Martand Sun Temple

3.6 / 5 Hills Valleys, Rivers Lakes,

About Martand Sun Temple

Far From City: 7 kms from city center
Cost: About Martand Sun Temple Weather: Time Required:1-2 hrs Open Time:6:00 AM - 7:00 PM Cost:No entry fee

History of Martand Sun Temple The Martand Sun Temple was built by King Lalitaditya Muktapida around 8th Century CE. Lalitaditya Muktapida was the third ruler of the Karkota Dynasty. It is believed that the foundation of the temple complex was laid in between 350 and 500 CE and some parts of the structure were also constructed during the reign of Ranaditya, who was the son of Narindraditya of the Gonanda Dynasty III of Kashmir. Gonanda Dynasty III was the last dynasty of the rulers of the Gonanda line. After the end of their Dynasty, the Karkota Dynasty took over, and the remaining construction of the temple was completed by King Lalitaditya Muktapida in honour of the Sun God, Surya. In most parts of Kashmir, Martand is also known as Mattan. In some texts, it is stated that the King named the temple Martand as a tribute to the fishermen as fishing and trading were the prominent professions of fishing during his reign. In the 15th century, however, the temple complex was completely demolished on the orders of Sikandar Butshikan, a muslim ruler in Kashmir. It is said that it took over a year to demolish the grand and sturdy temple complex during that time. Architecture of Martand Sun Temple The architecture of the Martand Sun temple is a perfect example of the creative geniuses born in India over centuries. The complex is considered an exceptional specimen of Hindu - Kashmiri architecture that includes influences of the Gupta, Gandharan, Syrian, Chinese, Roman and Greek architectural forms fused brilliantly all over the temple complex. The mesmerizing complex expands over an area of 32,000 square feet and has its entrance in the western side of the complex. The grand entrance is adorned by elaborate as well as intricate carvings of Hindu Deities. The ruined collonaded courtyard of the temple leads to the main shrine of Lord Surya which is located in the centre of the complex. The centre of the complex has a tank like structure with descending stairs. The main shrine has a smaller antechamber that is decorated with beautifully intricate carvings of Lord Vishnu, Ganga and Yamuna - the river goddesses, and the ultimate Sun God, Surya. Archaeologists have tried to restore an impression of the structure that the main shrine must have had centuries ago before it was destroyed. It is believed that the main shrine had a pyramid-shaped pinnacle which is commonly seen on the temples in Kashmir. There are about 83 smaller shrines that surround the main shrine of Lord Surya and are lined up along the perimeter of the complex that was again connected by the gorgeous greek influenced limestone colonnades. The ruins on the site now show weathered Sanskrit inscriptions, eroded sculptures and carvings depicting the traditional dance postures, musical events and some more deities.

How to Reach Martand Sun Temple One can hire a cab Srinagar to reach the mesmerizing ruins of Martand Sun Temple. It would take roughly one hour of travel time. The temple complex is easily reachable as it is located at Kehribal, about 9 kilometres from Anantnag. One may choose to take an hour-long taxi or a cab ride from Pahalgam to reach the enticing ruins in Kashmir.

Top Tourist Places in Anantnag Amarnath Ji's cave Kishtwar national park Aishmuqam Shrine Jhelum River Kherbawani Asthapan Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki All Tourist Places in Anantnag

Tips 1. There are no tourist guides present at the site.2. Although there are some small local eateries outside the temple complex, one may choose to carry their own snacks and water.3. Do not litter the area.4. Watch your step as you explore the site.5. It might get extremely cold; carry jackets and sweaters as per the season you choose to visit.