Sun Temple, Umri, Madhya Pradesh

Sun Temple, Umri, Madhya Pradesh

Sun Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Surya (Sun God) located in Umri Village in Tikamgarh District in Madhya Pradesh State of India. The Temple was constructed by Pratihara rulers in 9^th Century CE. The temple has been classified as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The Temple

This Temple is facing towards east. The temple is Pancharatha in plan. The Sanctum Sanctorum consists of Sanctum, Antrala and Mukha Mandapa. The lintel above the entrance of the sanctum has an image of Surya flanked by Sapta Matrikas accompanied by Vinayaga & Veerabhadra and Ashta Grahas. The base of the doorjamb has Ganga and Yamuna. The Sanctum houses remains of a Surya Idol of which only pedestal has survived.

The Shikara over the sanctum follows Nagara style architecture. Ashta Dikpalas can be seen over the karna niches. All are depicted in seated posture except Ishana who is shown in standing posture. The niches around the sanctum walls are empty except the western niche. The western niche houses an image of Surya, riding a chariot driven by seven horses with Aruna as his charioteer. Varaha, Krishna and Narasimha can be seen on the niches of Adhistana.

Connectivity

The Temple is located at about 7 Kms from Kakarwaha, 11 Kms from Badagaon, 33 Kms from Tikamgarh, 76 Kms from Lalitpur Junction Railway Station, 76 Kms from Lalitpur Airport, 107 Kms from Sagar, 133 Kms from Jhansi Railway Station and 268 Kms from Bhopal. The temple is situated on Tikamgarh to Sagar route.

Location