---
title: "Antarala: Temple Vestibule Explained | Model Diplomat"
description: "Antarala is the transitional vestibule in Hindu temples connecting the mandapa to the garbhagriha, crucial for understanding temple architecture in UPSC exams."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/antarala"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Antarala is the small transitional vestibule in a Hindu temple that connects the outer assembly hall (mandapa) to the inner sanctum (garbhagriha) housing the deity.
- How does the antarala differ from the mandapa in a Hindu temple plan?
- Is the antarala present in every Hindu temple?
- What is the relationship between the antarala and the shukanasa?
- Why is the antarala important for UPSC General Studies Paper I?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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Example

In the Kandariya Mahadeva temple at Khajuraho (Chandela dynasty, c. 1025–1050 CE), the antarala forms the narrow vestibule linking the pillared mahamandapa to the garbhagriha enshrining the Shiva linga.

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