Katarmal Sun Temple, Almora, Uttarakhand.

The Katarmal Sun Temple is a historically significant 12th century monument and an example of meticulous sculpturing. The sun’s first rays land directly on this Sun Temple.

It is believed that the Katarmal Sun temple was built in 9th century by Katarmalla, a Katyuri Raja. ( In the early medieval period, Kumaon was ruled by the Katyuri dynasty. )

About Sun Temple Katarmal

The main deity of the katarmal sun temple almora is called Burhadita or Vraddhaditya. This is another name of Sun god.

This temple also houses the idols of Shiva-Parvati and Lakshmi-Narayana.

The Surya idol at the Katarmal Sun Temple goes back to the 12th century and is known for its exquisite architecture, finely constructed stone and metallic sculptures, and elegantly carved pillars and wooden doors.

The Katarmal Sun temple is now a protected monument and is preserved and maintained by the Archeological Survey of India.

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If you do not know, the intricately carved doors and panels have been removed and shifted to the National Museum in Delhi. This was done after the 10th-century idol of the presiding deity was stolen.

Legend of sun temple katarmal almora uttarakhand

As per legend, when Pandavas were in exile they lived here briefly.

One of the conditions of their exile was “They must maintain their anonymity for fourteen years of their exile“. And if they breach this condition, they will not get their kingdom back.

It is believed that in the Mahabharata, Pandavas once started building a magnificent Sun Temple in a single day as their hideout.

But due to some reason they had to leave the temple construction in between and leave the place.

Hence the temple was not completly built.

Katarmal temple of Almora, whose part of the roof is half done is said to be that temple. And today as well, the partially complete roof of the temple is clearly visible.

How to reach Katarmal

The temple is situated at around 7Km from Almora , in the state of Uttrakhand.

If you are travelling from Nanital, the temple will be around 70 KMS.

The temple is at in altitude of around 2115 meters above sea level.

Katarmal Sun Temple is the Second important Sun Temple in the country, the first Sun temple being the Konark Sun Temple in Odisha.

For other places of interest in Almora – click here

You can visit Nanital tourism websiet for more places in Nanital.

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