Archive · 22 Sep 2026
Modhera Sun Temple Celebrates a Millennium of Architectural Heritage
The Modhera Sun Temple is a very old temple in Gujarat.
It was built about 1,000 years ago, between 1026 and 1027 AD.
The temple was dedicated to the Sun God.
It has a large water tank, a pillared hall, and an inner shrine.
Visitors admire its detailed carvings and unusual design.
The temple faces east so sunlight can shine toward the shrine during the equinoxes.
Some of its pillars are traditionally connected with the hours of the day and weeks of the year.
The Archaeological Survey of India protects and conserves the monument.
Festivals and visitors continue to keep the site important today.
The Modhera Sun Temple was built in 1026–27 AD during the reign of Solanki king Bhimdeva-I.
Its three main sections are the Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap, and sanctum sanctorum, arranged east to west.
The complex features 108 shrines around the Surya Kund, 52 carved Sabha Mandap pillars, and 24 sanctum pillars.
Its design is linked to the Sun, including an east-facing alignment that allows equinox sunlight toward the shrine.
UNESCO added the temple and adjoining monuments to India’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in December 2022.
- Who
- The temple was built during the reign of Solanki dynasty king Bhimdeva-I and is now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
- What
- The Modhera Sun Temple is a 1,000-year-old monument known for its Maru-Gurjara architecture, carvings, solar alignment, and cultural significance.
- When
- It was constructed in 1026–27 AD; UNESCO added it to India’s Tentative List on December 13, 2022.
- Where
- The temple is located at Modhera in Gujarat’s Mehsana district.
- Why
- Its architectural design, sculptures, connection with solar movements, and continuing cultural and tourist importance have made it a significant heritage monument.
- Construction period
- 1026–27 AD
- Builder’s era
- Reign of Solanki dynasty king Bhimdeva-I
- Architectural style
- Maru-Gurjara
- Principal sections
- Surya Kund, Sabha Mandap, and sanctum sanctorum
- Surya Kund shrines
- 108 small and large shrines surround the sacred tank
- Pillars
- The Sabha Mandap has 52 pillars; the sanctum has 24 pillars
- Heritage status
- Added to India’s UNESCO Tentative List of World Heritage Sites on December 13, 2022