Konark

Konark, the name itself brings in the picture of the majestic Sun Temple lying near the coasts of Bay of Bengal, though in ruins but still attracting millions with its radiance. This small city has been named after the sun temple called the Konark meaning the Sun of the corner. It lies in the Indian state of Orissa and has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Apart from this spectacular edifice Konark is popular amongst the tourist for its golden beach and the bewildering carnival called the Konark Dance Festival.

Konark Sun Temple:- Built in 13th century by the Ganga dynasty King Narasingha              Deva І, this temple called the Black Pagoda was conceived as a chariot for the Sun God. It has got 12 pairs of wheel which are also sun dials, seven horses have been used for rearing this splendid chariot. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and exemplifies the heights excelled by the artist of Orissa in those days. Every corner of the temple has been decorated with sculptors to make it the most ornately carved religious pagodas of the world.

The grand temple once had the sanctum sanctorum with the image of the Sun God, the Jagmohana or the prayer hall, the Natya Mandapa where the devadasis used to perform and Bhoga Mandapa or the temple kitchen. The two giant lions with images of crushing elephants beneath their feet are the guards of this magnificent edifice while the erotic sculptors of the celestial beautifies add sensuality to its walls. The temple dedicated to the wife Sun God, Mayadevi and the Vaishnu temple can also be seen within the compound.

Though now in its ruins, the temple is the representation of the architectural grandeur and imaginative skills of artists of Orissa.

Archeological Museum:- The museum lies in the temple compound and has sculptors, and carvings from the ruins of the Sun Temple.

Konark Beach:- 3 kms from this stunning monument lies the sprawling Konark Beach. The absence of crowd and noise makes it an ideal destination for languorous laze outs.  The white surfs, golden sands, splashing waves all seem to pull you for getting drenched in the salty waters. The beach is ideal for enjoying sun bath and fishing. The spectacular views of sun caught in the arms of Bay of Bengal during Dusk and Dawn is incredible. In the evening the groups of fishermen returning from their daylong expedition creates an appeal worth witnessing on the shores.

Konark Dance Festival:- Konark Dance festival is organized annually in the Dance Mandapa of the Sun Temple during the onset or exit of winter. The carnival presents a lifetime opportunity to explore the various traditional dance forms and music of India. The performance by the eminent cultural artists illuminates every inch of this gigantic temple and it seems to come alive all through the five days of Festival.

 

• Sightseeing of Konark
• Excursion of areas near Konark
• Shopping items specialized of Konark
• Movies and theatre
• Spa and Ayurvedic treatment at hotel

 

Like most of India the months between March to June are the period of summers. The rains begin from July and continue till September. The scorching heat of the summers and the heavy rains of the monsoon restrict movement during these months in Konark. The best time to visit Konark is between October to March when the weather remains extremely pleasant.

 

Puri:- The divine city of Puri lies at a drive of 35 kms from Konark. Puri is known in the world for its Jagannath Temple, one of the four most significant shrines in Hindu religion. The golden beach of Puri is an added delight for the tourists.

Bhubaneshwar:- The state capital of Orissa, Bhubaneshwar 65 kms from Konark is thronged with around 1000 temples belonging to various periods in history. The Lingaraj temple, Rajarani temple and Mukteshwar temple are the prominent ones for their stunning architecture and splendid sculptors. Nandankanan National Park, the city zoo and handicraft emporium are other places of interest in Konark.

Kuruma, Kakatpur, Pipli, Balighai, Astaranga and Ramachandi are the other places of interest near Konark.

 

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