Things like the mystical Sun Temple, beautiful beaches, and rich culture make Konark in Odisha one of the most popular tourist places in India. A large number of Indian tourists come here and the place also attracts many foreigners. Konark is a place in Puri district situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. If you are planning a vacation to a place where you can witness the history of Indian handicrafts from close quarters and enjoy the calm waves of the vast ocean, definitely visit Konark. There are many places in and around Konark where you will find a lot to explore. Although this place is mainly known all over the world for the huge Sun Temple. This temple is included in the list of world heritage.
Who got the Sun Temple built?
The temple was built by King Narasimhadeva I of the Ganga dynasty in 1250 AD. King Narasimhadeva is said to have built the Sun Temple at Konark after defeating Muslim invaders, but in the 15th century, the invaders looted the temple and the priests took it to Puri to protect the idol installed here. By this time the entire temple was badly damaged and gradually the entire temple was covered with sand. Then in the 20th century, the restoration work started under British rule and during this time the Sun Temple was discovered.
Why is the Sun Temple special?
This temple is built in the shape of the chariot of the Sun God. This chariot has 12 pairs of wheels which are shown being pulled by 7 horses. The 7 horses symbolize the 7 days and the 12 pairs of wheels represent the 24 hours of the day. It is also believed that the 12 wheels represent the 12 months of the year. This chariot-shaped temple also has 8 toddy trees which represent the 8 hours of the day. The Sun idol here is kept safe in the Jagannath Temple of Puri. That is why there is no idol of any deity in this temple. This temple reflects the speed of time.
Konark food is delicious
The main market area here is close to the beach and temple complex where a large number of Dhabas are located. Here you can enjoy vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Bengali-style fish fry is very popular here. Here you can also enjoy Continental and Chinese food.
How to reach Konark?
If you want to reach Konark by air then the nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport Bhubaneswar. From here Konark is around 65 kms where you can go by cab. If you want to go to Konark by train then you can come to Konark from Bhubaneshwar Railway Station or you can come here from Puri Railway Station. You can cover the rest of the distance by road. Konark is well connected by road to almost all parts of India.
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