Sun Temple

The Sun Temple of Modhera was Built in 1026-27 A.D. during the reign of King Bhimdev I of Patan. The temple is dedicated to Surya or the Sun God. Although it bears a dilapidated look, it is still a magnificent specimen of the excellent creativity of Gujarat’s architects of the bygone days. Modhera’s Sun temple is placed in such a manner that at the equinoxes the rising sun strikes the images in the place of worship. It also includes an amusement park, a museum, a cafeteria, picture gallery and library. The canvas on the walls and pillars portray the incidents from the Ramayan and the Mahabharat, and forms of gods and goddesses and the approach to life of the people of that time. An stimulating iconography is one with three heads, three arms and three legs.

The deity:

Lord Surya or the sun god is the primary deity in the Sun Temple.