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Martand Temple is a Kashmiri Hindu temple with one of the most elegant and spectacular structures ever built in India. It is designed such that the sunshine always shines on the idol of the sun. The temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, Martand in the Sanskrit language. Even in a wrecked state, the temple’s architecture looks breathtaking and gives nostalgic vibes. This temple’s fused designs and wall carvings still stand the test of time and weather. This magnificent structure is made up of limestone and built on a plateau.
Location
Photo: Deepank Ranka / Wikimedia Commons
The Martand Temple is close to Anantnag, in Jammu and Kashmir. The temple is located in the Kashmir valley of the state. It is at a distance of 59 km from Srinagar, the capital city. Built by Lalitaditya Muktapida, the third ruler of the Karkota dynasty, this temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Suggested Read: Kashmir Temples
How To Reach Martand Sun Temple
Photo: Divya Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
To reach this ancient temple, you can hire a cab from Srinagar, which will take around 1 hour of travel time. Tourists visiting from Anantnag will take less time as it is only 9 km away. It is very convenient to reach this temple due to its proximity to the capital city, Srinagar. The nearest airport to the temple is Sheikh Ul Alam airport, from there one can hire a taxi easily. The nearest railway station is Anantnag railway station from where tourists can take local transports and taxis.
Places To Visit Near Martand Sun Temple
1. Betaab Valley
Photo: Sauood07 / Wikimedia Commons
This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pahalgam, which is at a very picturesque location encircled by pine forests and deodar trees. The Lidder River flows right through this valley. It is one of the three angelic valleys of Pahalgam that has vast pastures, snow-peaked mountains, and meandering streams flowing through it. It is also a base for devotees who want to set out for the Amarnath Yatra. The valley gets its name from the famous Bollywood movie Betaab, which was shot here.
Location: 15 km from Pahalgam
Major Attractions: Trekking, Horse Riding, Amarnath Yatra, Amusement Park, Baisaran and Tulian Lake
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
Suggested Read: Srinagar Temples
2. Aru Valley
Photo: KennyOMG / Wikimedia Commons
Aru Valley is a quiet hill station amidst the lush, green grasslands, with a breathtaking view of the majestic Himalayan ranges. Its misty valleys, snow-peaked mountains, and pristine meadows make it a perfect place to visit. This valley also serves as a starting point for the famous Sonamarg Trek and Kolahoi Glacier trek. It also has some enchanting waterfalls and milky-white streams flowing out of the mountains.
Location: 12 km from Pahalgam
Major Attractions: Trekking, horse riding, heli-skiing, skiing, camping, paragliding and bird watching
Entry Fee: ₹25 per person for Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
Where To Stay
Photo: N509FZ / Wikimedia Commons/Image For Representation Only
This temple is near Anantnag, and tourists will get good and comfortable hotels here. Some of the best accommodation options are Pines Guest House, Sheesham Resort, Eden Resorts and Spa, Walnut Tree Hotel, White Water Resorts, and more. These places offer great hospitality and services for the tourists.
Suggested Read: Jammu Temples
Where To Eat
Photo: SubtlePen / Wikimedia Commons
Tourists will find decent eating joints and restaurants in Anantnag. Some of the best options to eat here are, The Lounge, Sheereen Restaurant, Parsa’s Anantnag, Amigos, Bunk ‘N’ Hide, and many more. They offer delicious cuisines and a vast menu for tourists to choose from.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Varun Shiv Kapur / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit this temple is between April and November, as the weather is most favourable at that time. The temperature ranges from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius and is ideal for exploring the outdoor ruins of this magnificent temple.
Suggested Read: Famous Festivals In Jammu And Kashmir
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Varun Shiv Kapur / Wikimedia Commons
While planning a trip to the Martand Temple, it is essential to bear in mind the following points. It will ease your planning:
Average Cost Of The Trip: There is no entry fee for the visitors to enter this temple. The only cost you will incur will be transportation. It turns out to be very economical.
Martand Temple, Jammu and Kashmir, dedicated to Lord Surya, was built in the 8th century AD. This site is recognised as a site of national significance. The temple is aesthetically located and offers a panoramic view of the entire Kashmir Valley. Over time, the temple complex is now in ruins due to the passage of time and historical invasions. To witness this mesmerising temple, plan a trip with TripXL.
Photo: Aadil939 / Wikimedia Commons
