Sacred Geometry and Climate Responsiveness: Sustainable Techniques in Ancient Indian Temple Design

Sacred Geometry and Climate Responsiveness: Sustainable Techniques in Ancient Indian Temple Design

Volume: 09 | Issue: 01 | Year 2026 | Subscription

International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology

Received Date: 09/06/2025

Acceptance Date: 02/07/2026

Published On: 2026-02-15

First Page: 13

Last Page: 18

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By: Rohan Koner.

Sustainability Consultant, Department of Environmental Sustainability, Oxford Brookes University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between climate-responsive design and sacred geometry in the construction of ancient Indian temples, emphasizing its continued significance for modern sustainable building techniques. Based on the ideas of Vaastu Shastra and Shilpa Shastra, these temples use careful geometric design, including yantras, fractal patterns, and mandalas, to maximize spatial utility and conform to cosmic order. Renowned temples, like Kailasa, Konark Sun Temple, and Brihadisvara, are prime examples of how natural adaptations and metaphysical symbolism can co-exist. The architectural plan integrates passive climate-responsive strategies such as raised mandapas and courtyards for natural ventilation, temple tanks and drainage networks for water management, thermally insulating materials, and strategic sun orientation. Locally produced materials that minimize embodied energy and provide climate adaptation, such as granite, laterite, and timber, further improve sustainability. The microclimates created by these tactics work together to control humidity, preserve thermal comfort, and increase resistance to weather extremes. This report highlights how ancient Indian temples served as both communal and spiritual havens, exhibiting an ecological wisdom that is becoming increasingly important in tackling today’s environmental issues. It does this by conducting a thorough review of literature and presenting case studies. It illustrates how combining sacred geometry with practical environmental design produces long-lasting, sustainable architectural environments in addition to improving aesthetic and spiritual experiences. Modern planners and architects can create durable, energy-efficient buildings that align with ecological demands and cultural values by revisiting and modifying these tried-and-true ideas. The significance of the ancient Indian architectural legacy as a wealth of resources for developing modern sustainable design globally is affirmed by the research.

Keywords: Climate-responsive architecture, sacred geometry, sustainable temple design, traditional Indian architecture, Vaastu Shastra

Citation:

How to cite this article: Rohan Koner Sacred Geometry and Climate Responsiveness: Sustainable Techniques in Ancient Indian Temple Design. International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology. 2026; 09(01): 13-18p.

How to cite this URL: Rohan Koner, Sacred Geometry and Climate Responsiveness: Sustainable Techniques in Ancient Indian Temple Design. International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology. 2026; 09(01): 13-18p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/uncategorized/article=25120

Refrences:

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