Excursion to Konark Sun Temple

Explore the magnificent Konark Sun Temple and the historic town of Dhauli with your private WRJ guide who will pick you up from your hotel lobby. Our first stop is the ancient town of Dhauli, which played a significant role in Emperor Ashoka's transition from a fierce king to a peace embracing Buddhist. Dhuali, by River Daya is the site of the iconic Kalinga War, fought in 261 B.C. When emperor Ashoka took a purview of his kingdom after the war, he was greeted by bloodied bodies of the dead in his new kingdom. In that very moment, Ashoka embraced Buddhism. Centuries later, in 1972, the Japanese and Indian Buddhists built a peace pagoda (shanti-stupa) at the Kalinga Nippon Buddha Sangha. Dhauli is also known for its small-rock cut caves and ancient Hindu temples, especially the Dhavalesvara temple built in tribute to Lord Shiva. The highlight of the tour, the stunningly alluring Sun Temple of Konark is our next stop. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 13th century Sun Temple was built by King Narsingha Deva. The entire shrine is designed to form a mammoth chariot drawn by seven horses. The chariot is placed on twelve marvellously crafted wheels. While the 12 wheels symbolise the 12 months of the year, (or 24 hours of the day, according to some legends) the 7 horses, represent each day of the week. In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, this striking temple is an example of "poetry in stone". After this enriching experience, we drop you to your hotel where your trip concludes.