Konark - कोणार्क

The Temple City

Konark is one of the precious historical sites in India, which has been listed among the world heritage sites by UNESCO for the presence of its marvellous Sun temple of the 13th century. Once, a curious traveller listens the very name of Konmark, immediately spring up in his mind is that of the Sun temple. A part from this, a beautiful stretch of beach is attracting those who are in search of complete seclusion with sea waves. The Konark beaches are known for their long stretch of clean and uncrowded areasw.

Located in Orissa, Konark is home to the Sun Temple, famous for its architectural grandeur. Konark is part of the Golden Triangle along with Bhubaneshwar and Puri - all the three cities are known for their significant temple architecture. Conceived as a chariot for the Sun God, the temple has 24 giant stone wheels (each wheel is about 10 feet in diameter) with a set of spokes and elaborate carvings. The entire structure is carved out of stone. Seven horses drag the temple and two lions guard the entrance, crushing elephants under their feet. While the temple is in ruins today, it still retains the magnanimity and splendor with which it was built. Tourists have to go up a flight of steps to the main entrance of the temple. Beautiful carvings and sculptures adorn the walls of the Sun Temple along with thousands of images of gods and goddesses.