architectural Features	Chariot-shaped temples Monolithic structures Pillared halls Sculptural details Wheels Horses Chariot-like form Sculptural panels Processional routes

Title	Type	Notes
The Shore Temple at Mamallapuram	Article	Specific study of the Shore Temple's architecture and history.
The Art of South India: India & Southeast Asia	Book	Explores the cultural context of chariot processions and temple cars.

Ratha architecture style

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Site Name	Status	Confidence
Shore Temple Mahabalipuram	Secondary	100%
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple George Town Penang	Secondary	100%