Photo: Musafir kanya, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Built around 11-12th century, the temple complex was commissioned by Chaulukya king Bhima I. The beautifully carved sandstone temple complex has three parts; a reservoir Surya Kund, the assembly hall Sabha Mandapa and the shrine proper Gudha Mandapa. It is located on the bank of Pushpavati river. There is a small museum as well. Public Toilets are behind the museum.
The Sun Temple of Modhera is a Hindu temple dedicated to the solar deity Surya, located in the village of Modhera in Mehsana district, Gujarat, India. The temple is situated on the bank of the river Pushpavati, and was constructed in the 11th century during the reign of Bhima I and Karna I of the Chaulukya dynasty. The temple is no longer used for worship and is a protected monument maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple complex has three components: Gūḍhamanḍapa, the shrine hall; Sabhamanḍapa, the assembly hall and Kunḍa, the reservoir. The halls are noted for the intricately carved exteriors and decorated pillars. The tiered steps of the reservoir lead to the bottom and numerous small shrines.
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The three-day Modhera Dance Festival is held every year during the third weekend of January after the conclusion of Uttarayan festival. The dance festival is frequently visited by art and dance connoisseurs from around the world. Classical and folk dancers and musicians from different states of India exhibit their talent and flair while culture enthusiasts become part of the festival to witness this splendid event.
A lakeside pavilion on high plinth probably made from parts of earlier structure belonging to Solanki period. It is erected in six pilaster and 12 columns of sandstone with some decorations on pillar capitals and on plinths. A jali windows are there in rear wall.
11th century stepwell with moderate carvings. Unusual mandapa shrine in the middle pavilion tower. Usually premises is locked.
See how canal crosses a river by going under it! Understand the engineering and mechanics of the system.
Modheshwari is a clan deity of several families belonging to the village. A very large and beautiful temple.
A large embankment forms this wetland where migratory and local birds flock in winter. A good seasonal birdwatching spot.