Konark Sun Temple

A specimen of fine craftsmanship Konark Sun temple , is one of the prominent temple in the entire state of Orissa. Spread over 2.5 kilometers, it reflects the cultural essence and magnitude of the India's ancient architecture and timeless spirituality. The magnificent temple been dedicated to the sun God Surya. Also referred to as Black Pagoda, the 13th century Sun temple was built by Raja Narasinghs Deva-I of the Ganga Dynasty. The temple depicts the golden chariot of the Sun God Surya, pulled by white horses across the heavens on his daily trip across the sky. Today the shifting of the coastline has displaced this giant structure 2 km from the sea.


Architecture Admiration :

Only few sections of the Konark Sun temple are now in ruins, otherwise the major portions are retorted to their former glory. Konark is a masterpiece of the Orissa's medieval architecture. The whole, temple has been designed in the form of a chariot of Surya, drawn by seven horses. The entrance of the temple is ruled by the two powerful lions, which are shown crushing the war elephant. The whole temple is embellished with marvelous stone carvings. As soon as you enter the complex you are are warmly welcomed at Nata Mandir. The place where dancers were performed in order to pay respect to Sun God – Surya.

The intricate carvings and the sensuous figures in various poses will surely leave you spell binded. It is truly an archaeological treasure of India. The main sanctum which enshrined the presiding deity has been fallen off. The temple is most famous for its erotic sculptures. There are thousands of images that include deities, celestial and human musicians, dancers, lovers, and myriad scenes of courtly life, ranging from hunts and military battles to the pleasures of courtly relaxation. These are interspersed with birds, animals (close to two thousand charming and lively elephants march around the base of the main temple alone), mythological creatures, and a wealth of intricate botanical and geometrical decorative designs.

Things to See and Do :

Cultural Entertainment :

Konark Sun Temple is also the venue of famous dance festival that is celebrated here in the month of December every year. The classical dancers from all over the country perform in the open air auditorium at the temple. The major dances performed during this event are Odissi, Bharathnatyam, Manipuri, Kathak and many more. It is also the meeting point of artisans, who gather here especially for the craft mela, that gives them the opportunity to display their wares and get the right prises for them.

Konark Museum :

You can check out the Konark museum, located on the northern side of the sun temple. It consists of four galleries that exhibit nearly 260 antiquities, preserved as the reminder of ruins of sun temple. You may find amazing sculptures of Hindu God and Goddess. Than there are images of Sun God, Narayana, Gaja-Vyala and some pictures of king with his battle troop. Apart from artifacts there are objects of roaring lion, king enjoying dance performance, salabhanjikas, swans with garlands,

Sacred Dip :
When you are done with the sightseeing tour of the temple, take a sacred dip in the holy pond at Konark. It is assumed that by that the pond has some divine power through which all the one can get escape from all the worries of his life. Samba, son of lord Krishna, was cursed of Leprosy on throwing a stone in the Konark beach which fell into sacred pond and laid the foundation of Sun Temple.

Konark Beach :
Apart from being the major pilgrimage site, Konark is equally famous for it beach. So it serves you both as a religious as well as adventure destination also. So what are you waiting for? Go and try out some exciting adventure options at the Konark beach.

Enjoy the numerous water sports and fascinating the view of the rising and the setting sun. The view is simply wonderful and is something that one should not miss at all. While here you can also check out the Ramachandi Temple, located nearly 5-10 kilometers from this place.


Shopping :

There are many things to shop for at Konark. You can shop for the miniature replicas of the statutes and sculptures at the temple, exquisite sculptures, memorabilia and several woodcarvings. The paintings on the leaves and various handicraft items are also found in the stores near the temple.