Avantipura Ruins Kashmir by Ahanger HOBO

As you continue on the Srinagar- Jammu highway, you will pass the impressive stone ruins of Avantipura. During the reign of King Avantivarman (855-883 AD), the first Vaishnaivite King of Kashmir, Kashmir witnessed unprecedented economic prosperity; agriculture flourished and the industries, commerce and trade were in a thriving condition. Extensive drainage and irrigation schemes were undertaken, and the country was freed from the danger of floods. At Avanitpura there are two sets of temple ruins, the first dedicated to Vishnu, whilst the other not a kilometer away is dedicated to Shiva. The temples built during the reign of Avantivarman are the most imposing monuments still left standing of ancient Kashmir and remain as a testament to the rich Hindu history of the area. Dating from the early 9th century date the temples have small and lovingly executed stone figures of Vishnu in a style peculiar to Kashmir and the neighbouring States of Camba and Kulu. The carvings are engaging and voluptuous and, even though the sandstone has eroded over the centuries, you can still experience the awesomeness of the huge temples and imagine the worship and meditations that would have occurred here. Unfortunately, like other sights, the stone sculpture architecturally associated with the great temples in Kashmir are almost all in a ruined state.