Konark

About Konark

Click to enlarge

At the distance of 60 km from the capital city Bhubaneswar,the place is called KONARK. Konark is also called Arkakshetra or in english it's called BLACK PAGODA. Here at Konark Chandrabhaga beach stands a marvel of architectural excellence.A magnificent Sun Temple designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with seven galloping horses and twelve pairs of giant wheels each 10 ft. high fixed on either side,carrying the mythical Sun god across the heavens is the main attraction here, which draws millions of tourists every years.

King Langula Narasimhadeva built in the 13th century AD,the Sun Temple at konark is a brilliant example of the fine skills of the odiya architects.It is one of the most stunning monuments dedicated to religious architecture and has now made its way to the list of World Heritage Sites.This Sun Temple is a culmination of Odisha temple Architecture.

The main temple in the shape of a chariot along with several supplementary shrines,separate groups of statuary and the refectory is enclosed in a courtyard of 865 ft. x 540 ft. A detached structure with a square plan called Natamandir(dancing hall) faces the main flight of steps.The artistic,military,religious,social and domestic aspects of 13th century odisha are beautifully chronicled in stone at konark.

The dancing figures in various poses are gracefully carved to create a mesmerizing treat for the eyes.the fantasy created by the stone carvings here leaves the onlookers in a trance. Konark Sun Temple is one of those rare monuments of the world,which can boast of an unrestrained abundance of plastic decoration.Every single image has been chiseled and moulded with such fine artistry that one has to see it to believe. Chandrabhaga is famous for its spectacular sunrise.Such is the charisma of Konark that the heart develops an instant affinity towards the place,which lasts for a lifetime.

HOW TO REACH :

BY Rail & Road :

The Nearest railway are Bhubaneswar and Puri. Konark is 65 km from Bhubaneswar and 35 km from Puri on Marine Drive,Konark is connected by good all weather roads.Public and Tourist Bus services and Taxis are available.

By AIR :

Bhubaneswar is the nearest Airport.Indian Airlines has flights from Delhi,Kolkata,Chennai and Mumbai.Other airline like INDIGO and GO AIR have flights from different metropolis of the country to Bhubaneswar.

Place to visit

THE SUN TEMPLE :

A world famous heritage monument.

Entry Fee : *Rs. 30.00/per head for Indians

*US $ 5 or 250/- per head for foreigners

*Rate subjected to change

THE MUSEUM :

An excellent collection of sculptures from the ruins of the temple can be found in the museum run by the Archaeological survey of India adjacent of the temple.

Entry Fee : Rs. 5.00/- per head (Friday closed)

CHANDRABHAGA BEACH :

The Chandrabhaga beach at konark is one of the most beautiful and pristine beach of India.well known for its spectacular sunrise,the Chandrabhaga beach is 35 km away from the Golden beach at Puri,on the Marine Drive.Along the entire road,one can stop anywhere to enjoy the beach.The beauty of Chandrabhaga Beach can leave any visitor spell-bound.Besides, the long stretch of an excellent picnic spot where one can have lot of fun.

NEAR BY ATTRACTION :

Ramachandi Temple-(8 km) Temple of Goddess Ramachandi on the confluence of the river kushabhadra with the sea and also a nice picnic spot.

Beleswar-(20 km) A siva temple on the sea

Balighai-(25 km) Sea beach and Sea Turtle Research center

Kaplieswar-(10 km) Saiva temple on desolate sand dunes.

Kurum-(8 km) Excavated Buddhist site

Kakatpur-(25 km) Temple of Goddess Mangal on river Prachi

Here is some snap of Konark Sun Temple........