The famous Sun temple devoted to Sun God-Surya is situated at Konark in Orissa, India. The Sun temple is also known as ‘Black Pagoda’ and is magnificently erected with the help of sandstone. The beautiful temple was developed under the Ganga dynasty reign. Sun Temple at Konark is considered a World Heritage Site and attracts tourists from around the world.
The famous legend associated with Sun temple says the Sun temple was constructed by Lord Krishna’s son ‘Samba’. Samba was suffering from leprosy and after 12 years of penance, he was relieved of this curse by Sun God – Surya. He planned and constructed the beautiful temple to visit at Konark in honour of Sun God.
The temple entrance features the sculptures of two giant lions crushing a war elephant. The elephants are carved over the human carvings and depict money. The message of ‘money and pride crushes man’ is brilliantly conveyed with these sculptures. The Sun temple also features a Nata Mandir where dancers perform to appeal Sun God. The various floral images and sculptures of Sun temple are carefully preserved at Sun Temple museum which is run by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The Sun Temple at Konark is situated near shores in the form of Chariot. The chariot dedicated to Sun God is beautifully carved and decorated. The temple was designed as a huge chariot of Lord Surya with seven horses drawing the chariot over twelve brilliantly carved wheels. The huge wheels are a major attraction of the Sun Temple. The spokes of these wheels are designed in a way to give accurate time with the help of shadows cast by the spokes. The temple also features erotic sculptures depicting the facts of life the same as those carved on Khajuraho temples. Many Tour operators are offering affordable and safe tour packages to Sun Temple Konark, India. The glory and magnificence of the temple cannot be described in words but witnessed on site.
Temple timings & Entrance Fee of Konark:
Timings: 6 P.M – 8 A. M
Entrance fee for all Indian Visitors: Rs. 10 per head.
Children up to 15 years free of cost
Entry Fees (foreigner) – Rs- 250/- per head.
Closed ON: Friday Saturday
