Search This Website

Sun Temple in Modhera Gujarat India

Here is Some Information about Sun Temple Modhera Gujarat India.


Location:On the banks of Pushpavati river in Modhera, Gujarat
Built in:1026 AD
Built by:King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty
Dedicated to:Lord Surya (Sun God)
Attraction:Marvelous architectural work
Significance:One of the few Sun Temples across the country
Photography : Allow
Entry : All Time
Religion: Hinduism
Nearest Airport :Ahmedabad 102 kms.
Nearest railway station : Mehsana.

Modhera is famous for its Sun Temple.The Sun Temple is one of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D the temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone-steeped tank.

Modhera Sun temple is one of the most famous Sun temples in the world. This temple is an evidence of the glorious ancient history of Gujarat. Tourists and devotees from all around the world visit this place and are spell-bound on seeing the magnificent sculptures and architecture.

Modhera Sun Temple History

Modhera Sun temple was built in 1026 A.D by King Bhimdev (1) of Solanki dynasty. Various scriptures gives different evidences of this fact. This temple depicts the essence of ancient times. The sculptures and architecture present in this temple are still magnificent after all these years. In the present times, prayers are not offered in this temple.

Ala-Uddin-Khilji invaded this temple and broke many idols and sculptures. He looted this temple for money which destroyed this temple to a great extent. This temple is now under the supervision of Archaeological Survey of India.

Architecture of Sun Temple Modhera

The brilliant architecture of the temple is one of its own class. The temple encompasses three different yet axially-aligned and integrated constituents. As per the Konark Temple, this shrine is designed in a manner, so that the first rays of the Sun cast on the image of the Lord Surya. The Temple was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni; still the architectural grandeur is not vanished. No matter what is left, yet the remnants provide a great enchantment to behold.

Erected on a high platform, the Temple appears majestic with its grand structure. However, the spires are out of the scene, but the 'Toranas' (Archways) that lead to the main halls overshadow the absence of spires or shikhars. The exterior walls are engraved with intricate carvings, boasting about the mastery of art in those times. Every single inch of the structure is covered with the sculptural patterns of Gods, Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. Actually, the Sun Temple is divided into three parts namely Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap.

Surya Kund
Surya Kund is a deep stepped tank in the front of the temple. The tank was named after the Lord Surya (Sun God). In the earlier times, this 100 sq meter rectangular tank was used to store pure water. The devotees used to take a halt here for ceremonial ablutions before moving towards the temple. Not less than 108 shrines mark the steps of this tank including the shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Sheetala Mata and many others. In front of this tank, a huge 'torana' (archway) leads to the Sabha Mandap.

Sabha Mandap
Literally, Sabha Mandap refers to an assembly hall where religious gatherings and conferences are conducted. This hall is open from all the four sides and has 52 delicately carved pillars. The intricate carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata (Indian Epics) and scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. In order to get into the Sanctum Sanctorum, one has to cross the passage with pillars and arches.

Guda Mandap
Guda Mandap is the sanctum sanctorum that is supported by a lotus-base plinth. Once, this hall used to house the idol of the Sun God. The designing of the hall was done in a way, so that the idol gets the first glimpse of the Sun at equinoxes. However, the idol was plundered by Mahmud Ghazni yet the walls represent the Sun God in his 12 different facets of each month. The carved walls also depict the aspects of human life like the vicious circle of birth and death. The façade of this hall was renovated in the recent years, despite the fact that the roof over the Guda Mandap had already been shattered.

Festival Celebrated at Sun Temple Modhera

Modhera dance festival is the major festival that is observed by the Sun Temple. This dance festival is organized to keep the Indian traditions and culture alive. It is held in the third week of January every year. The classical dance forms in the premises of this temple revive the imperial ambiance during the period. Gujarat Tourism organizes this event to promote tourism at this place.

How to Reach Sun Temple Modhera

By Road :State transport buses and private luxury coaches are available to reach Modhera from various cities of Gujarat.

By Rail :Nearest Railway Station is in Mehsana which is 26 kms away from Modhera.

By Air : Nearest airport is in Ahmedabad at 102 kms.

Picture Gallery of Sun Temple Modhera 











Google Map of  Sun Temple Modhera




Releted Links 

Konark Sun Temple

Get New Updates Every day Like This Page