History:

is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent tourist spot located 29 km from Mehsana in the Indian state of Gujarat. Built in 1026–27 CE during the reign of King Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty, the complex is a splendid architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Sun or Surya. The exquisitely carved torana (archway) is the main attraction of the temple complex, along with the sanctum, a large open-air assembly hall known as the Sabha Mandap, and a stepped well known as the Surya Kund. The temple architecture follows the Solanki style of Hindu temple architecture, and stands as an example of the Maru-Gurjara style of building temples. It is one of the best temple in Gujarat which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Modhera Sun Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun god, Surya, located in Modhera village of Gujarat, India. 2. Built in the 10th century by the Solanki dynasty of the Patan ruler Bhimdev Gandhi I, Modhera Sun Temple is a part of the unique trio of Surya temples of India, the other two being Martand Sun Temple at Anantnag in Kashmir and the famous Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. 3. The temple complex is spread over an area of 58 acres and consists of three main parts - the gudhamandapa (principal temple), the sabhamandapa (assembly hall) and the kundamandapa (tank). 4. Built of sandstone and calcite, the temple is an excellent example of the Solanki style of architecture. The temple towers, shikharas and carvings on the walls depict a variety of sculptures and shapes of Gods, goddesses, animals and birds. 5. The temple is closely associated with the Patan Chalukya dynasty and its leader Bhimdev. It was the first example of Hindu temple construction and celebrated the Chalukya's triumph over the region known as Saurashtra. 6. The temple is renowned for its intricate designs, which are unlike any other Sun temple in India. One of the most striking features of the temple is the Garhi, an ornate stone base area that is surrounded by steps and carved pillars. 7. During the 11th century, the site was used as a pilgrimage and religious centre before going into decline in the 13th century. The temple was almost completely destroyed during a raid by Mahmud Ghazni in 1026. 8. The site was later restored and continues to be one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India. Here are some facts about the Gujarat temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Gujarat

Worship Method:

The worship of the Sun God in the Modhera Sun Temple follows the ancient Vedic practices. Devotees offer gifts of various fruits, flowers, rice, grains, and oil to the Sun God as part of their worship. People visiting the temple light diyas and chant holy mantras to invoke the blessings of the Sun God. The morning Aarti is held between 8 am and 11 am and the evening Aarti is performed between 5 pm and 8 pm. During these rituals, murtis or idols of the Sun God are adorned with garlands of different flowers. Devotees also offer prayers and do a parikrama (circumambulation) around the sanctum of the temple. Some of the popular mantras chanted during the worship of the Sun God in the Modhera Sun Temple are the Gayatri Mantra, Surya Gayatri, Ardhanarishwara Mantra, Amrutha Gayatri, and the Sopanam Mantra. This most visited temple in Gujarat

Opening Timing:

The Modhera Sun Temple opens from 8.00 am and closes at 6.00 pm. top temples in Gujarat

How to reach:

The Modhera Sun Temple is located in Mehsana district of Gujarat. It is situated approx. 103kms from Ahmedabad, and 43kms from Mehsana. The nearest airport to Modhera is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad which is at a distance of 110kms from Modhera. The nearest railway station to Modhera is Sun Temple Modhera railway station which is 8kms away. To reach the temple, you can hire a taxi or cab from both the railway station and the airport. The temple can also be reached by taking a bus from Ahmedabad or Mehsana to Modhera. famous temples in Gujarat