Sun Temple
The magnificent Sun Temple is the prime attraction of Konark. Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, it is designed in the form of his huge chariot. The Jagamohana (porch or the audience hall) is the temple's most prominent feature. Originally, the hall had the doors facing east. The door caught the light of the morning sun and transmitted it to the sanctuary (in which the temple deity was kept) behind the porch. The sanctuary and the porch are mounted on an ornate platform carved with 24 giant wheels and seven horses. The clock-like spokes of the chariot wheels represent the hours of the day.
Watch the carvings on the porch, erotic images, some tiny and intricate, others blocky and larger than life! Behind the porch, steps lead up to three images of Surya on the south, north and west sides.
Mayadevi Temple
To the southwest of the temple, behind the sanctuary, are the remains of the Mayadevi temple, earlier thought to be dedicated to one of the Surya's wives but is now believed to be an older Surya Temple.
Archaeological Museum
Just outside the Sun Temple is the Archaeological Museum that contains many sculptures and carvings found during the temple excavations.
