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Described as a poem in stone, the sun temple at Konark is
the crowning glory of the temple architecture of Orissa. A solitary
splendour par excellence, oral history and folk mythology have created
layers of legends shrouding the genesis of this world heritage monument
built in the 13th century A.D. on the Golden Beach of Chandrabhaga.
The Dance Designs
The exquisite 'Natamandir' or the 'dancing hall' of this 700-year old
shrine is an architectural wonder. Every inch of its walls are laced with
fine artistic designs. Musicians playing drums, cymbals and other musical
instruments accompany the well-adorned sculptures in Odissi dance posses.
It is blessed with changing intensity and a range of emotions.
A Five Day Long Classical Dance Fiesta
As a fitting tribute to the majestic monument, eminent classical dancers
of India get together every year during the Konark Festival from 1st to
5th December to present live performance.
When the sun sets in the horizon and the stars appear in the sky, the
open-air auditorium against the backdrop of the floodlit temple
reverberates with the beats of 'Raga' and 'Tala' to fill the air. The
classical extravaganza is a journey through eternal ecstasy.
The festival provides a platform for both to the performing artiste and
the dance connoisseurs in appreciating the essence of various classical
dance forms of the country. The stage for the dancing event glows in
pristine glory of much admired Odissi, Bharat Natyam, Manipuri, Kathak and
Chhow Dance - a lavish feast for the eyes and ears. This experience of a
lifetime will no doubt be a cocktail of Art & Craft, Dance &
Music, Sun & Frolic - a total package for five eventful and memorable
days.
The festival is jointly organised by Orissa Tourism and Odissi Research
Centre. Elaborate arrangements are made for the tourists to witness the
festival.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air : The nearest airport from
Konark is
Bhubaneswar
.
Rail : Puri
and Bhubaneswar are the nearest railheads from Konark.
Road : Konark is connected by excellent all-weather roads with
Puri (35-kms) and Bhubaneswar (65-kms).
WHERE TO STAY
HOTELS:
Yatrinivas
Panthanivas
SPECIAL PACKAGE TOURS
(Offered by OTDC)
4 Nights / 5 days
Rs. 2828 - Single
Occupancy
Rs. 2020 - Twin
Sharingg
3 Nights / 4 days
Rs. 2323 - Single
Occupancy
Rs. 16616 - Twin
Sharingg
Places Covered:
Bhubaneswar-Puri-Konark-Chilika including
Konark Festival
Booking:
Transport Division
O.T.D.C., Bhubaneswar
Phone: 91-674-432699, fax: 431053