Everything you need to know about the sun temple of Modhera

The Sun Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God situated in the Modhera village of Mehsana district in Gujarat, India. The temple is looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India. Due to the presence of hotels in Ahmedabad near railway station, the Sun temple is easily accessible to the tourists coming to Gujarat.

1.    History

The Sun Temple was built in 1026 during the reign of King Bhimdev of the Solanki Dynasty. The temple in Modhera shows resemblance to the Sun Temple in Konark, Orissa.

2.    Architecture

The temple is an example of high standard architectural work in that era. The temple was designed in such a manner that the first rays of the Sun fell on the idol sitting inside the temple. The temple comprises of three main parts that are Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap. The Surya Kund is a stepped tank in front of the temple which was used by devotees for holy ablutions. Sabha Mandap is a hall used for religious congregations and conferences while Guda Mandap is the place where the idol of the Sun God was kept.

3.    Things To Do

The Gujarat Government organizes the Modhera dance festival every year in the third week of January to showcase the rich cultural traditions of the 11th century.

4.    How To Reach?

The temple is easily accessible from all parts of Gujarat. Tourists staying in the budget hotels near Ahmedabad airport easily visit the temple since it is just 102kms from the station. Regular bus and taxi services are also available.

Situated on the banks of the River Pushpavati, the Sun temple at Modhera is symbolic of the rich culture that existed during the 11th century Gujarat.