Konarak
Konarak is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sun Temple, which has been widely hailed as one of the planet's greatest pieces of religious architecture. The otherwise nondescript town of Konarak is situated around 22 miles (35 kilometers) north of Puri; most travelers tend to visit the temple on a day trip from Puri. Limited accommodations are available in Konarak for those who would like to spend more than just a day there.
How to Get There
There are daily hourly buses between Puri and Konarak (the one-way trip takes about one hour), but if you can't handle crowds, hire a private taxi instead. Autorickshaws are another option, but you should first negotiate a return fare that includes sufficient waiting time.
How to Get Around
You get around the temple area by foot. To travel longer distances get an autorickshaw.
Attractions
The superb Sun Temple was built in the 13th century and is considered to be the pinnacle of Orissan temple architecture. Resembling a massive chariot (being pulled by seven huge horses), the temple was designed to be a cosmic vehicle for the sun god, Surya. The temple walls are embellished with a riot of exquisite friezes and sculptures depicting Hindu deities, animals, flowers, mythical creatures, military scenes, and numerous erotic scenes.
If you'd like to have a look at some of the sculptures and carvings that were retrieved during excavations of the Sun Temple, visit the Archaeological Museum.
Places to Eat
Konarak does not have much of a restaurant scene, with most of the best places to eat found in the hotels.
The Geetanjali Restaurant is one of the town's few restaurants that's not attached to a hotel. Its biggest advantage is its location near the Sun Temple. The decor and food are modest, but still a lot better than the town's few other independent eateries. Located east of the Sun Temple.
The restaurant at the Yatri Niwas Hotel is very good. It serves reasonably priced Indian and continental fare.
Places to Stay
There are a restricted number of decent lodgings in Konarak, which explains why the majority of travelers choose to stay in nearby Puri.
One of the most desirable places to stay is at the Yatri Niwas Hotel, which has good-size, clean rooms. There's a well-maintained garden and reputable on-site restaurant. Located near the Archaeological Museum; tel. +91 (0)6758 236820.
With a relaxing garden area and cheerful ambience, the budget-priced Labanya Lodge is a popular choice among travelers. The rooms are plain but otherwise fine (the more you pay, the larger the room size). Meals aren't available here but the staff can arrange for food to be delivered from elsewhere. Sea Beach Road; tel. +91 (0)6758 236824.
General Tips
Avoid visiting the Sun Temple on public holidays (including Sunday), when the crush of crowds can be exasperating.
For More Information
Konarak Tourist Office Yatri Niwas Hotel; tel. +91 (0)6758 236821.
UNESCO World Heritage
