Umga Sun Temple, Aurangabad | Bihar Tourism

Overview

Umga Sun Temple, located 15 km northeast of Gaya, Bihar, is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Surya. Built in the 12th century CE by the local Chandel chieftains, it remains one of eastern India’s finest examples of solar-oriented temple architecture.

Discover more about Gaya on our Gaya page or explore other Top Cities in Bihar.

Historical Significance

12th Century CE: Foundation laid by Chandel chieftains, aligned to equinox sunrise.
16th Century: Reconstruction and ornate sun-relief carvings added by local zamindars.
20th Century: Partial restoration by Archaeological Survey of India to preserve solar motifs.
21st Century: Annual Samba Dashami festival revived, drawing pilgrims from across Bihar.

Architectural Features

The temple follows the Nagara style with a chamfered shikhara oriented to the east. Each wall bears a carved niche depicting Surya’s chariot, while the entrance bears a solar wheel motif.

East-facing sanctum for equinox sunrise illumination.
Stone chariot reliefs flanking the doorway.
Intricate lotus-and-sunburst stucco panels on the plinth.
Mandapa pillars carved with Surya’s visage and lotus medallions.

Spiritual Importance

As a sacred seat of Surya worship, Umga Sun Temple draws devotees seeking vitality and healing. The Samba Dashami festival every March celebrates the sun’s strength with special pujas and fire rituals.

Equinox Sunrise

Twice a year, sunlight pierces the inner sanctum exactly at dawn.

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Samba Dashami

March festival honoring Surya with special havans and aarti.

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Healing Waters

Temple’s kund believed to cure ailments when used on solar days.

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Visiting Information

Opening Hours

06:00 AM – 07:00 PM

Entry Fee

Free (Donations Welcome)

Best Time to Visit

February – March (Equinox & Samba Dashami)

How to Reach

By Air: Gaya Airport (30 km) → taxi to Umga.
By Train: Gaya Junction → local bus to Umga (15 km).
By Road: NH-22 from Patna to Gaya, then state highway to Umga.

Travel Tips

Carry sun protection—hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
Visit at equinox for the inner-sanctum sunrise effect.
Wear lightweight, modest attire respectful of temple customs.
Bring bottled water; little shade around the temple complex.

Nearby Attractions

Mahabodhi Temple

UNESCO site where Buddha attained enlightenment, 15 km away.

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Vishnupad Temple

Ancient shrine over Lord Vishnu’s footprint, 17 km away.

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Great Buddha Statue

80-ft high Peace Statue near Bodh Gaya, 16 km away.

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Accommodation & Dining

Hotel Bodhgaya Regency

Luxury stay 15 km away with pool, rooftop view, and in-house restaurant.

Vedic Village

Heritage cottages surrounded by groves, 18 km from Umga.

Lassi Cafe & Restaurant

Traditional lassi, thalis, and snacks in cozy setting, 14 km away.

Testimonials

“Equinox alignment at dawn was spellbinding—an experience I'll never forget.”

— Rohit Jain

“Samba Dashami festival brought incredible energy—Surya ji ka ashirwad mehsoos hota hai.”

— Sangeeta Devi

“Healing kund ka paani sacchi hi divya tha—ailments mein relief mila.”

— Amitesh Kumar

FAQs

Photography allowed hai, lekin sanctum ke andar flash use na karein.

Samba Dashami har saal February ke ant mein ya March ke prarambh mein hota hai, exact date Hindu luni-solar calendar pe depend karti hai.

Umga Sun Temple

Overview

Historical Significance

Architectural Features