The Sun temple in Konark in the state of Orissa was built by King Narasimhadeva in 13th century. This magnificent temple to Surya, the Sun God, is one of India’s architectural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage. The temple was built with the intent to enshrine the image of Sun ("Arka"), the patron deity of the place. The temple was built is an interesting fashion, in the shape of a colossal chariot, carrying the sun God, Surya, across the heavens. The temple is situated in the Konark village to the north of Puri in the coastal region of the Bay of Bengal. It has extensive stone carvings on the walls, many of them highly erotic. The wheels of the chariot at the base of the temple are the main attraction of the Sun Temple. The shadow created by the spokes of the wheel act as sundials and gives the exact time of the day. Though, the temple is under ruin due to heavy erosion its magnificence is still reflected in its architects. The exquisite Sun temple is a living monument of Orissa's glorious past, frozen on the sands of time. The Sun Temple of Konark is regarded as the peak of art and architecture in the ancient Kalinga era. The roof of the temple which is pyramid shaped is made from sandstone and is about 30m in height. The entire temple was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with 24 wheels about three meters high and pulled by seven horses, carrying the sun god, Surya, across the heavens. Surya has been a popular deity in India since the Vedic period.
The entire temple complex in Konark was designed in the form of a huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely carved wheels. The temple walls are adorned with floral, geometrical, human, animal, divine and semi divine figures. Pair of monolithic elephants and horses depicts the dynamism of medieval sculpture. The entire temple was planned in such a way that it is fitted with twelve pairs of exquisitely decorated stone wheels. The sanctum symbolises the majestic parade of the Sun God and marks the apex of the Orissan architectural style. The horses were conceived in such a way that the Sun God (Surya) himself drives this chariot, his place being inside the garbhagriha. This temple is also referred as the Black Pagoda, since it was built in black granite. The Sun temple looks magnificent even in its ruined state. Only a personal visit to Konark gives a clear picture of the imposing yet exquisite temple. The sculptures of dancers as well as musicians is engraved on the walls of this hall, hence the hall was later used for the traditional dance recital. The temple is covered with exquisite sculptures of beautiful maidens, erotic couples, dancers, deities and animals. It is a magnum opus of Orissa’s architectural grandeur. The drive along the seashore from the temple town of Puri to Konark is delightful.
Around Konark Sun Temple :
1) Konark Dance Festival : The three-day cultural extravaganza, held every year in the month of December, captivates the audience from world over. he festival has assumed a kind of distinctive significance and importance for the timely efforts it has made to wards the revival, preservation and continuation of unique temple dance tradition of Orissa. Various Indian classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odisi, Kathakali etc perform here. Besides the classical dance forms, Chau-Orissa's own folk dance form is also performed during the festival.
2) Konark Beach : This beach Offers spectacular views of sunrise and sunset. One of the finest beaches of the east coast is the the sprawling beach of Konark known as Chanrabhaga. Situated 3km east of the famous Sun temple of Konark and 30km from Puri, Chandrabhaga is rich in its marine resources. Thousands of pilgrims assemble here on Kartik Purima and Magha Saptami to take a holy dip in the sea. A natural deer park is recent additions to the riches of Chandrabhaga. There is an ancient Matha believed to be the Ashram of Chandrabhaga's father and two small temples. The sight has aesthetic and importance.
3) Ramachandi Temple : About 10 km along the beach is the famous Ramachandi Temple on the banks of the river Kushabhadra. It is an ideal picnic spot. The beach is often crowded by local students as a romantic escapade or families pick nicking on the weekend. From the architectural point of view, the temple of Ramachandi is not important but from the religious point of view, it is one of the famous Sakta pithas of Puri.
Get IN :
By Air : Nearest airport Bhubaneshwar- 64 kms is connected with Calcutta, Delhi, Hyderabad, Madras and Nagpur.
By Rail : The railway stations nearest to Konark are located in the twin cities of Puri and Bhubaneswar.
By Road : Konark is well-connected with Bhubaneshwar as well as the major places. To reach Konark from Bhubaneswar, after traveling 20km take a left turn once you reach Pipli village. Travel by bus is however cheaper compared to renting a car.
