Located at a distance of 35 kilometres from Puri, Konark is famous for the Temple of the Sun God also known as the Black Pagoda. Located on the sandy land of Konark it is a must visit for its historical as well as architectural importance. The UNESCO has listed the Sun Temple of Konark as a World Heritage Site. The structure of the temple resembles a colossal chariot, with 24 wheels, pulled by seven straining horses, and has a three-tiered pyramidal roof topped off by a fine spire. The Sun Gods chariot also represents the seven days of the week and the 24 hours of the day. The temple is a brilliant chronicle in stone, with impressive sculptures. Scenes from court, civic life, and war are also done with great precision.
konark
Atharnala Bridge
Atharnala Bridge also makes another site to visit in Puri. It was built in the 13th century over the Mandupur stream. The bridge is situated at the entrance of the Puri town and is considered to be an architectural marvel. This massive bridge of around 85x11 metres is still in use by the city dwellers here.
Raghurajpur
Raghurajpur, a craftsmen’s village located at a distance of about 12 kilometers from Puri, is another must visit to be included in your excursion. It is the birthplace of the famous Orissa Patta chitra textiles or fabrics decorated with the art of Orissa. The village is a literally picturesque place with painters or chitrakars living in it. Raghurajpur presents the typical picture of an East Indian village with the river Bhargavi flowing just by its side watering the green paddy fields, groves of coconut, palm, mango, and jackfruit along with many betel leaf gardens in the backyards of the villagers. If you want to feel the pulse of the native Oriyas, you must not miss a visit to this cool and peaceful village.
