Jul 7, 2024
Worship of the sun is a widespread practice globally. Many ancient religions feature deities associated with natural elements, such as the Egyptian sun god Ra and the Incan sun god Inti. Temples dedicated to these sun deities can be found worldwide, attracting numerous devotees and tourists. In Hindu mythology, the sun deity Surya Dev is venerated for promoting good health and well-being.Since summer is here, this is the perfect time to visit sun temples! India is chock-full of majestic sun temples.
Image Source: Agencies
The Konark Temple is undoubtedly the most famous Sun Temple in India. Often called the Puri Sun Temple due to its closeness to the city of Lord Jagannath, the Konark Sun Temple is a remarkable showcase of Kalinga architecture. Known to the British as the Black Pagoda Temple, this Sun Temple was built in 1250 CE by Narasimhadeva I, a ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
Image Source: Agencies
Once a magnificent fusion of Gandharan, Gupta, and Chinese architectural styles, this sun temple in India now lies in ruins but remains highly significant. Constructed by the Karkota dynasty ruler Lalitaditya Muktapida, the temple was later destroyed by Sikandar Shah Miri and subsequent earthquakes. It holds great importance as a pilgrimage site for local Hindus and is also of archaeological value, with the Archaeological Survey of India designating it as a protected structure.
Image Source: Agencies
The Katarmal Sun Temple, dedicated to the sun god, stands uniquely in a mountainous region. The temple's primary deity, known as Burhaditya or Vraddhaditya, resides in Almora. Remarkably, large slabs were transported along hilly paths for its construction. Built-in the 9th century by a king from the Katyuri dynasty named Katarmal, the temple features a main shrine encircled by 44 smaller shrines, all adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings.
Image Source: Agencies
One of the renowned sun temples in Tamil Nadu is the Suryanar Kovil Temple. Built in the 11th century under the reign of Kulothunga Choladeva, this temple is dedicated to Suryan, the sun god. The main deity is depicted alongside his two wives, Usha Devi and Pratyusha Devi. As a prominent Navagraha temple in Tamil Nadu, it features separate shrines for each of the nine Navagraha deities.
Image Source: Agencies
The Modhera Sun Temple, situated in Modhera village of Mehsana district, Gujarat, India, was constructed in 1026 CE and overlooks the picturesque Pushpavati River. The temple's exterior carvings are remarkable and now serve as the backdrop for the Modhera Dance Festival. One unique feature of this Sun temple is the depiction of the Sun god wearing a belt and boots. Its architecture bears some resemblance to the Konark Sun Temple. Strategically designed, the temple ensures that the Sun's rays illuminate the image of Surya Devta during the equinoxes.
Image Source: Agencies
The Devka Sun Temple in Barmer, Rajasthan, exemplifies the state's temple architecture. Built in the 13th century, this heritage site features remarkable carvings on its idols and sculptures. Though now in ruins, the remnants suggest it was once a magnificent sun temple. Nearby, there are also temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Ganesha.
Image Source: Agencies
Located near Udaipur, this small town is renowned for its grand Jain temples. While most temples are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, there is also a Sun God temple known as Surya Narayan Mandir. Originally built around the 13th century and reconstructed in the 15th century, the temple showcases the Nagara style of architecture. The main structure stands on a raised platform and features exquisite sculptures and carvings on its walls, pillars, and ceiling.
Image Source: Agencies
According to the Archaeological Survey of India, this temple was constructed during the Gupta era, around the 7th or 8th century AD. It is an important sun temple in India, renowned for its Chhath Puja celebration. Chhath Puja is a festival dedicated to honoring the sun for its blessings on human civilization. This temple is a must-visit for experiencing this vibrant festival.
Image Source: Agencies
Situated in the charming town of Goalpara, this temple houses numerous twelve-armed Vishnu statues, Shiv lingas, images of Ganesha, and Hari Hara. Additionally, it features a circular table with 12 depictions of the Sun god alongside his father. Though a lesser-known Sun temple in India, it is gradually gaining national attention.
Image Source: Agencies
Thanks For Reading!
Read Next