Cultural India

Sun Temple, Konarak

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The Sun Temple, Konarak is a 13th-century Hindu temple complex in the form of a huge chariot.

The temple is representative of the Brahman Sun Cult (Surya), which was spread here from Kashmir. The entire complex was designed in the form of a huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely stone-carved wheels. The sculptural narrative provides insight into the life of the people in the (Eastern) Ganga empire.

Community Perspective: the intricate carvings are the highlight of the site. Overall, the temple complex is quite small and needs about an hour. Take a pair of binoculars (or a strong zoom camera) to see the decorations at the higher part of the temple.

Site Info

Official Information
Full Name
Sun Temple, Konarak (ID: 246)
Country
India
Status
Inscribed 1984 Site history
History of Sun Temple, Konarak
1984: Inscribed
Inscribed
Type
Cultural
Criteria
  • i
  • iii
  • vi
Links
UNESCO
whc.unesco.org
Official
Related
  • konark.org — Site about Konark city, its 13th-century Sun Temple (a World Heritage Site), Konark Dance Festival & Konark Beach Festival
  • templenet.com — Sun Temples in India, by TempleNet.com
All Links
UNESCO.org
Official Website
Related Resources
  • konark.org — Site about Konark city, its 13th-century Sun Temple (a World Heritage Site), Konark Dance Festival & Konark Beach Festival
  • templenet.com — Sun Temples in India, by TempleNet.com
News Article

Community Information

  • Community Category
  • Religious structure: Hindu

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