One of the most excellent monuments of religious importance, a true form of workmanship, an architecture proudly stands in the form of Konark Sun Temple at Konark. A work of Oriya architecture, the temple is a beautiful place as the language of stone defeats the human language here. Built during the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva, the temple is designed in the shape of a rath (chariot) with 7 horses and 12 wheels, carrying the sun god, (Surya) across heavens. easternprodigy.com

1. An Architecture Marvel of Eastern India and A symbol of India's heritage, Konark Sun Temple,
commonly known as Konark is situated in the eastern state of Odisha (earlier known as
Orissa), India and is one of the eminent tourist attractions. Konark houses a massive temple
dedicated to the Sun God. The word 'Konark' is a combination of two words 'Kona' and 'Arka'.
'Kona' means 'Corner' and 'Arka' means 'Sun', so when combines it becomes 'Sun of the Corner'.
Konark Sun Temple is situated on the north eastern corner of Puri and is dedicated to Sun
God. Konark is also known as Arka khetra. There are ​three images of the Sun God at three
different sides of the temple, positioned in proper direction to catch the rays of the sun at
morning, noon and evening.
Sun Temple of Konark, built in the middle of 13th century, is a massive conception of artistic
magnificence and engineering dexterity. King Narasimhadeva I, the great ruler of the Ganga
dynasty had built this temple, with the help of 1200 artisans within a period of 12 years
(1243-1255 A.D.). Since the ruler used to worship the Sun, the temple was considered as a
chariot for the Sun God. Konark Temple was designed in the form of a gorgeously decorated
chariot mounted on 24 wheels , each about 10 feet in diameter, and drawn by 7 mighty
horses. It is really difficult to understand, how this huge temple, every inch-space of which
was so wonderfully carved, could have been completed within such a short time. Whatever
that might be, the konark temple even in its present ruined state, still a wonder to the whole
world. Great poet Rabindranath Tagore wrote of Konark: "here the language of stone
surpasses the language of man."
Konark Surya Temple 13th Century (Monuments of India, Vol. 1)

2. Satellite View of Konark Sun Temple
Around the base of the temple there are images of animals, foliage, warriors on horses and
other interesting structures. On the walls and roof of the temple beautiful erotic figures are
carved. Sun temple of Konark is a masterpiece of Orissa's medieval architecture.
The Konark temple is widely known not only for its ​architectural greatness but also for the
sophistication and abundance of sculptural work. Konark is an exceptional mixture of
marvelous temple architecture, heritage, exotic beach and salient natural beauty. The large
structure of Konark Temple seen today is actually the entrance of the main temple. The main
temple which enshrined the presiding deity has fallen off and only the remains can be seen.
Even in its ruined state it is a magnificent temple reflecting the mastermind of the architects
that imagined and constructed it.
Sun Temple of Konark, Puri, Odisha, India
Inspite of the decay over the centuries the beauty of this monument is still amazing. If you
are seriously interested in architecture and sculpture then you must visit this world famous
monument.

3. Main Attractions
● The main temple structure and the geometrical patterns all
around the temple
● The carved wheels and the spokes of the wheel which serve as
sun dials
● Architectural figures including the war horses, the elephants and
the guarding lions at the entrance
● The Nata Mandir (Dancing Hall)
● Three images of Sun God at three direction of the temple to
catch the rays of the Sun at dawn, noon and sunset
● The various images of dieties, dancers, musicians, elephants and
mythical creatures
● The second level of the temple structure which showcases the
famous erotic sculptures
● The Sun temple museum run by Archaelogical Survey of India
● The Nava Graha (Nine Planets) Temple
Facts
● The Konark is the third link of Odisha's Golden Triangle. The first
link is Jagannath Puri and the second link is Bhubaneswar (Capital
city of Odisha)
● The Konark temple is constructed as a gigantic chariot with 24
wheels about three meters high and pulled by 7 horses, housing
the Sun God within
● The entrance is guarded by two huge lions, each killing a war
elephant and beneath the elephant is a man. The lions represent
pride, elephants represent wealth and both of them consumes
man
● Konark temple was initially built on the sea bank but now the sea
has receded and the temple is a little away from the beach. This

4. temple was also known as 'BLACK PAGODA' due to its dark color
and used as a navigational landmark by ancient sailors to Odisha
● Everyday, the Sun's rays would reach the Nata Mandir from the
coast and reflects from the diamond placed at the center of the
idol
● A heavy magnet was placed at the temple top and every two
stones of the temple is sandwiched by iron plates. The idol was
said to have been floating in air due to the arrangement of
magnets. The magnet at the top is said to have disturbed
compasses for coastal voyagers and later on removed.
For more information regarding the konark temple visit -
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