This ancient ruined architecture is most remarkable remains of the monuments existing across India. Built during AD 724 – 61, by Lalitaditya Muktapida, Martand Sun Temple aka Martand Surya Mandir is one of the very oldest Hindu shrines, now known for its unique dimensions and architectural grandeur.

It must be a surprising fact for every visitor that Martand Sun Temple is built with a mix of architectures of Gandharan, Chinese, Roman and even Greek Styles. The location of the temple is so phenomenal that there must have been around 84 temples around temple’s periphery and the central shrine must have been positioned high so as to have an aerial view of entire Kashmir. The top of the temple is in pyramidal shape which is quite commonly called as Shikara in Kashmiri region, but is an unusual structure in Hindu temples. Large square blocks made of limestone were used as the foundation for this temple. The excavations show huge stone sculptures engraved with gods and goddesses in Hinduism. The temple is under the care and maintenance of ASI, a Central Government Organization preserving the monuments across the country.

Visitors’ Info :

• The entire temple structure is in shambles
• You may be standing on a stone pillar with engravings of statues, have a look at
• Try to figure out the inscriptions on pillars and walls
• Don’t miss to watch heavy carvings and decorations near the temple entrance
• Having said that the location is not much popular, you may find people rarely except for Kashmiri youths spending away their time
• The temple is in middle of nowhere and away from crowded parts of Srinagar