Konark Sun Temple

The expression of stone transcends expression of man, as said by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. The experience cannot be translated into words. A generous testimonial of artistic brilliance of time. It stage stages the true temple architecture of Orissa, the monument is one of a kind.

Konark, a small town in the Puri district of Orissa, India. The very famous Sun Temple, known as Konark Sun Temple is located here. Built in 13^th Century by Raja Narasingh Deva-I of the Ganga Dynasty is a Word Heritage Site. The ASI, Archaeological Survey of India is encharge for site preservation. A workforce of twelve hundred artisans and period of twelve years was invested in development of the temple. The temple is 229 ft. high.

The temple has both the architectural and religious significance. The temple is visited by the tourists and pilgrims. It is believed that the temple was built to honor the Sun God. A giant chariot of Lord Surya, drawn seven horses on twelve pairs of well ornamented wheels. The chariot bears a close resemble with the passage of time. The seven horses embodies the number of days in a week and the twelve pair of wheel embodies the number of months in a year. Each wheel is ornamented with 8 spokes, signifying the number of stages in women’s life. Frescos around the wheels represent military parades and hunting scenes, with thousands of rampaging elephants.

The temple has east or sun facing entrance, just in front of bhogamandapa. The main entrance is guarded by the two lions. The Hall of Offering or bhogamandapa is carved beautiful sculptures of artisans and erotic scenes. This place is used to accomplish ritual dance performance. The temple tower is believed to be the center of Konark Sun Temple, but now the Jagmohana with the pyramidal roof takes the center. It is a three tiered porch, covered with the statues of artisans mainly musicians and dancers. There is a huge statue of Shiva Natraja, performing the cosmic dance.

Getting here is a very simple task, with regular buses, minivans and jeeps from Puri. It is just 33 km from the coast. The European sailors used this temple for navigation and referred to it as Black Pagoda. Even official guided tours are available. It is open from 9am to 6pm throughout the week. The entry charges for the tour is Rs250/-each. The capital city of Orissa, Bhubaneswar is only 64 km from Konark. The airport at Capital city is well to other major cities of the country. Also the rail and road connections are well maintained.

The Konark beach is only half an hour ride from the temple. It is better known for its serene beauty and calm water. One of major activities performed at the shore by the tourists is fishing.The Konark Festival is yet another attraction held annually in February. It is organized in collaboration with Orissa Dance Academy and Konark Natya Mandap. The well-known dancers perform regional dance forms and music concert from gharanas.