Tour Packages for Konark

Situated in the Eastern state of Orissa at a distance of around 65 km from the capital Bhubaneswar, the city of Konark is known for its world famous temple, The Sun temple.

Crowned as the Black Pagoda, the Sun temple was built in the 13th century AD by Narsinhadeva I of Ganga dynasty to commemorate his victory over the Mughals.

UNESCO has declared the Sun Temple as a World Heritage Site. The structure of the temple resembles the Sun God's chariot, with 24 wheels, pulled by the seven horses. It also has a three-tiered pyramidal roof topped off by a fine spire. It is said that the Sun God's chariot represent the seven days of the week and the 24 hours of the day. The Temple, with its impressive sculptures reflects the zenith of architecture of its time. Each minute detail of every scripture has been taken care off. Erotic imagery suggesting the human love of man and woman in various forms, scenes from court, civic life and war are depicted, representing every emotion and aspect of human life. The theme of these sculptures is celebration of life.

A famous legend also goes with the temple that Samba, the son of Lord Krishna, was afflicted by leprosy, brought about by his father's curse on him. After 12 years of penance, Surya, the Sun God cured him and in whose honor he built the temple.

The museum of the Archeological Survey of India, outside the temple enclosure, is another place that attracts tourists. The carvings from ruins of the Sun Temple, the stone images of nine planet deities, the Navagrahas, and many other sculptures are kept in the museum.

The other tourist spot in this ancient city is its beach. Situated around 3 km from the temple, the sight of sunrise and sunset here is very pleasing.

Kuruma, famous for images of Buddha seated in Bhumisparsa Mudra, Chaurasi shrines, dating back to the 9th century AD, Pipli, famous for its exquisite appliqué work and Kakatapur, famous for its shrines of Goddess Mangala and Banadurga are other famous places in the region.

The famous Konark festival offers the travelers to feel the ethnicity of this ancient city.