A guide to visiting the Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha

Blog Topic: Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. On the shores of the Bay of Bengal stands a temple aloof and silent. The conch shells do not sound anymore. The temple bells no longer ring their melody in the breeze of the falling dusk. Legends speak about the grandeur of the temple built by the belief of the artisans who sculpted and moulded it. Tales are told about the Sun God, to whom the temple is dedicated. The God who used to bless the temple each day. Mythical vibes and aura surround the temple. This temple came to be known to the world as the Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha.

Where is the Konark Sun Temple Located?

When the traveller meets the golden sands of the Bay of Bengal beaches, 22 miles north of Puri. He is to turn his gaze inwards towards the land. Around three km inwards, he travels on a well-marked pathway. Here, he will come across a marvel of Kalinga Architecture. This is the modern-day world’s knowledge of the Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha. Temples in Odisha remain some of the most underrated ones in terms of recognition. Konark remains within one of the most famous temples of Odisha. It can be called as the best in Odisha. The culture of Odisha is so aptly displayed and sculpted here.

Who built the Konark Sun Temple?

King Narsimha of the Ganga dynasty built the Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha in the 13th  century. The Konark Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, India, shone like the brightest jewel of Kalinga architecture throughout the centuries. 

The artisans toil day and night in progressing with the construction of this magnificent structure dedicated to the Sun God. With each passing day, the grandeur & aura of the under-construction temple blazes with the energy of the Sun God itself.

Konark Sun Temple construction history

The Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha also propagates the message of sacrifice, respect for elders, and human compassion. A sacrifice to the sun god, accepted by the Gods themselves, imparting a mythical aura to the temple itself. The Chief Architect was Bishu Maharana. While the majority of the temple was completed on time, the chief architect was unable to repair the temple’s chief spire, known as the “amalaka”. The King, frustrated, gave the architects until sunrise the next day to complete the job or face imminent death. Bishu Maharana and his team were dejected that they could not complete the temple and had to die a dishonourable death. Then appeared his son, called Dharmapada. He was 12 years old and born just before Bishu Maharana had left home for the town of Konark. 

Hearing his father’s predicament, the gifted young boy undertook the fitting of the “amalaka” by climbing to the temple’s highest point. His father was pleased to see the feat accomplished. However, the other architects grumbled that they were shamed by a mere boy professionally. Hearing this, and to avoid shaming his father, Daharamapada decided to end his life. He jumped into the sea just as the sun was rising, the deadline set by the king. 

The Gods accepted this sacrifice of the son, and the temple was completed successfully. 

Konark Sun Temple Magnet 

The legend of the Konark Sun Temple claims the existence of a powerful lodestone, 52 tonnes in weight. This was installed at the temple’s very apex. This creates a powerful magnetic field in conjunction with the idol alloy, allowing the image of the Sun god to float in midair. This magnetic field created a navigation hazard to the ships passing through as it interfered with the compass fitted onboard. Hence, at some point in history, the Portuguese forcibly removed the lodestone. Thus, causing the magnetic field to disappear, leading to the destruction of the temple idol as well. 

The legend of the Historic Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is a compelling one. It speaks of the engineering marvels of that time. The impact the temple had on the lives of even those who passed through its region.  

My first look at the Konark Sun Temple.

It is to such a deep history that I  was visiting centuries later. Walking through the sands of time, I  am trying to establish a connection between my soul and the energy that abounds in such a place. My visit also marks a long-pending desire to see the Konark Sun Temple. It has, over the years, created a deep awareness of the place’s rich history. Also recognising the impact of the temple on the soul of the Kalinga landscape over centuries. 

Konark Sun Temple is located 22 miles northeast of the city of Puri. It is close to 40 miles south of Bhubaneswar on the Bay of Bengal. This 13th-century temple is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Konark Sun Temple – My first view after 46 years

The sense of excitement and anticipation builds in me as I  put Viktor into the designated parking slot. I  quickly pick up my camera gear and walk towards the central pathway that leads to the temple entrance. Temple still remains not visible. I quicken my pace until I  turn inwards as the path converges. Lo behold, there stands in front of me the monumental arch of the Konark Sun Temple. 

My first look reveals that, while the main surviving temple is hidden behind the central staircase, the frame is dominated by the staircase. This featured a Gajasimha sculpture depicting a massive lion crushing an elephant, which gave the entrance its name. Intricately carved, it portrays a sense of colossal grandeur, conceived in the 13th century. 

Witnessing the grandeur of the Gajasimha

Quickly, I cross the security barriers and move inside. I climb the central staircase to get a glimpse of the main Konark Sun Temple. For a few minutes, I stand soaking in the sight. It is a long-cherished dream that is finally coming true, and I wish to savour the feeling and the memory of it. 

After some time, I  climb back down to examine the central staircase known as the Gajasimha. The Konark Sun Temple sculptures are truly intricate. Simultaneously, speaking about the damage caused by the multiple invaders who ravaged the temple. However, what is uppermost that is visible is the mastery and level of expertise that the artisans achieved when they constructed the temple. Not one foot of the stonework is free from any sculpture. Truly a memoir of artistry and dedication that has withstood the ravages of a century and still cannot be replicated even to this day 

Description of the temple 

The 13th-century Temple built by King Narasimha of the Gange dynasty depicts the Sun god travelling from the East across the sky on a chariot pulled by seven horses. The temple has the appearance of a chariot with twenty-four wheels and seven horses, all carved from stone. The Konark Sun Temple Wheels also symbolise the various aspects of time, the 12 months of a year and the 12 zodiac signs. 

On the Northern and Southeastern sides are the 24 carved wheels. These each around 3M in diameter, symbolic motifs referring to the cycle of seasons and months.

It is said that the temple originally stood more than 200 feet high, but with time, parts of it were destroyed, including the precious stones, which were plundered by Muslim armies in the 15th and 17th centuries.

Kalinga Architecture

The Konark Sun Temple architecture follows the Nagara style of architecture, which features the inner sanctum where the deity is housed, known as the “deul”, the pillared assembly hall called “Jagamohana” and the Tower, which is the “Shikara”. Now, as per the ASI, the Shikhara at Konark would have stood at 229 feet high, but sadly, it no longer exists. 

The Kalinga style of architecture, which is so evident, includes, in addition, the dance hall called “Nata Mandapa” and the dining hall called “Bhoga Mandapa”.

The temple faces east, so the first rays of the rising sun hit the main entrance, and the wheels of the chariot are huge sundials used to calculate the time. 

In Kalinga art architecture, this type of temple construction is known as pancha-ratha-dekha deul, as each facade is broken by five small projections to produce an effect of light and shade on the surface. The Nritya mandapa, a big pillared hall built on a very high plinth, in front of the jagamohana, was intended for offering Aarti-nrityas by the devadashis during the worship. It stands without its roof with elaborate carved pillars featuring various dancing poses.

The heritage of Konark is also where performing art meets architecture. The sculptures denote the manifestation of various Odissi dance forms chiselled into the stones. Truly remarkable to witness this marvel of Indian history. 

What is my blog about?

My blog focuses on nature-based places and offbeat destinations. India has an abundance of such places. The ruins of Hampi (read here), the Cave temples of Badami (read here), and the Panch Kedar in Uttarakhand (read here) are a few examples of diverse Historical grandeur and legends. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to see these gems of India. I write quite a bit on the ancient history and art of India, as well as other places.

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My thoughts on visiting the Sun temple at Konark,Odisha

It is to such a deep, rich history that I  ventured to see. I  spent quite a reasonable amount of time seeing the temple up close. There was something profound connected to being in its presence, while not much could be understood from the silent temple. Still, the rich architecture speaks its own language, which resonates with those who pause to listen to it as they visit the temple and its surroundings. 

The Konark Sun Temple is the culmination of the Kalinga style of architecture, with all defining elements in complete and physical form. A masterpiece of creative genius in conception as well as realisation. The temple that is moving across the heavens, driven by the seven horses of the Sun God. Truly remarkable in thought if one pauses to think on the theme. 

I can only wonder at the glory of the temple when it was at its full splendour. I tremble with excitement thinking of the glory of the sun temple under a full moon night with the waves of the Bay of Bengal crashing on its shore, a reminder of the glory that our country and its regions attained so many centuries ago. Images of the Konark Sun Temple, if clicked under such conditions, would be one of my most cherished possessions.

The impact of Konark Sun Temple on the traveller

Konark Sun Temple, Odisha, remains the invaluable link to the belief in the Sun God in Hindu mythology, a mighty Deity whose followers were seen in the foothills of the Himalayas in Kashmir and extended right to the shores of the Bay of Bengal on the eastern coast of Odisha. 

I want to go back and revisit the Sun Temple Konark, even in its present broken condition, it draws the traveller as well as the photographer to its midst. In case you wish to see the Konark Sun Temple photos clicked by me, you can check out my feed at my Instagram id @journeysthruindia

The work of 1200 master craftsmen and 12 long years in the making with dedication and sweat is what makes this temple draw indivisuals like me and many more to come from all across the country. This temple is a masterpiece and has gone in the annals of time and history. One of the most magnificient architectural wonders built in the Indian Subcontinent. 

Information about the Konark Sun Temple

• Puri to Konark Sun Temple distance: 34 km using the Puri Konark Marine Drive stretch, which is pretty scenic and recommended.
• Konark Sun Temple timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. The night light and sound show have different timings. 
• Konark Sun Temple location: It is located close to the holy temple town of Jagannath Puri, Odisha.
• Hotels near Konark Sun Temple: There are some hotels nearby; however, I  would recommend staying at Puri because this way one can also visit the Jagannath Puri temple early in the morning.The distance from Puri Jagannath Temple to Konark Sun Temple is 40 km, and it would take around 1.5 hours. 
• Konark Sun Temple ticket price: INR 40 for Indian nationals. For the light and sound show, the cost is additional. 
• Konark Temple online Ticket Booking: One can book tickets online as well using the government of Odisha’s official app. 
• Best time to visit Konark Sun Temple: I recommend a visit in the winter months and during the Spring. For timings, my recommendation for visiting the Konark Sun Temple would be around 930 AM in the morning and thereafter after 4 in the evening. There is also a light and sound show, which starts after 6:30 in the evening, followed by another at 7:30 PM. I  would highly recommend the same. 
• Bhubaneswar to Konark Sun Temple distance: From the capital city of Odisha, it is 67 km, and it would take close to 2 hours or slightly longer, depending on traffic conditions. 
• Hiring of a guide: Registered guides are available for hire, and I would recommend the same.
• Essential carrying items : Cap, glasses, water bottle, sunscreen. Do wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately, considering the crowds that come.