Konark Temple (Orissa, India)

The Sun temple Konark is the crowning glory of the temple architecture, which flourished in the 13th century Orissa. Tourists across the world travel to this temple site in large number. Also known as the 'Black Pagoda', the temple was built by Raja Narsimhadeva of the Ganga dynasty, The temple is in the form of a huge chariot, with 24 wheels. These wheels are pulled by seven straining horses. The temple has a three-tiered pyramidal roof topped off by a fine spire. The chariot of the Sun God represents the seven days of the week, and the 24 hours of the day, in its concept. The impressive sculptures of the temple makes the temple a wonder in stone. No aspect of life has been untouched in the paintings on the walls of the temple. The erotic imagery is an indication of the sublimation of human love manifested in countless forms. Added to this, there are scenes from civic life, court and war executed with great precision.

Konark temple is different from the temples of the Bhubaneswar- Konark- Puri circuit in architecture. Declared a world heritage site by the UNESCO, the place has also other important attractions. Chief among them are the Museum Of Archaeological Survey, Konark Beach and Kuruma.