Konark Sun Temple
Sun Temple
- Situated on the banks of the Bay of Bengal, the Konark Sun Temple is a huge replica of the chariot of the God “Surya”.
- The temple is located in the Puri district of Odisha. This chariot with 12 pairs of finely ornate wheels is being pulled by seven horses.
- It was built in the 13th century by greatKing Narasimhadeva-I of Ganga dynasty
- The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984 and the Archaeological Survey of India- ASI is the patron of the temple.
- This temple is a perfect blend of Kalinga architecture, heritage, attractive beaches and distinct natural beauty.
- Konark is the third site of the Golden Triangle of Odisha. The first site of this golden triangle, Jagannath Puri and the second site is Bhubaneswar (the capital of Odisha).
- This temple was also known as ‘BLACK PAGODA’ due to its dark color and used as a navigational landmark by ancient sailors to Odisha. Similarly, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the “White Pagoda”.
- It remains a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, who gather here every year for the Chandrabhaga Mela around the month of February.
Source – PIB