Sun Temple Complex, Konark

India / Orissa / Konark / Konark
 temple, monument, ruins, ancient, archaeological site

Konark, Odisha 752111, India
Phone: +91 6758 236 821
www.konark.nic.in/

Where the Language of Stone defeats the Language of man

The magnificent Sun Temple at Konark is the culmination of Orissan temple architecture, and one of the most stunning monuments of religious architecture in the world.Built by the King Narasimhadeva in the thirteenth century, the entire temple was designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with seven horses and twelve wheels, carrying the sun god, Surya, across the heavens. Surya has been a popular deity in India since the Vedic period .

Konark is one of the well known tourist attractions of Orissa. Konark, Konark houses a colossal temple dedicated to the Sun God. Even in its ruined state it is a magnificient temple reflecting the genius of the architects that envisioned and built it.

Konark is also known as Konaditya. The name Konark is derived form the words Kona - Corner and Arka - Sun; it is situated on the north eastern corner of Puri or the Chakrakshetra. Konark is also known as Arkakshetra.

This temple built in 1278 CE by the Ganga King Narasimha Deva is one of the grandest temples of India and was referred to as the Black Pagoda. The ruins of this temple were excavated in late 19th century. The tower over the Garbagriha is missing, however the Jagmohana is intact, and even in this state, it is awe inspiring.

Legend has it that Samba, the king of Krishna and Jambavati entered the bathing chamber of Krishnas wifes, and was cursed by Krishna with leprosy. It was decreed that he would be relieved of the curse by worshipping the sun God on the sea coast north east of Puri. Accordingly Samba reached Konaditya Kshetra and discovered an image of Surya seated on the lotus, worshiped him and was relieved of his curse.

It is said that the temple was not completed as conceived because the foundation was not strong enough to bear the weight of the heavy dome. Local belief has it that it was constructed in entirety, however its magnetic dome caused ships to crash near the seashore, and that the dome was removed and destroyed and that the image of the Sun God was taken to Puri.

The grand reminiscence of the sand stoned chariot shaped temple of Sun God also known as the Black Pagoda graces this peaceful place. This Temple was built by King Narasimhadeva I (AD 1236-1264) of the Ganga dynasty.Konark is a small coastal place in the state of Orissa close to the Bay of Bengal.It is well connected to Bhubaneswar(65KM) and Puri(36KM).Its population is around 15000 and literacy rate is 57%...
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   19°53'15"N   86°5'40"E

Comments

  • IT IS ALSO KNOWN AS BLACK PAGODA. VISIT AGAIN...........................................
  • ITS ONE OF THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE SUN RISE....SUN SET...
  • it reflects the capabiliti of the workers at that time
  • If u didnt see KONARKA then its ur gr8 loss
  • To be conscious that you are ignorant is a great step to knowledge. Benjamin Disraeli (1804 - 1881), Sybil, 1845 When you know a thing, to hold that you know it; and when you do not know a thing, to allow that you do not know it - this is knowledge. Confucius (551 BC - 479 BC), The Confucian Analects The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. ~Hellen Keller ~
  • Visit the monument of ancient vastu of orissa.you can hardly believe that a single iron pillar was bearing theroof of tthe temple.
  • Its a house of Volunteers walking towards a fairer Word.
  • This is most beautiful place amongst others, so, please don't miss it to see.
  • THE FAMOUS SUN TEMPLE IS SUPERB
  • this is the most beautiful place i ever seen
  • so beautiful
  • sun temple is famous in the world.It IS WONDERFUL PLACE AND dont miss in side the sea when the sun rise and sun set.Thanks to reading.
  • i love it.
  • Show all comments
This article was last modified 6 years ago