Konark , also known as Arka-Tirtha,is known for its temple of Lord
Surya,the sun god. It is situated on the sea shore, 33 km from the north of
the Puri and 64 Km from Bhubaneshwar.It was constructed on black stone in
the beginning of the 13 th centuary,and is considered as one of the most
vivid architectural showpieces of Hindu India.
The worship of Sun God is universal to all world civilizations and the
temple at Konark is a reminder of the majesty and glory associated with it.
But Konark has little else to offer apart from the temple - some shops,
stalls, a few small hotels and a tourist office. Konark is an easy one-day
trip from both Puri and Bhubaneshwar. But an overnight stay can be quite
rewarding, because once day visitors have departed, a strange peace cascade
on the temple.
Despite of the fact that the Black Pagoda is in ruins , the remaining Porch
area and other structures of Konark temple remain as the crown jewel of the
Orissan art work.
Tourist Attraction
» The Sun Temple : This temple was built in the 13th centuary
by the orissan King Raja Narasimhadeva I. It took 1,200 workmen over 16
years to build
» Konark Beach : A brisk 3-km walk from the temple brings you
to this picturesque beach by the Bay of Bengal. Don't miss out on the
sunrise, when you can also see the local fishing fleet setting out into the
sea on their century-old ritual.
» ASI Museum : Adjoining the temple complex, this museum has
sculptures and carvings retrieved from the ruins of the Sun Temple. Included
in the collection is one of the ornamental porches that once stood above the
temple entrance.
