KONARK SUN TEMPLE – 9 INTERESTING FACTS
The beautiful mystical temples of India, are a true reflection of a country enriched with an incomparable historical and cultural past and exotic architecture.
One such magnificent gem is the ancient Konark temple in Orissa. Also known as the Sun Temple, dedicated to the Sun God, is located 40 kilometers from another famous temple town, Puri (well known for the Jagannath temple), and is close to the seashores of the Bay of Bengal. The architecture of this 775 year old temple is magnificent, attracting thousands of visitors every day. The tall structure you see at the start is not the actual temple, as some may believe; the main temple is located after that.
HORSE-DRAWN CHARIOT WITH WHEELS AT THE FRONT
The entrance was constructed in the shape of a massive chariot with wheels (30 meters high) drawn by seven horses. This used to be much higher than it is now, though much of it is in ruins. The entire temple is built in the Kalinga or Orissa style and is carved out of stone; embellished with beautiful artwork and geometrical patterns. A visit to this world heritage site is best appreciated by hiring a guide. During this one-hour tour, tourists learn interesting facts about that era plus the historical and religious significance of the temple.
The intricate stone carvings all around depict 13th-century lifestyle and culture, bearing an uncanny resemblance to modern-day living. Motifs of deities, royalty, trees, and animals (notably giraffes, elephants, and serpents) are equally captivating.
MAIN TEMPLE
At the stairs leading to the main temple a massive, stone figure of a lion welcomes visitors, symbolising power. While on the adjacent side, there is an elephant sculpture depicting war. Currently, the main temple (or the `mandapa’) is inaccessible to the general public due to the ongoing restoration work, however, it would be open to visitors in the near future. On the top of the structure, you can see the exquisite sculpture of the Sun God in green stone.
The wheels are not only pieces of art with fine engraved work, but also have the unique feature of a sun clock. Your guide will show you how this remarkable sundial works, displaying precise time with the movement of the sun’s rays.
Within the precincts of the temple, there is a museum also that provides information and details about the temple.
An important tip when visiting the Konark Sun temple is to carry drinking water and wear sunglasses /cap as it becomes quite hot and sunny. Within the complex, there is a decent restaurant that serves food.
Finally, on your return, it is worth stopping at the pristine beach, layered with velvety sand, which surprisingly is quite clean.
Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss
