Martand Sun Temple is a famous Hindu temple close to Anantnag, in the Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The temple’s history dates back to the eighth century and is primarily dedicated to the god Sun. The name ‘Martand’ is because the Sun (Surya) is called Martand in Sanskrit. Note that the temple was destroyed by Sikandar Shah Miri and rebuilt later.
About Martand Sun Temple
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This temple, with roots in ancient Hindu mythology, is dedicated to the lord Sun, a prominent deity in the Hindu religion. Lalitaditya Muktapida built it; he was the third ruler of the ancient Karkota Dynasty. The temple was constructed in the 8th century CE. This temple boasts a beautiful example of Kashmir-based architecture. It also blends Gupta, Gandharan, and Chinese styles. Since it is constructed on a plateau, it presents a striking view of the beautiful Kashmir valley.
Address: Martand Sun Temple, Surya Mandir Rd, Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 192125
Distance from city centre: Approximately 5 km from the city centre of Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir
Timings: 08:00 – 17:00 (daily)
Entry Fee: No entry fee
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Historical Significance Of Martand Sun Temple
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As per the Kalhana, this temple was custom-built by Lalitaditya Muktapida during the eighth century CE. Jonaraja and Hasan Ali cited that Sikandar Shah Miri ruined the temple to make the society Islamic. The same was accomplished under the recommendation of a Sufi preacher named Mir Muhammad Hamadani. Moreover, Jonaraja levied the guilt on his chief counsel, Suhabhatta, who was held to have revealed a reign of intense persecution for the local Hindus. But Ali affirmed Sikandar’s convictions in these facets.
The temple represents a historic architectural marvel. It was built on the pinnacle of a plateau, from which you can easily see the entire Kashmir Valley. The temple is a beautiful example of Kashmiri culture because its archaeological findings depict this culture. The temple boasts a collonaded courtyard. Its key shrine is in the middle and enclosed by 84 tiny shrines. Moreover, the temple is the state’s biggest specimen of a peristyle.
Nearby Attractions To Martand Sun Temple
Huge snowy mountains beautifully enclose the Martand Sun Temple. Here are some of the topmost nearby attractions around this temple:
1. Shalimar Bagh
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The Mughal garden is connected via a channel to the northeast part of Dal Lake. Located in Srinagar, this garden was created on flat land on a square plan. It has four glowing arms, and the centre has a water source. The garden needs to be modified to accommodate the hilly terrain for tourists. Mughal Emperor Jahangir built this garden in 1619.
Location: Foer Shore Road, Srinagar 190025, India.
Timings: 09:00 – 19:00 (daily) (from April to October); 10:00 – 17:00 (daily) (from November to March)
Entry Fee: INR 24 per individual
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2. Sheshnag Lake
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This oligotrophic lake has a high elevation and is situated in Anantnag district, Jammu Kashmir. Located amidst Kashmir Valley, this lake boasts a beautiful elevated view. It is located on the track leading to the Amarnath cave. Moreover, it is enclosed by green meadows and snow-covered mountains. This lake is one of the renowned tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley. It has snow melting and streams approaching from the mountains throughout the day. The name Sheshnag means the King of all Nagas of the Hindu religion.
Location: Chandanwari Road, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 192126, India.
Timings: 09:00 – 17:30 (daily)
Entry Fee: No entry fee
3. Mamaleshwar Temple
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Situated in Pahalgam town, this temple holds excellent mythological importance. It is located on the banks of the Lidder River. In this temple, lord Ganesha sat as a doorkeeper by goddess Parvati to deter anyone from entering without permission. It is also where lord Shiva cut the head of lord Ganesha and finally gave him an elephant hand. The surroundings show a rippling pool at the front of the temple’s stone tower. Hence, it has become a famous Architectural Marvel of Martand Sun Temple.
Location: Near Swarg Palace, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir (State) 192123
Timings: 06:00 – 20:00
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Related Post: Shankaracharya Temple
4. Chandanwari
Chandanwari is renowned for serving as a beginning point for the famous Amarnath Yatra. It is located at nearly 16 km from Pahalgam. If you are searching for a peaceful place to enjoy the lap of nature, then you can consider visiting Chandanwari. The Lidder River flows nearby and is famous for various sightseeing opportunities. You can find snow-covered mountains nearby. Generally, the region is snow-covered from November to May. You can relish the impressive sight of glaciers seamlessly melting in the Lidder River.
Location: Chandanwari, Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry Fee: INR 0
5. Aru Valley
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In addition to being a valley, it is a famous tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. Primarily, Aru is a village in the Anantnag District. It is located 53 km from Anantnag city and 12 km away from Pahalgam. The valley is renowned for its picturesque meadows, mountains, and lakes. It is also ideal for basic trekking. This valley has many peaks, meadows, and alpine lakes. Some everyday tourist activities include skiing and heliskiing. Other tourist activities include horse riding, fishing, hiking, trekking, photography, etc.
Location: Aru Valley, Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Timings: 09:00 – 14:00 (daily)
Entry Fee: INR 25 per individual
Related Post: Resorts In Srinagar
How To Reach Martand Sun Temple
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You can hire a car, taxi, or bus to reach this temple. You can get all these transportation options from Srinagar in Anantnag. The distance between the temple and Srinagar is 64 km.
You can expect to travel around 2 hours to reach this temple. If you are confused about reaching Martand Sun Temple, you can hire any transportation options. Also, you can take a train for a route on Anantnag and later hire a local transport to reach this temple.
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Touring Martand Sun Temple is always a mesmerising experience for any tourist. In addition to being a spiritual journey, it incorporates deep roots in the cultural heritage. The temple showcases historic architecture that attracts tourists from around the world. Besides, the nearby attractions attract many tourists every year. Notwithstanding the temple’s ruined state, it attracts many devotees and holds great historical significance. You can book your trip to Kashmir to rejuvenate all the top attractions.
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Cover Image Credit: Varun Shiv Kapur for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Martand Sun Temple
What are the common festivals celebrated at Martand Sun Temple?
A typical festival celebrated at this temple is Makar Sankranti. This festival represents the transition of the Sun into the Capricorn zodiac sign. Another great festival celebrated here is Saptami. It depicts the Sun’s chariot transitioning northward. It is rejoiced with prayers and rituals offered to the Sun god.
Is photography allowed at the Martand Sun Temple?
Generally, photography is permitted at the Martand Sun Temple. However, there may be some nominal fee charged for capturing videos or photos.
What accommodation facilities are available near Martand Sun Temple for tourists?
Various accommodation facilities are available around the Martand Sun Temple. You can find a wide range of lodges and hotels in Anantnag.
When did Martand Sun Temple begin to be restored?
During March 2024, the restoration of this temple began by Jammu and Kashmir’s government.
What attraction spots are located beneath the Martand Sun Temple?
At the bottom of this temple, you would find the orchard, green fields, and streams.
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