Konark Sun Temple

Konark- The History

The temple was commissioned by King Narasimhadeva I of the Ganga Dynasty and built under the supervision of Bisu Mohan, the chief royal architect, and about 1200 accomplished craftsmen. Built-in black granite over 12 years, from 1243- 1255 AD, this shore temple was called the Black Pagoda by the European mariners who used it as a landmark on the eastern coast of India.

Konark – The Legend

It is said that even after toiling for 12 years, Bisu Mohan, the chief architect, was confounded by the challenge of mounting the heavy keystone at the top of the temple. He, along with 1200 other artisans, faced a death ultimatum from the king. Bisu Mohan’s 12-year old son, Dharampada, found a solution and helped install the keystone overnight. But the artisans still feared the King's wrath as a child succeeded where they all failed. Fearing disgrace & death for his father, Dharamapada climbed the temple top and jumped into the sea, thus leaving the credit to the temple artisans. He thus saved hundreds of lives and is a legend in Odiya folk tales.

Konark- The Architecture

The temple represents a mammoth chariot of the Sun God with 12 pairs of wheels drawn by 7 galloping horses. The exquisitely carved wheels represent the months in a year, the magnificent horses symbolize the days of the week, and the 8 spokes in the wheel depict the day cycle. The temple has three idols of the Sun God placed to receive sun rays in the morning, noon, and sunset. Let’s check out it’s the major structures that form the temple complex.

Jagmohan

This is the frontal porch or the assembly hall, soaring up to 100 ft and adorned with gorgeous sculptures. Its plinth is embellished with 24 exquisitely carved wheels while 7 galloping horses are carved along its eastern staircase.

Rekha Deul

This is the tallest structure at Konark, soaring up to 70 m, and is adorned with spectacular carvings with steps leading down to the inner sanctum. The inner sanctum, however, is bereft of the presiding deity, most probably looted by the invaders.

Natyamandapa

An open standalone structure, with a gorgeously carved wide platform and large columns, Natyamandapa is believed to be the dancing podium to pay obeisance to the Sun God.

Navgraha Temple

Located within the complex, Navgraha Temple comprises of nine images in black stone depicting the nine planets.

Konark Archeological Museum

This museum, maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, preserves & showcases the architectural pieces & fallen sculptures of Konark.

Konark Temple Festival

A celebration of Indian classical music & dance forms in the backdrop of the temple.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this architectural marvel would be in the winter season from October to March when the weather is cool enough for sightseeing.

How to Reach

By Air - Bhubaneswar Airport, around 65 km from Konark, is the nearest airport connecting you with major Indian cities.

By Rail - Puri Railway Station, around 35 km from Konark, is the closest railhead connecting Konark by a network of direct & express trains.

By Road - A network of roads & highways connect Konark to the rest of the cities in the region. Both State-run & private buses and taxis ply regularly to Konark.