Khatangi Sun Temple
The Khatangi Sun Temple is an ancient and highly revered religious site located on the banks of the Nera River. This temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and holds immense historical value dating back over 200 years. According to local legends, the main idol of the Sun God was discovered duri ng an excavation at the Khatangi fort site and was subsequently installed under a Peepal tree before the current temple was built. It is a major center for the Chhath Puja festival, attracting lakhs of devotees from Arwal, Gaya, and Aurangabad districts. The temple is surrounded by a serene rural landscape, providing a deep sense of connection with nature and divinity. The water of the Nera River flowing nearby is considered sacred, and devotees often take a dip before offering prayers. It is not just a place of worship but a symbol of the agricultural and solar traditions of Bihar.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage & ReligiousEntry Fees:
Free Entry: There is no entry fee for visiting the Khatangi Sun Temple. It is a public place of worship.
Photography Charges: Generally, there are no charges for photography, but it is polite to ask the priest before taking photos inside th...Free Entry: There is no entry fee for visiting the Khatangi Sun Temple. It is a public place of worship.
Photography Charges: Generally, there are no charges for photography, but it is polite to ask the priest before taking photos inside the "Garbhagriha" (sanctum).Timing:
Regular Timings: The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunday is considered the most auspicious day. Arriving at 5:30 AM to witness the sunrise over the river is a divine experience. ...Regular Timings: The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Sunday is considered the most auspicious day. Arriving at 5:30 AM to witness the sunrise over the river is a divine experience.Special Events:
Chhath Mahaparv: The most spectacular event occurs twice a year during Chhath Puja. The temple and the river bank are illuminated with thousands of lamps, and the atmosphere is filled with traditional songs.
Makar Sankranti: In January, a s...Chhath Mahaparv: The most spectacular event occurs twice a year during Chhath Puja. The temple and the river bank are illuminated with thousands of lamps, and the atmosphere is filled with traditional songs.
Makar Sankranti: In January, a special fair is organized where locals gather to celebrate the transition of the sun into the Capricorn zodiac.Best Photo Spots:
Sunrise over Nera: The best photo spot is from the river bank looking towards the temple as the sun rises, creating a golden silhouette.
The Black Idol: Close-up shots of the detailed black stone carving of the Sun God's chariot are highly r...Sunrise over Nera: The best photo spot is from the river bank looking towards the temple as the sun rises, creating a golden silhouette.
The Black Idol: Close-up shots of the detailed black stone carving of the Sun God's chariot are highly recommended for heritage lovers.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Religious Rituals: Observe the unique "Surya Arghya" ritual performed by the priests every morning, which is a mesmerizing sight.
River Bank Walk: Walk along the banks of the Nera River to enjoy the cool breeze and the rustic beauty of rural Bihar.
Explore the Fort: Spend some time exploring the nearby ruins of the Khatangi fort to get a sense of the area's historical depth.
Participate in Bhajans: On Sundays, which are dedicated to the Sun God, local villagers gather to sing traditional folk Bhajans that are culturally enriching.
Photography: Capture the intricate details of the seven-horse chariot of the Sun God and the rural life around the temple.
Picnic: The shaded areas around the river are...
Information
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Why Famous:
Maurya Era Influence: The temple is famous for housing a rare black stone idol of Lord Surya, which experts believe has artistic influences from the Maurya or Pala period. This makes it a site of interest for historians and archaeologists.
Chha...Maurya Era Influence: The temple is famous for housing a rare black stone idol of Lord Surya, which experts believe has artistic influences from the Maurya or Pala period. This makes it a site of interest for historians and archaeologists.
Chhath Puja Hub: It is one of the most prominent "Surya Teerths" in the region. During the Kartik and Chaiti Chhath festivals, the temple becomes the epicenter of spiritual energy in Arwal, with a unique tradition of river-bank worship that has been preserved for centuries. -
Architecture:
Medieval Stone Craft: The architecture of Khatangi Sun Temple reflects the classic North Indian temple style with a modern touch. The main sanctum houses a magnificent idol of Lord Surya carved out of black basalt stone. The idol depicts the Sun God seated on a chariot pul...Medieval Stone Craft: The architecture of Khatangi Sun Temple reflects the classic North Indian temple style with a modern touch. The main sanctum houses a magnificent idol of Lord Surya carved out of black basalt stone. The idol depicts the Sun God seated on a chariot pulled by seven horses, representing the seven colors of light. The dimensions of the temple base are roughly 30 feet by 30 feet, with a "Shikhara" (spire) rising to about 45 feet. The temple walls are adorned with relief carvings depicting various celestial bodies and scenes from the Puranas.
The Sacred Courtyard: The temple has a large open courtyard to accommodate the massive crowds during festivals. The flooring is made of polished stone to remain cool during the summers. A large "Mandapa" or pillared hall serves as a gathering space for devotees to sing devotional songs. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Patna Airport (95 KMS) is the closest. One needs to take a taxi via the Arwal-Aurangabad highway.
By Train: The nearest station is Anugrah Narayan Road (approx 45 KMS) or Jehanabad (40 KMS). Local transport like "Bhu-Bhu" (motorize... -
Near Tourist Places:
Lari Sati Sthan (10 KMS), Madhusrava Ashram (20 KMS), Belsar Sun Temple (15 KMS), Daudnagar Fort (25 KMS), Barun Dam (35 KMS), Arwal City (25 KMS), Kurtha (18 KMS), Motha Surya Mandir (12 KMS), Kinjar (22 KMS), Son River (10 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: The river bank can be slippery, so be careful while walking near the water. Carry basic medicines as the village is quite remote.
Packing: Wear cotton clothes and carry a hat. If you plan to take a dip in the river, brin...
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