Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal and one of the seven wonders of India, the Konark Sun Temple became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
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| Konark Sun Temple is a unique symbol of India's thousands of years of culture and religion. (Source: travelandleisureasia) |
The temple was built under the patronage of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty to honor the god Surya (Sun).
Hindus believe that the Sun is the source of all life, and they worship Surya as the god who brings light and life to the world. Therefore, the Konark Temple is a testament to the power and influence of Surya in Indian culture and religion.
Moreover, the temple also reflects the level of development of Kalinga (ancient capital of India) architectural art. The temple is in the shape of a giant chariot of god Surya, with 24 wheels, 7 giant statues of horses, elephants and lions.
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| The chariot of the Sun god Surya. (Source: mistay) |
This architectural form is inspired by Hindu legend, which records that the Sun God appeared in the East, moving across the sky thanks to a chariot with 12 pairs of wheels (symbolizing 12 months), pulled by 7 horses (symbolizing 7 days of the week, 7 colors).
The main entrance catches the first rays of the sun and is unobstructed, enhancing the magnificence and splendor of the entire temple. The walls have intricately carved reliefs depicting Hindu legends, vibrant human life and exciting dances.
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| Wheels in the chariot of the Sun god Surya. (Source: travelandleisureasia) |
The worship hall is about 70 meters high, although it has been turned into ruins by time, its architectural foundation is still quite intact, with a tall tower, a large hall, the Nata Mandapa ballroom and the Bhoga Mandapa dining room.
While visiting the Konark Sun Temple, visitors can visit Chandrabhaga Beach, a beautiful stretch of soft silver sand lapped by the waters of the Bay of Bengal. This beach features in many mythological stories and is considered one of the most beautiful, cleanest and greenest beaches in Eastern India.
In addition, visitors to India can explore other famous landmarks such as Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi, the marble mausoleum Taj Mahal in Agra - one of the 7 wonders of the world, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his love for his late wife.
Many magnificent forts and palaces such as the Red Fort in New Delhi, Agra Fort, Jaisalmer Fort and Amber Palace in Jaipur... are also very worth visiting places located not far from the capital New Delhi.
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