Konark Sun Temple

One of the most wonderful pilgrimage destinations in India, Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is a World Heritage Site. The temple was built in the 13^th century by King Narasimhadeva after he succeeded in defeating Muslim invaders. Even in a ruined form, the temple complex demonstrates the glory of the ancient Indian architecture. It is believed that Samba, the son of Lord Krishna constructed the temple after the Lord Sun cured his leprosy.

The temple was dubbed as the Black Pagoda by European mariners as their compasses were rendered useless by the powerful magnets inside the temple as they approached the area. They also believed that the powerful magnets had great effect on the behavior of tides in the ocean. The temple was sacked by invaders, covered by sands for centuries until its restoration began in the 20^th century.

The temple complex, spread over an area of 857 ft by 540 ft depicts the Chariot of Sun on 12 pairs of wheels, moving from the East to the West with 7 powerful and silently galloping horses. The 7 horses represent the 7 days in a week and the 12 pairs of wheels represent the 12 months in a year. Thus, this temple dedicated to Lord Sun beautifully depicts the passage of time.

People from all walks of life throng the temple in huge numbers every year. While some people visit the Konark Sun Temple as a religious destination, many others come here to reconnect with the history, check out the century old building architecture at its best and hear the interesting folklore.

Most people visit this temple when are headed to Jagannath Puri and Bhubaneswar. These 3 corners form the famous Golden Triangle in the state of Odisha. The world famous Jagannath temple is just about 33km from Konark Sun Temple.