Modhera Sun Temple

Modhera Sun Temple Mahadev Mandir

One of the most exquisitely-sculpted temples in India, the Sun Temple in Modhera Gujarat is a prominent shrine dedicated to Hindu Sun God. Even though no worship is offered here anymore, Modhera holds a special place in the history and culture of Gujarat

The sun temple is a complete package of interesting history, exquisite architecture, and abundant glimpses of Indian culture. If you love art, architecture, history, then this Sun Temple in Gujarat is the perfect Indian destination for you.

the Modhera Sun Temple went back longer than the Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. King Bhimdev of the Chalukya dynasty, who were believed to be descendants of Lord Surya, built the Modhera temple between 1026-27 AD. Konark Sun Temple was constructed later in the 13th century.

The temple at Modhera is locally referred to as Modhera Surya Mandir. “Surya” means sun and “mandir” refers to temple.

One historical tale tells us that Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the city of Modhera around 1025. The army of King Bhimdev faced him at Modhera, But there were not very successful in warding off the attack.

Mahmud plundered the sun temple left with his loot. The Chalukyas rebuilt it soon after only to be re-attacked by Allaudin Khilji on a later date when it was completely destroyed.

There is another story which tells us that Mahmud of Ghazni actually attacked the temple after it was built and left with the original idol of the deity. The temple was pillaged and plundered by Allauddin Khilji at a later date and left in ruins.

Modhera Sun Temple is divided into 3 axially-aligned parts: the main temple called the Guda Mandapa, an assembly hall called the Sabha Mandapa, and a stepwell-styled tank called the Surya Kund. The temple is built in Maru-Gurjarat style, also known as the Chalukya styl