Things to do near Konark Sun Temple
Visiting the Konark Sun Temple offers a range of exciting activities, including temple tours and visits that showcase its stunning architecture. You can also experience local festivals and traditional dancing, particularly during sunrise, when the temple's beauty is truly captivating. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Odisha as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Shopping
While exploring Konark Sun Temple, you can find charming local shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. For a wider selection, head to the nearby town of Puri, which is about 12 miles away, where you can enjoy local markets and malls like the Puri Beach Market for unique gifts.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at the Ashiyana Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in Ayurvedic treatments and yoga sessions surrounded by nature. For recreation, explore the peaceful beaches nearby, or take a guided tour of the magnificent Konark Sun Temple, immersing yourself in its rich history and stunning architecture.
Adventure
Ocean World Water Park offers a thrilling escape with exhilarating water slides and wave pools, located 30 miles from Konark Sun Temple. Enjoy a fun-filled day with family vibes, entertainment, and adventure, making it the perfect spot to cool off after exploring the majestic temple.
Nightlife
While Konark is known for its stunning Sun Temple, the nightlife is more laid-back. Enjoy a serene evening at local eateries like The Chariot Restaurant, which offers authentic Odia cuisine, or relax at nearby beach shacks, soaking in the calming sounds of the ocean waves.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
![Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa, India. It is believed that the temple was built by king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty[2] in 1255 CE.[3] The temple complex is in the shape of a gigantic chariot, having elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars and walls. A major part of the structure is now in ruins. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site[4] and has also featured on various list of Seven Wonders of India. The temple is 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar.
The name Konark derives from the combination of the Sanskrit words, Kona (corner or angle) and Ark (the sun), in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun God Surya.[4]
The monument was also called the Black Pagoda'(Kaala Pagoda) by the European sailors. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the White Pagoda. Both temples served as important landmarks for the sailors.[5] Konark Sun Temple used Iron beams for its structure.
The temple was originally built at the mouth of the river Chandrabhaga, but the waterline has receded since then. The temple has been built in the form of a giant ornamented chariot of the Sun god, Surya. It has twelve pairs of elaborately carved stone wheels which are 3 meters[4] wide and is pulled by a set of seven horses (4 on the right and 3 on the left).[6] The temple follows the traditional style of Kalinga architecture. It is carefully oriented towards the east so that the first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance.[4] The temple is built from Khondalite rocks.[7][8]
The original temple had a main sanctum sanctorum (vimana), which was supposedly 229 feet[6] (70 m) tall. Due to the weight of the superstructure (70 m tall) and weak soil of the area, the main vimana fell in 1837.[9] The audience hall (Jagamohana), which is about 128 feet (39 m) tall, still stands and is the principal structure in the surviving ruins. Among the structures, which have survived to the current day, are the dance hall (Nata mandira) and dining hall (Bhoga mandapa).[4][6]
The Konark temple is also known for its erotic sculptures of maithunas.[10]
Two smaller ruined temples have been discovered nearby. One of them is called the Mayadevi Temple and is located southwest from the entrance of the main temple. It is presumed to have been dedicated to Mayadevi, one of the Sun god's wives. It has been dated to the late 11th century, earlier than the main temple.[11] The other one belongs to some unknown Vaishnava deity. Sculptures of Balarama, Varaha and Trivikrama have been found at the site, indicating it to be a Vaishnavite temple. Both temples have their primary idols missing.
A collection of fallen sculptures can be viewed at the Konark Archaeological Museum which is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6156018/09fea146-89a8-4536-94db-75e3922ba387.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=500&q=medium)
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing