Konark

Facing the Bay of Bengal on the eastern coast of India, Konark is a town with huge significance in the history, culture, architecture and tourism of the state of Orissa (Odisha). The town is well-known for its centuries old Konark Sun Temple which is an outstanding specimen of the region’s art and architecture. Located in the state’s Puri District, Konark is a popular destination for historic, cultural and religious tours among people from all parts of the world. Beach tourism is another reason for many tourists to visit this East India town. Learn from the following tourist guide about the top attractions of Konark and other useful aspects of planning a trip

The Sun Temple of Konark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its architecture that showcases exquisiteness in the form of carvings, images, patterns and other amazing details. One of the best chariot temples in India, it represents the chariot of Sun God, fitted with 24 wheels and pulled by seven horses. The town, also known as Kornaditya and Arkatirtha, experiences extremely hot summers and pleasant climate during winters. Konark Dance Festival held annually in December is a major draw for the tourists (including huge flocks of westerners).

October to March

Stated below are some of the must visit places at Konark :

Cuisines serving vegetarians as well as non-vegetarians can be enjoyed at small restaurants and dhabas that are mostly confined to the main market area of Konark. While the Indian dishes dominate, there are few places serving Chinese and Continental food. One of the most recommended preparations is fish, though you must avoid it if on a pilgrimage tour.

The key attractions of the market in Konark are the appliqué work and the palm leaf paintings. Tourists are also enticed to buy beautifully embroidered umbrellas sold here in huge varieties. Souvenirs made of seashells and other categories of handicrafts (including sculptures, idols, woodwork and fabrics) are among other noteworthy items.

Direct road connections from various towns and cities in Odisha make Konark easily accessible by public transport buses and private vehicles. Travel by air to reach the nearest airport at Bhubaneswar (about 61 km. away) or board a train to reach the closest railway station at Puri (about 36 km.). Tourists rely on taxis and auto-rickshaws for sightseeing in Konark. Few tourist places in and around Konark can also be accessed on cycle-rickshaws.

Other closely located must visit places at Konark include Vaishnava Temple, Bhagabati Temple, Ramchandi Temple (also called Mayadevi Temple), Buddhist site of Kuruma and Balukhand Konark Wildlife Sanctuary (known for spotted deer, blackbuck and a variety of birds, along with enchanting landscapes). Visit the place during the grand Konark Dance Festival to enjoy the cultural music and dance performances.

Kakatpur (about 20 km.): Located on River Prachi, the town is extremely famous for its temple dedicated to Goddess Mangala. Chaurashi (about 30 km.): Famous for its Varahi Temple built in sandstone and adorned with scrollwork. Puri (about 35 km.): Among the greatest Hindu pilgrimage sites, Puri is famous for its Jagannath Temple, splendid beach and many religious sites. Beleswar (about 36 km.): Popular for its splendid beach offering opportunities like swimming, sunbathing and viewing majestic sunrise or sunset scenes. The place is also of religious importance because of a famous Shiva Temple. Pipili (about 44 km.): A small town known for its colourful and unique handicrafts. Bhubaneswar (about 65 km.): Odisha’s capital and an ancient city, it is popular for its hundreds of Hindu temples (including the very famous Lingaraj Temple and Mukteshwara Temple), Jain and Buddhist sites and Nandankanan Zoo. Chilika (about 70 km.): Asia’s largest brackish water lake, Chilika is a paradise for bird lovers and accommodates several islands and historic sites.