Famous Sun Temples in India: India is home to many famous and miraculous Hindu temples. Among these are the world-renowned Sun Temples, some of which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Sun God is considered the deity of energy, who channels life-sustaining energy to Earth. The Sun God holds a prominent place among the five principal deities in Hinduism. Today, we’ll explore some of the famous Sun Temples in India…
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Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple is a globally renowned temple and is also included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. It is located in the town of Konark in Puri district, Odisha. Many stories and legends associated with this temple enhance its significance. Dedicated to the Sun God, this grand temple showcases the incredible medieval architecture through its intricate stone carvings.
This temple is designed to resemble a chariot with stone wheels, making it appear as if it is a chariot itself. It is believed that this temple was established by Samba, the son of Lord Krishna, and later constructed in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva of the Ganga dynasty. A unique feature of this temple is that the first rays of sunrise strike its main entrance.
Sun Temple, Pratapgarh
This temple is located at the border of Allahabad-Pratapgarh district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh and is dedicated to the Sun God. Its architecture and wall carvings are both beautiful and captivating, featuring images of gods, creepers, and leaves. The temple also houses a Shiva Lingam and a statue of Buddha, with a striking black stone statue of the Sun God situated north of the Shiva Lingam. The temple is considered a precious artwork, preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Deo Sun Temple
The Deo Sun Temple is considered one of the three main Sun Temples in India and is located in the town of Deo in Aurangabad district, Bihar. This famous temple attracts large crowds during the Chhath festival, celebrated in Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Also known as the Deovark Temple, its architecture and craftsmanship are remarkable, with intricately carved stones that exemplify exquisite carving. This temple combines the Nagara, Dravidian, and Vesara architectural styles.
Ancient beliefs suggest that the temple was built in a single night by the celestial architect Vishwakarma. A distinctive feature is the lotus-shaped spire with a golden urn on top of the sanctum. Unlike most Hindu temples, it faces west. Legend has it that the temple’s entrance shifted from east to west in one night.
Modhera Sun Temple
The Modhera Sun Temple is one of the major Sun Temples in India, dedicated to the Sun God and situated on the banks of the Pushpavati River in the village of Modhera, Mehsana district, Gujarat. The temple comprises three main parts: the main temple, an assembly hall, and a stepped tank. Stairs lead to the tank, with smaller shrines around it. A unique aspect of this temple is its 52 pillars, representing the 52 weeks of the year, adorned with fine carvings. The temple was built in the ancient Solanki architectural style.
Suryanarayana Temple
This famous Sun Temple of Lord Surya is located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. A statue of the Sun God is carved on a granite stone here. The temple’s unique architecture allows sunlight to touch the feet of the idol twice a year, in March when the Sun moves from Uttarayana to Dakshinayana, and again in October when it transitions back. According to legend, this temple was built by King Devendra Varma of the Kalinga dynasty in the 7th century.
