Check out the major Major Tourist Attractions
near Konark.
8 km from Konark, the Ramachandi Temple on the confluence of
river Kushabhadra is a place of worship and also a popular picnic spot.
An antique image of Buddha seated in Bhumisparsa Mudra along with the
image of Heruka discovered at Kuruma, about 8 km, makes this nondescript
village an important archaeological Buddhist site. Located in the Prachi
valley, 45 km from Konark, Kakatapur, is famous for the shrines of
Goddess Mangala and Banadurga. Legend has it that direction for reaching
the holy log from which is created Lord Jagannath's icon comes from her.
It is also the venue of the famous Jhamu Yatra. The temple of Goddess
Barahi at Chaurasi, 35 km, dates back to the 9th century AD, belonging
to the tantrik cult, it has a distinct architecture. The sea beaches at
Beleswar (20 km), Balighai (25 km) and Astranga (55 km) washed by the
waters of the Bay of Bengal are beautiful sites.
Other Places of Tourist Interest near Konark
The large Archaeological Museum, near the temple compound
houses sculptures and carvings from the ruins of the Sun Temple. Much
important pieces however are displayed at National Museum at Delhi.
Timing 0900-1700 hrs, Fridays closed. Entry Rs. 5. A 6 m chlorite stone
architrave, just outside the temple walls, bearing images of nine planet
deities, the navagrahas, originally set above one of the temple's
doorways, is now kept as a living shrine. The carved seated figures
represent Surya, Chandra, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu
and Ketu.
Along the Puri Road, the Konark Beach is much quieter and you
can get to watch local fishing fleet at work. The sunrise at this beach
is a feast for the eyes. Tourists generally locate a deserted stretch of
white sand to themselves along the Konark-Puri road to sun bathe or
picnic under busy casuarinas. Enjoy swimming but beware of strong
currents.
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