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Temple Architecture·Planning worksheet

Temple Documentation Planning Worksheet

Plan the documentation of a temple as a working, living site — not just a building. A temple combines architecture, sculpture, inscriptions and ritual use, and each needs a different method and a different kind of access. Use this worksheet to inventory the elements, choose a method for each, and phase the work around ritual timings.

Free to use. Print, or use Print → Save as PDF to download and fill.

How to use this worksheet

A temple is documented well only when the plan respects that it is in worship. The sanctum may be off-limits, certain areas may be accessible only at certain times, and photography of the deity may be restricted. Plan the method around these realities rather than treating them as obstacles discovered on the day.

Walk the temple with the archaka or trust representative before filling this in. Record the inventory, agree what can be documented and how, and phase the work so the busiest ritual times are avoided.

1 · Temple identification

Temple name and presiding deity
Location (village / town, district, state)
AdministrationHR&CE / trust / private / ASI-protected
Contact — archaka / trustee / EO
Approximate period / style

2 · Element inventory and method

List each element and the method planned for it — a starter set is suggested below
ElementMethodAccess constraintPriority

3 · Ritual and access constraints

Areas off-limits to the documentation team
Photography restrictions (deity, sanctum, festivals)
Ritual timings to avoiddaily pujas, abhishekam, festival days
Footwear / dress / conduct requirements

4 · Phasing plan

Sequence the work around access windows
PhaseElementsMethodDurationTeam

5 · Deliverables

Agreed deliverables and formats
Who receives the recordtrust, HR&CE, conservation architect, archive
Any restrictions on publication or sharing