Deo Surya Mandir

The West-Facing Sun Shrine of Deo, Aurangabad

Overview

Deo Surya Mandir is one of India’s rare Sun temples, perched in Deo town of Aurangabad district, Bihar. Unlike most solar shrines which face east, this temple uniquely faces west toward the setting sun. It’s a focal point for Chhath Puja celebrations, drawing lakhs of devotees each year. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Learn more about the region on our Aurangabad Overview page or explore other Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

5th–6th Century CE: According to the ASI, original shrine dates to this period, marking early Sun worship in Magadha. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
8th Century CE: Major reconstruction under regional dynasties, blending Nagara, Dravidian & Vesara styles. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
15th Century CE: Renovated by King Bhairvendra Singh of Umga, adding the 100-ft shikhara and mandapa. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
20th Century: Restored by ASI to preserve intricate carvings and Surya kund.

Architectural Features

The temple’s sanctum (garbhagriha) houses a four-armed Surya idol facing west. The multi-tiered shikhara is crowned by an umbrella-like finial. Walls and pillars bear carved motifs of lotus, wheels (chakra), and scenes from Vedic sun hymns.

West-facing sanctum aligned with setting sun rays
100-ft shikhara topped by golden urn
Stone pillars with lotus and chakra carvings
Vesara-style mandapa with intricately carved ceilings

Spiritual Importance

Deo Surya Mandir is the epicenter of Bihar’s Chhath Puja, where devotees offer arghya to the setting sun at the temple’s Surya kund. Rituals here are believed to secure blessings for health, prosperity, and family well-being.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

05:00 AM – 07:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

October – November (Chhath Puja)

How to Reach

By Air: Patna Airport (160 km) then taxi to Deo.
By Train: Deo Railway Station on Gaya–Kiul line; major junctions Gaya (60 km) & Aurangabad (35 km).
By Road: Regular buses & taxis from Aurangabad, Gaya, Patna.

Travel Tips

Cover shoulders and knees; temple dress code is modest.
Visit at sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and best light.
Carry water and sun protection—Bihar sun can be intense.
Best to avoid peak Chhath days if you prefer fewer crowds.

Nearby Attractions

Deo Fort

Sisodia Rajput stronghold adjacent to the Sun Temple, with sprawling courtyards.

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Barunark Ruins

Gupta-era Sun temple ruins a few kilometers east, with inscribed stone slabs. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

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Surya Kund

Holy bathing tank where devotees perform Chhath offerings.

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Accommodation & Dining

Deo Tourist Rest House

Basic government lodging 500 m from the temple, ideal for budget travelers.

Sunrise Homestay

Homely rooms with local breakfasts, run by a Deo family near the temple.

Solar Café & Dhaba

Local dhaba serving thalis, chai, and seasonal Chhath prasad stalls.

Testimonials

“Experiencing Chhath at this west-facing temple was unforgettable.”

— Neha Kumar

“The carvings and sunset alignment gave me goosebumps.”

— Rohit Singh

“Peaceful ambiance; a soul-stirring spiritual spot.”

— Sunita Verma

FAQs

Yes, non-flash photography is allowed in the courtyard; avoid photographing priests during rituals.

Local priests provide brief guided explanations of the temple’s iconography and rituals for a modest fee.

Deo Surya Mandir

Overview

Historical Significance

Architectural Features

Spiritual Importance