Surya Pahar is a significant but relatively unknown archaeological site in Assam, India.The site is a hilly terrain where several rock-cut Shivalingas, votive stupas and the deities of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain pantheon are scattered in an area of about one km. The site is centered on the hills of Sri Surya which is profusely filled up with Shiva Lingas
Architectural Relevance of This Shrine
Some archaeologists believe that a carved stone slab, now housed in the Sri Surya Temple and worshipped as Surya, may be the detached part that formed the ceiling of the temple of Surya. The central figure in the circular carvings of the slab has been identified as Prajapati, which is carved inside an inner circle while the surrounding outer circle is in the form of twelve lotus petals. Each lotus petal has the seated figure of an Aditya. These twelve Adityas are described as twelve solar divinities namely Dhatri, Mitra, Aryaman, Rudra, Varuna, Surya, Bhaga, Vivasvan, Pushan, Savitri, Tvastri and Vishnu. Besides the numerous stone carvings of Shiva Lingas and the ‘Prajapati’ slab, there are many rock carvings of the Hindu deities which can be seen at the foothills of Sri Surya Pahar and its adjacent areas. Notable among them are the sculptural panels of Shiva and Vishnu. The twelve-armed Vishnu with a seven-hooded canopy over its head stands prominent. It is worshipped as Dasabhuja Durga. Adorned with the necklace, kundalas, armlets, garlands, etc., the deity stands erect on a lotus.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
Guwahati is well connected with regular bus services from all the major cities in and around the states
By Rail
The Nearest railway is situated at Guwahati which is 128 km from the Surya Pahar
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Guwahati
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Shrine Timings
10 AM to 5 PM. Friday is holiday
Extra Information About this Shrine
Sri Surya Pahar holds immense religious importance as it is evident from plenty of sculptures and relics belonging to Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism. Another popular place located in the destination is Dadan Hill. The hill houses a temple at its peak that was constructed by the King of Sonipur called Bana. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by tourists in large numbers.