The Sun Temple is a beautiful and historic temple in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Sun God, Surya Dev. The temple is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city and attracts visitors from all over the country.
The temple was built in the 9th century AD by the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty. The temple's architecture blends different styles, including Nagara, Dravidian, and Indo-Aryan. The temple complex is spread over a vast area, and the main temple is built on a high platform.
The temple's architecture is awe-inspiring, with intricate carvings and designs adorning the walls and pillars of the temple. The temple has a pyramidal shape and is built with sandstone. The temple's main entrance is decorated with beautiful carvings of elephants and horses, and many other carvings and sculptures are on the temple's walls.
The temple's inner sanctum houses the idol of the Sun God, made of black stone. The model is about 6 feet tall and is seated on a chariot with seven horses. The temple's design is such that during the equinoxes, the first rays of the sun fall on the idol, illuminating it in a golden hue.
The temple is also known for its exquisite wall paintings and frescoes, excellent examples of the Bundeli School of Art. These paintings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the life of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna.
The Sun Temple is not just a religious site but also an important archaeological site. Many artefacts and relics from the ancient period have been discovered here, including stone inscriptions and statues.
The temple is open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, art, and architecture.
The Sun Temple, including the Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace, and Tigra Dam. Visitors can also indulge in local food and shopping in the bustling bazaars around the temple.
One of India's holiest cities, Ujjain, is approximately 40 kilometres from the Sun Temple. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of India's twelve Jyotirlingas.
Located approximately 60 kilometres from the Sun Temple, Omkareshwar is a holy town on the banks of the Narmada River. It is known for its Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple and several other ancient temples.
Located approximately 90 kilometres from the Sun Temple, Mandu is an ancient fortress town known for its rich history and architecture. It is home to several monuments and temples, including the Jahaz Mahal and Hindola Mahal.
Located approximately 110 kilometres from the Sun Temple, Maheshwar is a holy town on the banks of the Narmada River. It is known for its Maheshwar Fort and several ancient temples, including the Maheshwar and Ahilya Bai Temples.
Located approximately 250 kilometres from the Sun Temple, Pachmarhi is a popular hill station known for its natural beauty and scenic landscapes. It is home to several waterfalls, lakes, and caves, including the Jata Shankar and Bee Falls.