About Avantiswami Temple Ruins
Avantiswami Temple Ruins is a 9th-century Hindu temple complex located in Awantipora, Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir, on the banks of the Jhelum River. Built by King Avantivarman, founder of the Utpala dynasty, the site comprises two temples dedicated to Vishnu (Avantiswami) and Shiva (Avantisvara). Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is notable for its grand stone architecture, intricate carvings and historical importance as an early Kashmiri temple style example.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an open-air archaeological site with extensive stone ruins, including foundations, colonnaded peristyle, gateways, and carved pillars and sculptures. The complex is set on a plain near the Jhelum River with views of surrounding mountains. Visitors can walk among the excavated temple platforms, view detailed stone carvings and relief work, read ASI information boards, and explore both the Avantiswami (Vishnu) and nearby Avantisvara (Shiva) temple remains within the same complex.
Key highlights
- 01
9th-century temple complex built during the reign of King Avantivarman (855-883 CE)
- 02
Two distinct temples - Avantiswami dedicated to Vishnu and Avantisvara dedicated to Shiva
- 03
Classic Kashmiri Hindu temple architecture with massive stone blocks and Greek-influenced colonnade
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Intricately carved pillars, sculptures and ornamental motifs preserved in ruins