Surya Temple

Surya (Sun) Temple – A Rare Sun Shrine in the Desert Town of Osian, Rajasthan

Set against the golden backdrop of the Thar Desert, the Surya Temple in Osian, Rajasthan, is a beautiful temple dedicated to the Sun God — a deity rarely worshipped through dedicated temples in India. This ancient wonder, believed to be from the 8th–9th century AD, is one of the oldest surviving sun temples in the country and a fine example of early Nagara-style temple architecture.

Located in the famous Osian temple complex, the Surya Temple is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored by history buffs, architecture enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.

History

The Surya Temple was built during the rule of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, which was a major contributor to temple construction in western India. Osian was once a thriving religious and trade centre known as "Upkeshpur" and had temples of all major Indian faiths — Hinduism, Jainism and Vaishnavism.

While most temples in the region are dedicated to deities like Shiva or Vishnu, the Surya Temple stands out for its unique dedication to Surya Dev, the solar deity known for vitality, enlightenment and cosmic energy. This rare dedication shows Osian's spiritual diversity and historical openness to all forms of worship.

Architectural Features

• The sanctum (garbhagriha) has a beautiful idol of Surya Dev standing with lotus flowers in both hands and his chariot of seven horses (symbolising the seven days of the week).
• The shikhara (spire) and mandapa (hall) have carvings of celestial beings, sun motifs and other deities from Hindu mythology.
• The temple is made of finely carved sandstone with rich decorative panels, floral designs and miniature sculptures.
• Although weathered, the temple still has majesty and grace and gives a glimpse into early Indian solar worship.

Timings

• Opening Time: 6:00 AM
• Closing Time: 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free* Photography: Allowed (with care and respect for the site)
• Dress Code: Traditional or modest dress

What to See

• Surya Dev Idol – Rare and beautiful form of the Sun God
• Chariot and Horse Carvings – Symbol of solar power and movement
• Shikhara and Pillars – Rich with mythological motifs
• Temple Courtyard – A peaceful spot for meditation and spiritual connection

Nearby Attractions

The Surya Temple is part of the Osian temple circuit, often visited with:

• Sachiya Mata Temple – A major Hindu pilgrimage site
• Jain Mahavira Temple – Beautifully carved Jain temple
• Harihara Temples – Shiva and Vishnu temples
• Camel Safari in Osian Dunes – For some adventure with spirituality

How to Reach

• By Road: 70 km from Jodhpur, easily accessible by taxi or bus. Osian town is well-connected by roads.
• By Rail: Osian Railway Station is 2–3 km away from the temple.
• By Air: Jodhpur Airport (65 km) with regular flights from major Indian cities.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Surya Temple is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. The early morning hours are particularly recommended, as the rising sun adds a divine glow to the temple, enhancing its spiritual atmosphere.

Taxi Services to Surya (Sun) Temple, Osian

Plan your divine journey to the Surya Temple (Sun Temple) in Osian with Car Tours Jodhpur, your trusted taxi service in Rajasthan. Dedicated to the Sun God, this ancient temple is a marvel of Rajasthani architecture, known for its intricate carvings and historical significance. Our reliable taxi and cab services make your trip from Jodhpur to Osian smooth, safe, and filled with comfort — whether you’re visiting for spirituality, history, or photography.

Our Taxi and Cab Services include:

• One-way Taxi (Jodhpur to Osian) – Budget-friendly option for travellers seeking a single journey to the Sun Temple.
• Round-trip Taxi Service – Ideal for visitors planning a same-day return after exploring Osian temples.
• Outstation Cabs – Comfortable and air-conditioned cabs to nearby places like Khichan, Nagaur, and Bikaner.
• Custom Tour Packages – Combine your visit to the Surya Temple with other attractions like Sachiya Mata Temple, Mahaveer Jain Temple, and Osian Desert Safari for a complete experience.