Question

Using the scale in the plan, measure the distance from the main gopuram to the central shrine. What would have been the easiest access from the tank to the shrine?

Answer 1

1. The measurement of the distance from the main gopuram to the central shrine is as follows:
   
   • Scale Reference: The scale bar at the bottom left indicates that a specific segment equals 30 meters.
   • Measurement: Measuring along the central east-west axis from the main gateway (the black-shaded gopuram on the right) to the inner sanctum (labelled shrine on the left) spans roughly 4.5 to 5 times the length of the 30-meter scale bar.
   • Final Calculated Distance: The total distance is approximately 135 to 150 meters.
2. The easiest access from the tank to the shrine is as follows:
   
   • Location: The large water tank is located on the northern side (top of a plan of the Virupaksha temple).
   • Easiest Route: The most direct and easiest way to reach the central shrine from the tank is to enter southward through the northern gate structure directly into the large open pillared courtyard or columned corridors, which immediately lead straight into the main assembly hall (mandapa) preceding the central sanctum.