By Admin 
India is a country where faith and architecture are deeply interconnected. There are thousands of temples here, some of which are especially dedicated to the Sun God. In Hindu religion, Sun God is considered the source of life, a symbol of light and energy. Therefore, worship of Sun has been an important tradition since ancient times. There are many such grand Sun temples in India, which have great importance not only from religious but also from historical and cultural point of view.
These temples are not just places of worship, but a wonderful confluence of art, science, astrology and architecture of that time can be seen. Some of these temples are still standing in their original condition while some are in ruins, but their importance and attraction is still the same. In such a situation, let us tell you today about the major Sun temples of India and know what are the secrets and history hidden in these Sun temples.
1. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha — Konark Sun Temple located in Puri district of Odisha is famous not only in India but all over the world. This temple was built by King Narasimha Dev in the 13th century. This temple is built like the chariot of Sun God, which has 12 huge wheels and 7 horses. The walls and pillars of the temple are carved so intricately that life is visible in every sculpture.
This temple is a wonderful example of architecture and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple was designed in such a way that the first rays of the sun reached the sanctum sanctorum directly. Although the sanctum sanctorum has now been destroyed, its grandeur still attracts people.
2. Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat — Modhera Sun Temple, located in Patan district of Gujarat, was built by King Bhimdev I in the 11th century. This temple is a great example of architecture and science. The most special thing is that twice a year the first ray of the sun falls directly on the idol of the main deity of the temple. The temple complex has three main parts. Which includes the sanctum sanctorum, assembly hall, and Surya Kund. There are 108 small temples built around this pond. Beautiful carvings of gods, goddesses, sages and different aspects of life can be seen on the walls of the temple.
3. Martand Sun Temple, Jammu and Kashmir — Martand Sun Temple, located in Anantnag district amidst the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, was built by King Lalitaditya in the 8th century. This temple is a magnificent example of the ancient architecture of Kashmir. It is built at a height from where the surrounding view is extremely beautiful. The temple is now in ruins, but its huge pillars, grand arches and strong walls still tell the story of its glorious past. Along with Sun worship, this temple also reflects the cultural richness of Kashmir of that time. Many Bollywood films have also been shot here.
4. Katarmal Sun Temple, Uttarakhand — Katarmal Sun Temple, located in Almora district of Uttarakhand, was built by King Katarmal of Katyuri dynasty in the 9th century. This temple is situated at an altitude of about 2,116 meters above sea level and reaching here is an adventurous experience. Apart from Sun God, there are also 44 more small temples in the temple complex. The specialty of the temple is its fine stone carvings and peaceful atmosphere. Mountains, greenery and open sky all around make it a very spiritual experience. The view here at sunrise and sunset is very beautiful.
5. Sun Temple, Gwalior — Sun Temple located in Gwalior city is also a major Sun Temple which is known for its architectural style and grandeur. This temple is relatively new and was built in 1988 by Gopaldas Neeraj, an industrialist from Gwalior. The design of this temple is inspired by the Konark temple of Odisha. Beautiful sculptures of gods and goddesses are carved on the walls of the temple and its structure is of traditional North Indian Nagar style. This place provides spirituality as well as peace. Despite being located in the middle of the city, it is a very peaceful and reverent place.
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