A stunning visual on a deserted coast of the Bay of Bengal, the Konark Sun Temple stands as an emblem of the brilliant artistic heritage of the Ganga Dynasty. Konark, a combination of two Sanskrit words Kona and Ark, meaning Corner and the Sun respectively, is a majestic ode to the Sun God. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark’s astounding scale & and proportions are a masterpiece of the bygone era.
Looted by the invaders, battled by the sea & wind, and ravaged by waves of time, the Sun Temple is pretty much in ruins. However, the sheer magnificence and raw ambiance of the temple are simply breathtaking.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Located within the complex, Navgraha Temple comprises of nine images in black stone depicting the nine planets.
This museum, maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, preserves & showcases the architectural pieces & fallen sculptures of Konark.
A celebration of Indian classical music & dance forms in the backdrop of the temple.
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.
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.
Just write to us, and we shall be happy to offer you luxurious tour packages to Konark. Couple your trip with temple hopping in Bhubaneswar, birding in Chilika, paying obeisance to Lord Jagannath in Puri, and a little insight into the tribal culture of Odisha. Just fill the form to receive free quotes for personalized tour packages for a memorable India tour.
We are 4 persons from Italy...we spent a lovely trip in Delhi and Ladakh...even if the weather couse us little problems the Caper Travel has solved it modifing the tour immediatly. Thanks Caper's staff!!!
Caper Travel designed a three week tour to Rajasthan and Goa for four of us in a private car during March. The driver, guides and everyone associated with the organisation were professional, reliable and punctual! We had an amazing time, made even better because of the good accomodation choices and extra additions, such as elephant and camel ride.
Thank you so much Caper for giving us a truly memorable experience of your beautiful country!
Just come back from an amazing 2 week trip to India. First we done the golden triangle which we chose to do the train trip from Delhi to Agra a must you have to do if not just for the experience. All the cities were wonderful. In mumbia we done a city tour and ended our trip in the taj for afternoon tea another must. They really looked after us thank you all.
I had memorable and incredible stay at Kerala. Caper Travel Agency - Hi life Tour arraigned everything more than perfect - transfers, transport, hotel accommodation, entire trips in Cochin, Periyar, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, Trivandrum.All of my inners tours were more than fantastic. The Agency also arranged my additional request to participate in Holi celebration (Festival if colors).
I truly recommend Caper Travel. I trusted them and they fully deserved it.
This is my third trip with Caper Travel to India (from Canada). Again, they did not disappoint! I travel solo with just the Caper car and driver, and guide. Your trip is up to you if you want it to be and Caper will make it happen.
I will go again and again to India, and I will always choose Caper Travel.
Explore the most sought after destinations and attractions with our best selling tour packages
Celebrating
25 Year's of Excellence
Eight Times National Tourism Award Winner
Maharaja Express Preferred Sales Agent (PSA-IA)
Recognized by Ministry of Tourism Government of India