Modhera, in Gujarat, is home to the 11th-century Sun Temple built by the Solanki dynasty. This architectural marvel aligns with the rising sun and features the stunning Surya Kund. It's a must-visit for history lovers and culture seekers, especially during the Modhera Dance Festival in January.

Modhera

Nestled on the banks of the Pushpavati River in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, Modhera is a small village that guards one of India's most spectacular yet often overlooked architectural gems - the Sun Temple of Modhera. Built in the 11th century by King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty, this temple is a glowing testament to India’s rich heritage, intricate artistry, and celestial alignment.

The Glory of the Sun Temple

Unlike many temples where devotion is focused inward, the Sun Temple of Modhera is designed to worship outward — facing the rising sun. Every aspect of its layout, carvings, and placement is a poetic dialogue between man, art, and the cosmos.

Architecture: The temple complex is divided into three parts - the Gudhamandapa (main shrine), the Sabhamandapa (assembly hall), and the Surya Kund (stepped water tank). Built in the Māru-Gurjara style, the temple is adorned with exquisite carvings depicting scenes from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and daily life in ancient India.

Surya Kund: Perhaps the most visually striking feature, this large stepped tank served both spiritual and practical purposes. Devotees would purify themselves before offering prayers. The symmetry of the steps and the shrines surrounding the tank create an atmosphere of sublime peace.

Solar Alignment: During the equinox, the first rays of the sun illuminate the sanctum - a precise and awe-inspiring alignment that showcases ancient India's astronomical knowledge.

A Temple Without Worship

Interestingly, the Sun Temple of Modhera is no longer an active place of worship. After invasions in the 13th century, particularly by Mahmud of Ghazni, the main idol was destroyed. it is preserved as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

And yet, even in silence, the temple speaks - of forgotten dynasties, cosmic devotion, and a golden age of craftsmanship.

Modhera Dance Festival

To relive its cultural vibrancy, the Gujarat Tourism Department organizes the Modhera Dance Festival every January, right in the backdrop of the temple. Classical dancers from across India perform under the open sky, echoing the glory of the past. If you're planning a visit, time your trip around this festival for an unforgettable experience.

How to Reach Modhera

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad (around 100 km away).
  • By Train: Mehsana is the closest railway station, connected to major cities in Gujarat.
  • By Road: Modhera is well-connected by road and can be a comfortable day trip from Ahmedabad or Patan.

Nearby Attractions

  • Rani ki Vav, Patan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this intricately carved stepwell is just an hour’s drive from Modhera.
  • Mehsana: Known for its temples and the famed Dudhsagar Dairy.