The right way to explore Konark
Konark is a small town in the Puri district of Odisha (formerly Orissa). It is situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, sixty-five kilometers from Bhubaneswar. Konark is famous for its 13th century Sun Temple and the Chandrabhaga River.
Here are a couple of things you can visit in Konark
The Magnificent Sun Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun temple is a striking model of ancient artistry and the grandeur of Indian architecture. Dedicated to the sun god, Surya. Much of the temple has fallen into the trap of time and is degenerating, but what is left of the temple is still enough to captivate you with its charisma.
The temple was built by the King Narasimhadeva-I hailing from the Eastern Ganga dynasty around 13th century CE. The name Konârka is derived from the Sanskrit word Kona (meaning angle) and word Arka (meaning sun), ‘Konark’ means the sun and its corners.
The temple referred to as Black Pagoda attributing to its dark facade by the Sailors who used it for navigation for their ships. The temple is said to be built by stone & giant magnets. It is said that the temple could draw ships towards the shore with the help of its magnetic powers and was blamed for shipwrecks by foreigners.
The temple is known for its impressive Kalinga architecture, the temple depicts a 100 ft high chariot being pulled by 7 horses on 24 wheels carved out of a single stone. According to Hindu legends, the Sun God is said to ride such Chariot that is being pulled by seven majestic white horses. There are 24 intricately designed wheels. These seven horses represent the week, the wheels stand for the 12 months while the day-cycle is symbolized by the eight spokes in the wheels. The wheels of the temple are also Sundials and can be used to calculate time.
Built of Khondalite rocks, the 230 ft high sanctum of the original temple exists no more. But, the 128 ft high audience hall, dance hall, dining hall which has survived. The entrance of the temples takes you to the deity of Surya made of Chlorite stone. The walls of the temple have many carvings depicting activities done in old times, images of different Indian rituals and Gods, musicians playing different instruments, various animals, aquatic creatures, birds, mythological creatures, and friezes narrating the Hindu texts.
You could say that the temple in addition to being a majestic shrine to the Sun god and architecture marvel is also a fine work of art carrying stories across time.
The Konark complex has other ancient ruins and structures located on its grounds.
- Mayadevi Temple — The temple dates back to the 11th century, built even before the main temple. It is said to be a shrine to Goddess Chaaya Devi (wife of Surya deva). It has a Mandap, the sanctum featuring a statue of Nataraja and various intricate carvings.
- Vaishnava Temple — Discovered during excavations in 1956, this is a small temple with sculptures of Balarama, Varaha, and Vamana–Trivikrama in its sanctum, marking it as a Vaishnavite temple.
- Kitchen — Located to the south of the bhoga mandapa (feeding hall), this was also discovered in the 1950s excavations. It includes means to bring and store water, drains, a cooking floor, depressions on the floor probably for pounding spices or grains, as well as several triple ovens (chulahs) for cooking.
Relax at Chandrabhaga Beach
Chandrabhaga beach is one of the finest beaches along the eastern coast of India. Located at a distance of 3 km from the World Heritage Site — Konark Temple, the beach is of great significance when it comes to the cultural and traditional identity of Orissa.
Because of the cultural importance it holds, many cultural activities are held at the Chandrabhaga beach. The marvelous seven day fair known as Chandrabhaga Mela is hosted every year at this beach.
Soak up your feet in the water and relax here with your loved ones.
Jungle and Riverside Camping
10 kilometers away from the UNESCO Heritage Site- Sun temple of Konark, is a small riverside retreat built by the help of the villagers. Authentic Odiya delicacies are served for you to indulge. The location is very well suited for camping and includes bonfires &light music, giving you the complete camping experience.
Book your Jungle and Riverside camping with Mounty
