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Temple Tours
Konark Sun Temple Tours
The
glorious Sun Temple at Konark is a shining jewel in the crown of Orissan
architecture and one of the most impressive religious monuments in the entire
world. Built in the 13th century by King Narsimhadeva I, the imposing temple is
designed in the shape of a chariot with twelve wheels and seven horses meant to
pull it. The small town of Konark is situated in the state of Orissa at a
distance of 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar.
Carved out of
black stone, this Konark Sun Temple tours is today located 2 km from the Bay of Bengal. The wheels
of the temple are 10 feet each in diameter, with intricate carvings that are a
major attraction among tourists. The spokes on the wheels are designed as
sundials and can precisely tell time during the day. The main idol of the Sun
god was moved to a shrine within the Jagannath Temple at Puri in the 17th
century, when the Mughals ruled the suba of Orissa and a few years later, the
Marathas removed the Aruna Stambha and planted it in front of the Jagannath
Temple. The Himalayas Tours and dome was destroyed as its magnetic powers used to cause ship
wrecks.
Most of the Sun temple crumbled over time due to neglect and
the cruel forces of nature and a lot was removed by kings who decorated their
own palaces with the marvelous structures. Himalayas Tours and Walking around the temple you see an
array of beautifully carved stone structures that include musicians, dancers,
animals, birds, beasts, kings and deities. The three images of the Sun god are
positioned perfectly to catch the sun rays during different times of the day.
The sculptures beautifully portray human emotions and life in all its glory. The
best season to visit the temple is from November to March.
Attractions Around
» Bhubaneshwar :
Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Orissa, was once the ancient capital of the
Kalinga empire. Situated just 65 km from Konark, the city is famous for its
magnificent temples built in unique Orissan style. The Lingaraja, Rajarani,
Muktesvara and Brahmesvara temples are among those worth visiting.
» Puri : The ancient city of Puri, also known as Jagannath Puri is
famous for the Jagannath Temple and the famous Rath Yatra. Situated 35 km from
Konark, the city is also known for its picturesque and serene beaches.
» Konark Beaches : The tranquil Konark beaches is situated at a distance of 3
km from the Sun Temple. The serenity of the place along with the picturesque
environs make it an ideal weekend getaway. Konark Beaches and A legend is associated with the pond
located nearby which is believed to be the place where Krishna's son Samba got
cured of leprosy.
» Astranga : It is a famous fishing harbour situated at a distance
of 55 km from Konark. Astranga is famous for its picture perfect surroundings
and the beautiful sun set which mesmerises many tourists.
Himalayas
Tours - Getting
There
» By Air : The airport at Bhubaneshwar situated at
a distance of 65 km is the nearest airport from Konark. Regular flights operate
from Bhubaneshwar to all the major Indian cities.
» By Rail :
The nearest railhead is at Puri, just 35 km from the temples. All the major
trains stop at Puri from where local transport can be taken to reach Konark.
Another major railway station situated nearby is at Bhubaneshwar (65
km).
» By Road : Well built roads connect Konark to Puri,
Bhubaneswar and other major cities in the state. State Transport buses as well
as private taxis are easily available.
