Konark Sun Temple

13th-century Hindu temple dedicated to the sun. Has been a World Heritage Site since 1984. Located in the village of Konark, in Orissa. Built by the king Narasimhadeva to commemorate military successes against Muslim invaders. European sailors nicknamed Konark Temple as the Black Pagoda for the temple’s immense magnetic power that used to draw ships ashore and at times even caused shipwrecks. This was because of the 52-ton magnet used to construct the peak of the temple.

Known for the exquisite stone carvings

Form of a huge chariot for the Sun God Surya, with 12 pairs of stone- carved wheels drawn by seven dynamic horses

Detail of the sculpture in one of the spokes of the stone wheel A warrior on a horse 

Detail of the sculpture in one of the spokes of the stone wheel: A lady on a couch

Depiction of a royal figure on elephant, also shown is a giraffe among the animals

One of the seven horses drawing the huge chariot shaped temple

Symbolizes the passage of time The seven horses represent the days of the week. The 12 pairs of wheels represent the 12 months of the year. Each wheel has a set of eight spokes and these spokes serve as sundials. The shadows made by these sundials give exact time of the day. 

Pair of lions crouching on elephants, Eastern staircase

Monolithic elephant

Mayadevi temple This temple was discovered while removing sand and debris in 1909. It consists of a sanctuary, a mandapa and an open platform It was dedicated to Surya's wife, and thus named the Mayadevi Temple. This temple has numerous carvings.

Natamandira or Dancing Hall The images are carved in an erotic style and posture. Carvings depict figures of divine, semi-divine, human and animal figures along with floral and geometric adornment. These sculptures appear full of emotions and gestures.

Konark Dance Festival A five day dance festival held every year in the month of February mostly from 19 to 23,  The 'dancing hall' of this temple is an architectural wonder. Since 1989, this festival has been organized in the state jointly by Odisha Tourism and Odissi Research Centre to promote the diverse Indian dance heritage as well as the popularity of Konark Temple and Odisha as a tourist destination.

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Konark beach https://spiritofventurer.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_1196.jpg

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