This majestic temple stands at the northern end of the elevated
table-land of "Matan," about three miles to the eastward of Islamabad.
This is undoubtedly the finest position in Kashmir. The temple itself
is not now (1848) more than forty feet in height, but its solid walls
and bold outlines towering over the fluted pillars of the surrounding
colonnade give it a most imposing appearance.
There are no petty confused details; but all are distinct and massive,
and most admirably suited to the general character of the building.
Many vain speculations have been hazarded regarding the date of the
erection of this temple and the worship to which it was appropriated.
It is usually called the "House of the Pandus" by the Brahmins,
and by the people "Mattan."
The true appellation appears to be preserved in the latter, Matan being
only a corruption of the Sanscrit Marttand maartta.n.d, or the sun,
to which the temple was dedicated.
The true date of the erection of this temple - the wonder of Kashmir
- is a disputed point of chronology; but the period of its foundation
can be determined within the limits of one century, or between A.D. 370
and 500.
