---
title: "Dravida Style of Temple Architecture: Features"
description: "The Dravida style of temple architecture features a pyramidal superstructure and is essential for understanding South Indian heritage in UPSC studies."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/dravida-style-temple-architecture"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Dravida style is a South Indian temple architecture tradition defined by a pyramidal, storeyed superstructure over the sanctum and an enclosed, walled temple complex with gateway towers.
- How does the Dravida vimana differ from the Nagara shikhara?
- Why did the gopuram eventually become larger than the central vimana?
- Is the Vesara style a sub-type of Dravida or a separate order?
- Which Dravida monuments carry UNESCO World Heritage status?

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

The Dravida style is a South Indian temple architecture tradition defined by a pyramidal, storeyed superstructure over the sanctum and an enclosed, walled temple complex with gateway towers.

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In 1010 CE, the Chola emperor Rajaraja I consecrated the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur, whose roughly 66-metre granite vimana remains the canonical exemplar of mature Dravida temple architecture.

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