Konark Sun Temple
TEMPLES OF INDIA – KONARK SUN TEMPLE
The Name Konark is derived from the Tamil word Kona (Peak) and the Sanskrit word Arka (Sun) in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun god (Surya Dev). Konark Sun Temple is a Terteenth Century Sun Temple, at Konark, Orissa. The large structure seen, is actually the mantapa (mandap). Of the main tower, which stood in the front side, only the remains can be seen. This tower was perhaps 200 feet tall, that is higher than other temple in India.
Konark is one of the well known tourist attractions of Orissa. Konark, Konark houses a colossal temple dedicated to the Sun God. Even in its ruined state it is a magnificient temple reflecting the genius of the architects that envisioned and built it. Bhubaneshwar, Konark and Puri constitute the Golden triangle of Orissa, visited in large numbers by pilgrims and tourists.
This temple takes the form of the chariot of Surya Dev, and is heavily decorated with stone carving. The entire complex was designed in the form of the god’s huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of decorated wheels at it base. The pyramidical roof soars over 30m in height. The temple complex also contains erotic sculptures similar to the temple in Khajuraho temple.