Modhera Sun Temple reflects the essence of ancient era. This temple was built in 1026 AD while has idols which are magnificent. The architecture of this temple is spell bounding even today. Now day’s prayers are not done in this temple, and in fact this temple is under the supervision and regulation of Archeological Survey of India.

Modhera Sun Temple is located on the banks of Pushpavati River which is 102 km from Ahmadabad and 25 km from Mehsana. The temple is surrounded by terra formed garden that has many flowering trees where birds chirp during the entire day. This exclusively carved temple has complex which is magnificently carved in the art of masonry. This temple is very famous in Gujarat and enjoys immense significance. The temple has no shikhar but has a sabha mandap, pradakshina patha and a scantum.

Significance of the Temple

As per the sources, the area near Modhera was known as Dharmaranya. It is said that after defeating Ravana, Lord Rama asked Sage Vasistha to take him and show the place of pilgrimage where Lord Rama could go and purify himself as he had killed a Brahmin. Sage Vasistha then showed him Dharmarayna which was then near the contemporary town of Modhera.

Here, Lord Rama settled in Modherak and conducted yagna. He then established a village which was named as Sitapur. The Modhera Sun Temple was built by King Bhimdev in 1026 AD. The traders and royalty jointly contributed to the building of this grand temple. The temple is so designed that the very first rays of the sun fall on the image of Surya. This Modhera Sun Temple is partially in ruins and it is said this is because it was destroyed by Allauddin Khilji.

Architecture of Temple

The Modhera Sun Temple has exceptional architecture. This temple has 3 different axially aligned together with integrated elements namely – Guda Mandap, Sabha Mandap and Surya Kund. Surya Kund is also known by the name of Ramakund. It is a large rectangular stepped tank which measures 53.6X36.6 m and is known to be used for storing pure water. This kund is a perfect example of geometry. The stone composition has dazzling pattern.

The other is the hall of religious gatherings, called the Sabha Mandap. It is notable pillared hall, which is open from all sides while has 52 intricately carved pillars that represents 52 weeks in one year. The carvings reflect episodes from legendry epics – Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Krishna Lila. The temple also has a sanctum sanctorum while its exterior has twelve different postures of Sun God.

Time to Visit

The best time visit Modhera Sun Temple is from October to March.

Nearby Places

Taranga and Khumbharia Jain Temples, Danta

Built by Vimal Shah, these Jain temples date back during the 12th century. There are five different Jain temples which one can find here and these are – Parshawanath, Shantinath, Sambhavnath, Neminath, and Mahavir. These temples are built artistically with white marble and are located approximately 40 kms from Taranga Hills. They portray comprehensive carvings of musicians, horsemen, angles, goddesses and gods.

Monuments at Vadnagar, Danta

Vadnagar in district Mehsana is another tourist attraction that attracts the visitors to come and visit this place. This place is mainly perched on a hillock which has artistically formed owing to the different layers of buildings which were constructed and destroyed in ancient times.

Dharoi Dam, Danta

Constructed in the year 1978, this dam is one of the major dams on River Sabarmati in Mehsana district. The entire area covers the upper sub basin while the catchment area of this river is called Dharoi Sub basin.

Poshina, Danta

A village about 18 kms away from the Ambaji in Sabarkantha district, Poshina is considered a perfect place to witness and experience the tribal culture. Darbargarh Poshina is an impeccable palace that is acts as home while is also known for blending modern amenities with antique decorations. It has traditional cuisines which it offers to its guests.

How to Reach the Temple

• Through Air – The nearby airport Ahmadabad International Airport is located approximately 102 kms away from the Modhera Sun Temple.  
• Through Road – State transport buses together with private luxury buses connect Ahmadabad to Modhera Sun Temple which is just 2 hours away. Modhera Sun Temple connects to different cities and towns of Gujarat.
• Through Railways – The nearby Railway Station is Mehsana which is the only closet railway station to Modhera Sun Temple.