Konark is located in Orissa in East India. Konark is one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Orissa. This beautiful beach resort is popular because of the ancient Sun Temple that is located here. The word Konark basically means the abode of the Sun God and the place Konark has derived its name from the deity of the Sun temple.

The Sun Temple is a must visit while you are on a tour to Konark and in fact all the East India tour packages to Konark in Orissa include a trip to this grand temple that is a reminder of the great tradition of art and culture of the ancient past.

The Sun temple in Konark, Orissa was constructed in the 13th century by Narasimhadev I. The temple has been designed in the form of a huge chariot of the Sun god that is drawn by 7 horses. The chariot has 24 wheels and is said to be representative of the divisions of time. The entire chariot and wheels are covered with intricate and ornate carvings.

The spokes of these wheels act as sundials.
There are a number of stone sculptures that adorn the premises of this huge temple.
You must visit the Sun temple at Konark in Orissa in India during your vacations and tours, as it is an excellent example of ancient East Indian architecture. It is widely believed that the Konark temple was constructed by Narasimhadev I as a mark of victory over his enemies.

According to historical records Konark was one of the busiest port cities during the time of the Kalinga Empire.

The other temple that you must visit during your vacations and tours to Konark is the temple of Chaya Devi, though this ancient temple is in ruins, you can appreciate the intricate carvings and architecture on its walls.

The place Konark has been mentioned as one of the earliest centers Sun worshipping in India in the ancient scriptures such as the Puranas.

The best period when you can go on a tour of Konark is perhaps from October to March. Konark lies at a distance of 65 kilometers from Bhubaneshwar, Orissa and is located at a distance of 35 kilometers from Puri that is another beach town in Orissa. Thus most of the East India tour packages to Orissa that include a visit to Konark also usually include a tour to Puri. Konark is a wonderful place to visit during your vacations and tours to Orissa, India.