Sun Temple, Modhera

This article is about the temple of the sun at Modhera. For the list of sun temples in the world, see Temple of the Sun.

Modhera Sun Temple
The temple complex
Sun Temple, Modhera is located in Gujarat
Sun Temple, Modhera
Sun Temple, Modhera
Location in Gujarat
Alternative namesModhera Surya Mandir
General information
LocationModhera, Mehsana district, Gujarat
CountryIndia
Coordinates23°35′1.7″N 72°7′57.67″E / 23.583806°N 72.1326861°E / 23.583806; 72.1326861
Technical details
MaterialSandstone
DesignationsASI Monument of National Importance (N-GJ-158)
Sun Temple, Modhera
Plan of temple complex: (from top to bottom) Gudhamandapa, the shrine hall; Sabhamandapa, the assembly hall and Kunda, the reservoir
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DeitySurya
FestivalsModhera Dance Festival
Features
  • Tower: Ruined
  • Temple tank: Suryakund
Architecture
TypeMāru-Gurjara architecture (Chaulukya)
CreatorBhima I
Completedafter 1026-27 CE (shrine proper)
Specifications
Direction of façadeEast-facing
Monument(s)3
InscriptionsYes

The Sun Temple of Modhera is a Hindu temple dedicated to the solar deity Surya located at Modhera village of Mehsana district, Gujarat, India. It is situated on the bank of the river Pushpavati. It was built after 1026-27 CE during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty. No worship is offered now and it is a protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple complex has three components: Gūḍhamanḍapa, the shrine hall; Sabhamanḍapa, the assembly hall and Kunḍa, the reservoir. The halls have intricately carved exterior and pillars. The reservoir has steps to reach the bottom and numerous small shrines.