Sun Temple

The Sun Temple, Modhera lies on the bank of the river Pushpavati, which is 125 kilometers from Ahmadabad in northern Gujarat. The Sun Temple in Modhera is a very old temple that is believed to be created in the Solanki era in Gujarat during the rule of Bhima-I in 1026-27. The Sun Temple, Modhera was built by Bhimadeva of the Solanki Rajput clan. The traders also contributed in building the grand Sun Temple of Modhera during this time.

The Sun Temple, Modhera is the finest examples of Indian temple architecture of its period. The Sun Temple at Modhera is dedicated to the Sun-God, Surya that stands high on a platform. The space where the main deity is kept in the Modhera Sun Temple is called the Garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorum. Each inch of the Sun Temple, Modhera has a rich carving of Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers both from inside and outside.

The Sun Temple, Modhera comprises of a rectangular step tank or Surya Kund with 108 shrines. There are shrines of Vishnu, Ganesha and Natraja beside the Surya Kund.

The interior of the Sun Temple of Modhera is pseudoperipteral with beautifully carved pillars. The lavish sculptural decoration of the pillars of the Sun Temple, Modhera are instances of the flawless craftsmanship of the Solanki artisan. The arrangements of these pillars are made in geometric shape to create an octagonal space at the center of the hall in the temple. The hall was used for ritualistic dance performances in the temple. Thus, the Sun Temple in Modhera is a glorious example of Gujarat's rich cultural heritage.