Daitya Sudan Temple

Believed to date to around the 12th century under the Yadava dynasty, the Daitya Sudan Temple’s stone walls carry detailed relief carvings of deities and mythological scenes comparable in craftsmanship to better-known Deccan temple sites, though it receives far fewer visitors given Lonar’s relative remoteness. Daitya Sudan Temple sits at an elevation of 608 m and is typically explored in about 1 hour. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Other notable highlights include vishnu slaying demon in basalt relief, hemadpanti black stone carvings on outer walls, and view across Lonar crater’s green lake. It falls within Buldhana district and Maharashtra, India.

State: Maharashtra

Ideal Duration: 1 Hour

Things to Do

Examine the carved lintel and doorframe for the Dashavatara panels
Sit on the temple’s plinth for a quiet break and listen to the wind across the crater
Photograph the temple’s unique position on the crater rim from the eastern platform
Climb the short stairway to the inner sanctum and observe the deity and ceiling
Circumambulate the temple’s outer sanctum to admire the Hoysala-style carvings
Trace the outer wall’s damaged bas-reliefs for surviving mythological scenes

Best Time to Visit

December, January, November, February

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there restrooms, drinking water, and food options near the temple?

There are basic public toilets about 100 meters from the temple, but they are not always clean, so it’s wise to carry your own tissues and hand sanitizer. Drinking water is available from a tap near the entrance, but we recommend carrying bottled water from your hotel. For food, there are small local eateries in Lonar town (about 1 km away) serving Maharashtrian thalis and snacks, but they close by 8 PM, so plan your meal before or after your visit accordingly.

What should we know about the temple’s architecture and significance before visiting?

This 6th-7th century temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is famous for its Hemadpanthi style, with a star-shaped platform and exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The name "Daitya Sudan" refers to Vishnu slaying the demon Lonasura, which according to legend created the Lonar crater. Do not miss the beautifully carved ceiling panels and the large idol of Vishnu in the sanctum, but note that photography inside the inner sanctum is usually prohibited.

What is the best time of day to visit the temple to avoid crowds and heat?

Early morning, between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, is ideal because the weather is cooler and the soft sunlight makes the intricate carvings on the black stone stand out. Afternoons can be very hot, especially from March to June, and the site can get busy with local pilgrims and school groups. Late afternoon (around 4:30 PM) is also good, but the light fades quickly by 5:30 PM.

Are there any entry fees, and do we need to book tickets in advance?

There is no entry fee for the Daitya Sudan Temple, as it is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, but you may need to pay a small nominal fee for parking a vehicle nearby. You do not need to book tickets in advance; simply walk in during daylight hours. However, if you want a guide to explain the mythology and carvings, you can hire one locally for around ₹200-300 for a group.

Is the Daitya Sudan Temple easily accessible for senior citizens or those with mobility issues?

The temple is located within Lonar town, and the approach road is fairly flat, but you will need to climb about 10-12 broad stone steps to reach the main shrine. There is no ramp, so if you have severe knee or balance problems, it’s best to have a companion assist you or view the temple from the courtyard. The surrounding ground is uneven in places, so wear sturdy, non-slip footwear.