Sun Temple, Konark
At Konark, you can truly enjoy the roar of the waves and the splendid view of the 800 year old Sun Temple. Picturesquely situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal, Konark is admired with the exquisitely carved stone temple offering majestic charm. Most tourists visit Konark from Puri or Bhubaneswhar in a daytrip without staying overnight and they miss all the charms of this little temple town and its glorious Sun temple. The sight of the Sun God glowing with the first rays of the rising sun and the ruins of the majestic temple with the roar of the sea is an experience of a lifetime. The pristine beach admiring the temple town enhances the appeal of the location to the tourists. The temple reflecting the essence of Oriya art and architecture is a short stroll from the sea beach. Staying at Konark and visiting the beautiful crescent shaped Chandrabhaga Beach and Chandipur, the handicraft town of Pipli and the nearby temple towns of Puri and Bhubaneshwar would complete one of the most incredible itineraries of Orissa. BOOKING DETAILS OF KONARK
Places to see in Konark: The chief attraction of Konark is the Konark Sun Temple, which is also the most popular tourist spot in Orissa. It has been declared as World Heritage Site since 1984. The temple has been structured in the form of a giant chariot, featuring 12 pairs of wheels. The wheels are 10 feet in diameter, each signifying a single month. The chariot is pulled by seven horses. Two stone curved lions have been built near the entrance of the temple. You need to ascend a flight of steps to approach the main entrance. The temple features a three-tiered pyramidal roof admired by a nice looking spire. The temple is renowned for some exquisite stone carvings that admire the entire structure.
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The Chandrabhaga Sea Beach, located 3 km east of the Konark Sun temple is a hot spot for tourists visiting Konark. There is also a lighthouse near Chandrabhaga, which enhances the splendor of the place. View from the top of the lighthouse will make you feel out of the world. The latest addition is a natural deer park, which boosts the tourist potential of Chandrabhaga. The sight is aesthetically appealing. Pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum near the temple complex, which displays sculptures and carvings from the remnants of the Sun Temple.
Mukteshwara Temple in Bhubaneshwar
Nearby attractions of Konarak: If you want to explore further afield in Konarak, you will not be disappointed. Along the Puri Road, the unexplored and serene Konarak Beach is a major attraction of tourists, where you can watch the local fishing fleet at work. The spectacular sunrise at this beach offer visual ecstasy. The Ramachandi Temple is picturesquely located on the confluence of River Khusabhadra, 8 km from Konark. The temple is a popular place of worship and a sought-after picnic spot. If you move further, you can locate an image of Bhddha seated in Bhumisparsa Mudra along with the image of Heruka, at Kuruma. The village of Pipli famous for its handicrafts is located at a distance of 23 km from Konark. The village is famous for a wide range of distinctive selection of handicrafts and appliqué work products. There is also the temple of Goddess Barahi at Chaurasi, 35 km from Konarak, which can be traced back to the 9th century AD. You can also make a trip to Prachi valley, located 45 km from Konark to visit the temple of Kakatapur, dedicated to Goddess Mangala and Banadurga. The temple is also the venue of the Jhamu Yatra. The serene sea beaches at Baleswar and Chandipur (20 km), Balighai (25 km), Chilika (70 kms) and Astranga (55 km) are also some other popular sites. You can also visit the temple town of Puri just 35 kms away for the famous Jagannath Puri Temple and Rath Yatra. The temple town of Bhubaneshwar is around 65 kms from Konarak.
Konark Temple
Things to do in Konark: The “Konark Dance Festival,” which is held December every year in the backdrop of the Sun temple is the prime cultural attraction of the place. You will be enthralled by the wonderful performances of the celebrated classical dancers and singers, who take active part in this festival, performing in an open-air auditorium. Thousands of performers from all over the country participate in this grand festival, which is celebrated on the seventh day of the new moon of Magha. If you are travelling to Konark in February, you can also visit the Chandrabhaga Mela held every year.
How to reach Konark: The most convenient way to reach Konark is driving either from Puri (35 km) or from Bhubaneswar (65 km). The closest airport of the destination is located at Bhubaneswar. You can also avail train to Puri or Bhubaneswar and then drive to Konark. Taxis are also available from Puri running to Konark. Bus services are also available from Puri to Konark. State bus services are also available from Bhubaneswar Bus Stand to Konark.
Accommodation in Konark
Best time to visit Konark: You can visit Konark anytime of the year. However, if you want to attend the Konark Dance Festival, then visit during December.
Lodging and dining facilities in Konark: We offer lodging facilities in Government operated hotels and resorts in Konark. However, it is advisable to book rooms in advance, as there is always a tourist rush, mainly during the peak season or festival time. Excellent dining facilities are available at the hotel. There are some beach shacks and local Dhabas offering good food at Konark too.
Photograph by Arunim Roy
