Konark Travel Guide

Konark in Orissa is a very popular destination on the tourism map of India. The Sun Temple at Konark qualifies as one of the most impressive man-made monuments anywhere in the world. An awe-inspiring and wondrous structure of stone, the Sun Temple of Konark is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Built by Raja Narasimhadeva of the powerful Ganga dynasty in the 13th century, it is an imposing stone edifice representative of the Chariot of the Sun God, drawn through the heavens by seven celestial horses. The horses strain at the reins as they pull the magnificent chariot on twelve pairs of gigantic wheels symbolising the sun’s cycle and the passing of time. Even today despite it being in a state of ruin, the temple is a breathtaking sight. It is said that the construction of this creative monument took 12 years of the kingdom’s revenue.

The poet Rabindranath Tagore said of Konark that 'here the language of stone surpasses the language of man'. It is indeed an unforgettable sight - the chariot silhouetted against a backdrop of casuarinas fringed blue seas with the dying rays of the setting sun casting long shadows on the sand.

Renowned for its unique architectural design and intricate sculpture, the Sun Temple is a UNESCO world heritage site, so do travel to Konark to see it in all it's splendour.

The renowned Sun Temple - declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO- is the most impressive man-made monuments in the world. Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, it is in fact an awe-inspiring structure of stone. A must visit!