Shikharas are the towering spires found on the roofs of many Hindu temples, particularly in the northern regions of India. They are designed to symbolize the mythical Mount Meru, which is considered the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. Shikharas are often intricately carved and can vary in height and style, reflecting the architectural traditions of different regions. These structures serve both aesthetic and spiritual purposes, drawing the eye upward and representing the connection between the earthly and the divine. The design of a shikhara typically culminates in a finial, which may be adorned with symbols or deities, enhancing the temple's sacred significance.