The ruins of this superb 9th -12th century temple complex one of the finest of its kind in Rajasthan, picturesquely sited in a forest, are located 34 miles south-west of Kota Colonel Tod, visiting the Baroli Temples in ad1820 was so impressed that be proceeded to devote eleven entire pages of his book Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan to the wonders he saw there.

The Baroli Temple

The principal temple of the complex is Ghateshwara Temple with its richly ornamented porch ceilings and pillars the latter exquisitely carved with images of celestial nymphs. The shikhara, or pagoda, is profusely and delicately embellished, and there are some elegant sculpture sets around the walls: a dancing Shiva; Shiva slaying the demon, Andhaka; and Chamunda. By the sanctum doorway is another dancing Shiva, this one surrounded by Brahma Vishnu and various other mythological figures Don't miss the temple's wonderfully carved torana archway. Two other temples within the complex that are especially interesting are the 10th - century Trimurti and Mahishasuramardini temples. Near the former are the carved columns of an old gateway, decorated with gracefully proportioned maidens, devotees, and floral garland. In Mahishasuramardini Temple do take a close look at the curved pagoda, with its intricately etched motifs almost like a fine screen. There is also a picturesque little Shiva temple nearby, set inside a pool of water.