Martand Sun Temple

The Martand Sun Temple, a historic Hindu site in the Kashmir Valley, India, dates back to the 8th century CE. Dedicated to Surya, the solar deity in Hinduism, it was built under the reign of Lalitaditya Muktapida. This magnificent temple showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.

The Martand Temple, situated on a plateau offering a panoramic view of the Kashmir Valley, is a remarkable example of Kashmiri architecture that harmoniously combines Gandharan, Gupta, and Chinese styles.

Its significant features include a colonnaded courtyard, a central primary shrine surrounded by 84 smaller ones, and the incorporation of a pre-existing smaller temple. This architectural marvel showcases the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of its time.

This temple, being the largest peristyle in Kashmir, showcases intricate design and proportionality in its various chambers. Its adherence to Hindu temple architecture, featuring a grand entrance on the western side, enhances its overall beauty and significance.

The entrance of the temple showcases its grandeur with intricate decorations and references to the revered deities within. The central temple structure holds the primary shrine and typically features a pyramidal top, a characteristic often seen in Kashmiri temples. Inside, the antechamber boasts captivating carvings of various gods like Vishnu, river goddesses such as Ganga and Yamuna, and the sun-god Surya.