What is "garbhagriha"

Garbhagriha or Garbha gruha (garbha gṛha) ( Sanskrit: गर्भगॄह) is the sanctum sanctorum, the innermost sanctum of a Hindu temple where resides the murti (idol or icon) of the primary deity of the temple. Literally the word means "womb chamber", from the Sanskrit words garbha for womb and griha for house. Only 'priests' ( pujari) are allowed to enter this chamber.

Although the term is often associated with Hindu temples, it is also found in Jain and Buddhist temples.