 The Golden triangle
of Orissa comprises of Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Konark, is the renowned
pilgrimage spot in India. Konark is popular for dwelling of a colossal
temple dedicated to the Sun God. Konark is better known as a temple
city situated at the eastern state of Orissa. The existence of the
spot is about 65 kms from Bhubaneshwar and 35 kms from Puri, occupies
a predominant part in making Orissa a world-class travel destination.
The architectural grandeur with intricacy and profusion of sculptural
work of the Sun Temple bounds a huge array of Pilgrims to make their
way to Konark. Now the Sun temple is in a ruined condition but still
reflects the genius of architecture and structural design. If we
divide the word “Konark” it will come with the meaning
of Kona- Corner and Arka- Sun. The outstanding Sun Temple the
landmark of Konark is the zenith of Orissan temple architecture,
and one of the most dazzling testaments of religious construction
in the world.
Prime Pilgrimage attraction of Konark
Sun Temple: The Sun temple is a dazzling
chronicle in stone having numerous images of deities, the Surasundaris,
heavenly damsels, human musicians, lovers, dancers, and also diverse
scenes from courtly life. This imposing pile of oxidizing sandstone
is measured to be the pinnacle of Orissan architecture and one of
the optimum religious edifices anywhere in the world. The entire
temple is a chariot of the sun or Surya god with 24 wheels of 10
feet diameter. About the base of the temple, and up the ramparts
and roof, have carvings in the erotic style. Seven horses are there
to drag the temple having two lions patrolling the crushing elephants.
There remains the image of animals, plants, chap, warriors on horses
and other exciting prototypes. For catching the rays of the sun
at dawn, noon and sunset three images of Sun God positioned at a
very systematic manner.
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Magha Saptami (Sun Festival) is held on the seventh day (Saptami)
at Konark during the vivid half of the month of Magha (January/February).
At the time of the festival, the pilgrims gathered from all the parts
of the state to bathe in the sea before sunrise and then proceed to
the temple to worship. Along with the Sun Temple there exists a scared
pond where Samba was cured of Leprosy- that miracle enables the founding
of sun temple. Though the temple is now in a ruined state but able
to confine the attention of global pilgrims and tourist all through
out the year.