Videos
45 views
#konarksuntemple #suntemple #konarktemplemystery
The Konark or Konarak Sun temple is dedicated to the Hindu sun god Surya, and, conceived as a giant stone chariot with 12 wheels, it is the most famous of the few sun temples built in India. It is located about 35 km northeast of the city of Puri on the coastline in the state of Odisha (earlier Orissa). It was built c. 1250 CE by King Narasimhadeva I (r. 1238-1264 CE) of the Eastern Ganga dynasty (8th century CE - 15th century CE). The temple in its present state was declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site in 1984 CE. Although many portions are now in ruins, what remains of the temple complex continues to draw not only tourists but also Hindu pilgrims. Konarak stands as a classic example of Hindu temple architecture, complete with a colossal structure, sculptures and artwork on myriad themes.
The exact reason for the building of the temple by Narasimhadeva is not known. Historians have surmised that the king did so either to express his gratitude for a wish-fulfilment or to commemorate a conquest. Also, he could have done it simply to show his devotion to Surya, but not without adding in his own view of life as seen from a king’s perspective. This is proven by the sculptures depicting royal activities, including hunts, processions and military scenes, which 'emphasises the fact that the Sun Temple is the realisation of the dazzling dream of an ambitious and mighty king, secular to the core and with an immense zest for life'. Even in the sanctuary, the holiest spot in any Hindu temple, sculptures in niches depict secular themes; 'the themes of the niches inside the pavilions, with a single exception where a preacher-like figure is seen seated in meditation, centre on the life of a king in the palace. Thus, in one niche, an armed king is seen fondly regarding his reflection in a mirror'
Konark Sun Temple Timings
Konark Sun Temple timings are 6 am to 8 pm.
Konark Sun Temple Address
Konark Sun Temple address is Konark, Odisha 752111.
About Sun Temple Konark
Here the language of stone surpasses the language of man”, says Rabindranath Tagore, about the iconic Sun Temple at Konark.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun temple is a striking model of ancient artistry, fluidity of ideas, and a pedagogic treasury. Dedicated to the sun god, Surya, the first rays of the sun fall on the entrance of the temple. Much of the temple has fallen into rack and ruin but what remains still holds enough charm to captivate. An interpretation of a greater imagination, it has seen empires rise and fall, identities washed away, yet appealing to our sensorium even today.
Konark Sun Temple Timings
Konark Sun Temple timings are 6 am to 8 pm.
Konark Sun Temple Address
Konark Sun Temple address is Konark, Odisha 752111.
Konark Sun Temple Opening Days
The temple is open on all days.
How to reach Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple is situated in Konark, a town in the district of Puri in Odisha. It is approximately 60 km from the capital Bhubaneswar and 35 km from Puri. Konark is a famous tourist destination owing to the Sun Temple and thus it is well-connected to Puri and Bhubaneswar by trains, buses and taxis. The easiest way however, to reach Konark is to rent a cab from Puri.
