Modhera
Modhera is in North Gujarat, India. The village is home to a millennia-old Sun Temple.
Understand
[edit]Modhera is an ancient town. The ancient monuments in the village are the major attractions of the village. It is the first "solar village" of India which meets its complete electricity requirement by solar plant and battery storage.
Get in
[edit]
Map of Modhera
From Mehsana, catch a state transport bus or shared jeep to reach Modhera (45 min). Private vehicle would be convenient choice. 25 km from Mehsana, 35 km from Patan.
- 1 GSRTC Bus Station.
Nearest railway stations are in Patan and Mehsana.
Get around
[edit]Autorickshaws are other main local mode of transport but your on private vehicle would be better choice to reach the spot.
See
[edit]- 1 Sun Temple (2 km west of village). 8AM-6PM. Built around 11-12th century, the temple complex was commissioned by Chaulukya king Bhima I. The beautifully carved sandstone temple complex has three parts; a reservoir Surya Kund, the assembly hall Sabha Mandapa and the shrine proper Gudha Mandapa. It is located on the bank of Pushpavati river. There is a small museum as well. ₹25 for Indians, $5 for Foreigners, ₹20 for parking.
- 2 Gyaneshwari Stepwell (On way to Sun Temple). Belongs to 16-17th century, it has a shrine at the first pavilion of the stepwell instead of usual at the end. Usually premises is locked. Free.
- 3 Modheshwari Mata Temple. 5:30AM-7PM. Modheshwari is a clan deity of several families belonging to the village. A large and beautiful temple.
- 4 Narmada Canal Syphon on Pushapavati river. See how canal crosses a river by going under it! Understand the engineering and mechanics of the system.
- 5 Hawa Mahal. A lakeside pavilion on high plinth probably made from parts of earlier structure belonging to Solanki period. It is erected in six pilaster and 12 columns of sandstone with some decorations on pillar capitals and on plinths. A jali windows are there in rear wall.
Do
[edit]- 1 The Modhera Dance Festival. The three-day Modhera Dance Festival is held every year during the third weekend of January after the conclusion of Uttarayan festival. The dance festival is frequently visited by art and dance connoisseurs from around the world. Classical and folk dancers and musicians from different states of the India exhibit their talent and flair while culture enthusiasts become part of the festival to witness this splendid event.
Buy
[edit]Eat
[edit]- 1 Toran Restaurant (Near gate of Sun Temple). Serves snacks, drinks and dishes. Operated by the government contractor.
- 2 Eulogia Restro Cafe, ☏ +91 9875269814, eulogiarestro@gmail.com. 7AM-9PM. Bevarages, fastfoods, snacks and meals.
Drink
[edit]- 1 Modheshwari Mata Temple canteen. Serves tea, coffee and drinks along with light snacks.