The Konark Temple is the most exciting tourist attraction in Orissa. The term ‘Konark’ has been derived from ‘Kona’ and ‘Arka’ that mean ‘corner’ and ‘sun’. 'Konark Sun Temple' is a 13th century Sun Temple at Konark, in Orissa.
It is also known as the 'Black Pagoda'. The Konark Sun Temple is shaped like a big chariot representing the Sun God’s chariot. It has 24 wheels and is pulled by seven horses.
It is one of the earliest places where Sun God was worshiped. Although few sections of the temple are now in ruins, but still the aura and the elegance of the temple is retained. Konark was once a busy port and many ships came and went. To Europeans, it served as a landmark who started calling the temple Black Pagoda. Sun Temple is considered a marvel among other temples and has been the inspiration for many writers and poets.
This sun temple is great example of orissian architecture. It is world heritage site in the world and also it is one of the seven wonders of India.
The temple was built in the thirteenth century by king Narasimhadeva of the Ganga dynasty. It was designed as a colossal solar chariot with twelve pairs of exquisitely ornamented wheels dragged by seven rearing horses.
The entire temple has been conceived as a chariot of the sun god with 24 wheels, each about 10 feet in diameter, with a set of spokes and elaborate carvings. Seven horses are dragging the entire temple and two lions guard the sun temple.
