the name given to Hindu and Buddhist temples. The temple proper is generally of pyramidal form, of a number of stories, with curved roof, and embellished with extraordinary splendor. Connected with it may be various other structures, open courts and a gateway, the whole forming architecturally an imposing group. In China the pagoda is not always connected with a temple, but is often a memorial building. Pagodas are numerous, not only in Hindustan, but also in Burmah, Siam and China.