Location: Located at a distance of nearly 65 km from
Bhubaneswar, Konark city is famous throughout the world for its magnificent Sun
Temple.
How to Reach: From Puri it takes one hour by bus.
From Bhubaneswar by bus it takes two hours and need to change bus at Pipli and
another two hours to reach Konark.
Where to Stay: Konark has limited accommodation facility
as most of the tourists like to stay at Puri. Though there are few tourist
lodges available.
When to Go: It is advisable to avoid summer and
monsoon.
Major Attractions: The Sun Temple, Konark Dance Festival.
The small town of Konark is always crowded with hordes of
tourists because of the majestic Sun Temple- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is
almost as per of Taj Mahal. Most of the tourist takes a day trip from Puri to
Konark but also a good place to stay overnight. Konark is located nearer the
coast, Konark is known as 'Black Pagoda' by ancient sailors and was visible
from far out at sea. The small town is also a vibrant place, surrounded by
green forests. Konark is an excellent place to visit. There are exquisite
handicraft items found in the local markets, the serenity of the place and less
crowded beach of Konark, all this make Konark a rejuvenating place.
The temple was constructed in 13th century by Raja
Narasingha Deva -I of the Ganga Dynasty. The temple was established as a huge
chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of beautifully decorated
wheels after the legendary horse chariot of Sun God. The temple is famous for
its distinctive architecture and execution. This exotic temple has intricate
stone carvings on the walls of the main temple.
Sights And Activities
Sun Temple
The massive temple was established by Narasimhadeva 1 in the
13th century to celebrate his victory over Muslims. The Sun Temple was called
'Black Pagoda' by the British sailors. The Sun Temple was believed as the
cosmic chariot of the sun god, Surya. Seven mighty prancing horses,
representing the days of the week, rear at the stain of moving this levitation
of stone on 24 stone cartwheels, representing the hours of the day, positioned
around the temple base. The temple is positioned in such a way that dawn light
would illuminate the interior and presiding deity, which moved to Jagannath
Temple in 17th century. Architecture of the temple is based on Central India
temple architecture. The walls are decorated with marvelous stone carvings both
inside and outside. The temple is recognized as world heritage site.
Mayadevi Temple
Located at the southwest of Sun Temple, it is believed that
temple was dedicated to one of the sun god's wives. Erotic sculptures are
carved on the walls of the temple including dancing nymphs, court scenes,
floral motifs and hunting scenes. At the entrance two lion structures and
either side of the temple, you will observe two elephant images are erected.
Archaeological Museum
Started in the year 1968, this interesting museum is
situated 200m west of yatri Nivas, showcase more than 250 antiquities that were
found in and around Sun Temple. During the excavation of Sun Temple many
impressive sculptures and carvings were found. The signature attraction of the
museum is a full-bellied Agni (the fire god) and fulsome Bina Badini.
Konark Beach
One of the best beaches on the eastern coast, Konark beach
has clear sands and less crowded. It is also known as chandrabhaga and a
relaxing place. The Konark Sun Temple is just few paces away from the beach and
it’s a nice place to hangout in the evening.
Konark Dance Festival
The prime festival in Konark is dance festival, which is
held every year in the first week of December. It is a cultural extravaganza
includes classical music and various classical dances like Bharatanatyam,
Odissi, Manipuri, Chau, Kathak. This festival is celebrated for five days.
Shopping In Konark
Its fun to shop different items in Konark market. Konark
market is small but colorful and crowded. There are wide range of items from
sculptures depicting Hindu gods and goddess, crafts and other attractive things
to buy.
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