Sun Temple or Black Pagoda- is one of  the most prominent tourist attraction in Konark.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Konark Sun Temple is considered the finest temple dedicated to the Sun God or Surya Devta.

Temple was built in the 13th century AD by King Narasimhadev of the Ganga dynasty to celebrate a military victory. Built in the central Indian style of temple architecture, the temple has a gigantic chariot with 24 giant wheels being pulled by 7 horses.

There is an interesting legend associated with the Sun temple of Konark. It is said that Samba, the son of Lord Krishna and Jambavati, committed the mistake of entering the bathing place of Lord Krishna’s wives. Angry at his act, Lord Krishna cursed Samba with leprosy and made a proclamation that he would be relieved of this curse only when he worshipped Lord Surya with full devotion. Acting upon the order, Samba reached Konaditya Kshetra. There, he found the idol of Sun God seated on a lotus.

The boy sincerely worshipped the Lord and was finally able to obtain freedom from this punishment.

Every year, it serves as the venue for two festivals, the Konark Dance Festival and the Sun Festival and it’s a must visit pace for every visitor.