Konark- The Sun Temple

The sun temple of Konark was established in 13th century AD in the shape of gigantic chariot having stone wheels, pillars

and walls.

An Architectural Marvel of Eastern India that represents the ancient rich cultural-heritage to the viewers.

The sun temple is also called as the “black pagoda” and it explains the ample

testament to the artistic glory of the time.

The temple was dedicated to the sun God Surya and the name derived from sanskrit words “kona”

(angle) and “Ark” (the sun).

The Sun temple is situated on the north eastern corner of Puri and is also known as Arka Khetra.

The temple was designed as a gorgeously decorated huge chariot mounted on 24 wheels and pulled by 7

mighty horses.

The temple follows the traditional style of Kalinga architecture and it's oriented

towards the east so that the first ray of sunrise strikes the principal entrance.

The temple is widely known for it's sophisticated sculpture work and architectural greatness.

Konark is also a place where you can enjoy an exceptional mixture of marvelous temple architecture, heritage, exotic

beach and salient natural beauty.

The temple's intricate carving shows images of animals, foliage, warriors on horses etc..

The current sculpture of the temple is actually the entrance of the main temple as the main deity temple has fallen off by time.

Except the entrance some other structures are survived to the current day are dance hall (natya mandira) and

dining hall (bhoga mandapa).

Though it's fallen off or ruined but still representing the magnificent work of the people who imagined and

constructed it.

The temple also presents the “passage of time”as controlled by Sun God. The seven horses, which pull the sun temple eastwards towards the dawn, represent the days of the week and the 12 pairs of wheels

represent the 12 months of the year etc..

Facts of the temple's sculptures :-

There are 3 images of Sun God carved in the temple to catch the rays of the Sun at dawn, noon and

sunset.

The Nava Graha temple represents the nine planets of solar system.

The temple was initially built on the sea bank but as the sea receded, the temple is now a little away from the sea.

Konark Beach :-

Konark beach is considered as the finest beach in india where you will experience the calm sea breeze and walking alongside the sea

gives a memorable experience.

The beautiful view of sunrise and sunset, spotting fishermen etc. also adds most pleasant experience to the

scene.