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Renowned for its magnificent sun temple, which was constructed by Narasimha Deva of Ganga dynasty of Orissa in mid 13th century is also a lovely beach resort. In Konark, the "Natya Mandir", the dance
hall of the Sun Temple probably remains as the last remnant of the glorious temples of Orissa an extant example of the architectural excellence of the times. Built in the 13th Century, here a colossal image of the chariot of the Sun, drawn by seven horses and 24 wheels symbolises the divisions of time. The main tower of Konark stood as high as 227 feet, super ceding both Lingaraja and Jagannath Temples. The Jagmohana (Porch) structure and the tower are both situated atop the stone platform supporting the 24 wheels.
The Konark Sun Temple also houses a Natamandira or dancing hall. The Vaishnadevi Mayadevi Temple stand to the West of the towers. The Sun temple of Narasimhadeva is a depiction in stone of the life of those times - royal, social, religious and military. The intricate carvings on the walls and wheels of the chariot are unprecedented in history. The fine sculptures depicting Court life, hunting, scenes, celestial deities are epitomes of precision and grace. Graceful sculptures from the world of the Kamasutra, epic of eroticism also adorn the structures. The Sun Temple standing in solitary splendour is the relic of a great past.
General information
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Altitude |
Sea level |
|
Rainfall |
152.4
cm (July
to September). |
|
Best Season |
Throughout the
year, but preferably October to March |
|
Temperature |
Summer- Max.
43
Min. 32.2; Winter- 26.7 Min. 10.6 |
|
STD Code |
67581 |
How to reach
Air
Nearest airport Bhubaneshwar (64 km) is connected with Calcutta, Delhi, Hyderabad, Madras and Nagpur.
Rail
Nearest railheads Puri (31 km) and Bhubaneshwar (64 km) are connected by rail with all the major places in India.
Road
Konark is well-connected with Puri, Bhubaneshwar and all major places in Orissa
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