Konark Sun Temple, Orissa: Masterpiece in Stone
Konark destination, perhaps most known for its iconic Sun Temple, is a Hindu temple city situated in the eastern state of Orissa. Located at a distance of around 65 kms from Bhubaneswar and 35 kms from Puri, Konark is among the many places in the country to house a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. The Hindu temple town of Konark derives its name from ‘Konarka’, the Sanskrit term used to refer to the presiding deity of the Sun Temple. Konarka, actually a combination of two words—Kona (corner) and Arka (sun)—means the sun of the corner. One of the earliest centres of sun worshipping in India, Konark is referred to in the Puranas as Mundira or Mundirasvamin, and later as Konaditya or Konarka.
Long before the present temple was constructed, there are also several texts other than the Puranas that suggest the existence of a sun temple at Konark. Once a bustling port of the state of Kalinga, Konark enjoyed excellent maritime trade relations with Southeast Asian countries. Konark is not only a famous temple, but also has many other attractions, including several historical sites and temples and many beaches.
There is also an open air auditorium to the north of the Sun Temple, which is host to the popular and revered Konark Dance Festival held every December. The Konark Dance Festival attracts artists and classical dancers from all over India and is a major cultural magnet for emerging talent. Various Indian Orissa dance forms such as Odissi, Bharatnatyam, Manipuri, Kathak and Chhow are performed by dance masters and novices alike.
PLACES to VISIT in Konark- TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Konark Sun Temple is the most important and exotic destination in this beautiful temple city. It is speculated that the present structure of the Sun Temple was probably built by the Ganga king Narashimhadev I (AD 1238–64) in order to celebrate his victory over the Muslim invaders of the subcontinent. The temple was a regular feature of the region for several centuries before it fell into disuse in the early 17th century. Besides its architectural significance, the ancient temple is also widely known for its intricate and delicate sculptural work. The Konark Sun temple is actually designed in the form of a chariot for the Sun God. The chariot has 24 wheels each of which is around 10 feet in diameter. An interesting aspect is that the wheels are enamoured by a set of spokes and feature elaborate carvings. The temple chariot is being dragged by seven horses. Entrance to the chariot is guarded by two lions that are shown crushing elephants. The main entrance to the temple is reachable by a flight of steps.
Konark- TRAVEL TIPS
Oriya, Hindi, and English are the widely spoken languages in the region. Konark is a must-stop for any temple tourism initiative in east India.
BEST TIME to visit Konark
Konark can be visited any time of the year. However, the temple town is at its full glory during the Chandrabhaga Mela or Maha Saptami mela (a grand religious festival) held during the month of February. If one is more inclined to visit Konark due to its artistic significance, it would be a good idea to visit the historical temple during the month of December when the Konark Dance Festival is held in the open air auditorium that lies to the north of the Sun Temple. Find Travel Agents suiting your travel on Tripraja.com
BEST WAY to reach Konark
- By Air: The airport nearest to Konark is Bhubaneshwar that lies a mere 65 kms away.
- By Rail: The nearest railhead is Puri, 35 kms away. Puri is among the more important railway stations on the East Coast Railway.
- By Road: Konark is well connected to all the important cities in the region. Buses are plenty from all towns/cities in the region. Local transport in Konark comprises taxis, cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotels and rooms are available to suit all budgets. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via pilgrimage trip and temple trips. Note that Konark can also be enjoyed in a day trip.