Konark Sun Temple

Konark Sun Temple is located at Konark, odisha, India . It is a 13th century C.E. Sun temple, attributed to King Narshimhadeva 1 of the Eastern Ganga dynasty about 1250 CE.

.              © - from Google maps.

Significance of temple:

1. The temple is dedicated to the Sun God , also known as Surya . 

2. It is one of few temples in India which are dedicated to Surya Dev, like Modhera sun temple, Gujarat; Martand Sun Temple, Kashmir.

3. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1984.

4. It is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate stone carvings.

Architecture of the temple: 

1. The temple is in shape of Chariot, with exquisitely carved wheels and galloping horses.

2. The temple also features elaborate stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

3. There are two rows of 12 wheels on each side of the temple, they cast shadows that could be used to determine the exact time. 

.              © - Google maps

4. The seven horses are said to symbolise the seven days of the week. 

.                  ©- Google maps

5. It is an example of Kalinga style of architecture ( Nagara school of temple architecture).

                          Sailors once called this Sun temple of konark the Black Pagoda because it was supposed to draw ships into the shore and cause shipwrecks.

                      As the first rays of sun fall on temple's main entrance, there is a story that - the Sun God ( Surya Dev) sat on it's chariot ( with 24 wheels , which represents the 24 hours of the day) of seven horses ( which represents 7 days of the week) and complete the cycle of day and night .