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The temple stands majestically on an elevated platform in the heart of the city and was built in the twelfth century by the Ganga King Chodagangadeva. The structure of the temple has all richness and plasticity of Kalinga style of architecture. The 214 feet high swirling spire of the temple becomes visible even before one enters the city. The temple complex is 650 feet comprising 4 chambers- the Deul, the Jagmohana, Natamandir and Bhogamandir, surrounded by 20 feet high wall. One must visit the smaller temples of Goddess Vimla, Laxmi and Vishnu, which lie within the precincts of the main temple.

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The black Pagoda, as it was called by the European sailors, it was built in 13th century by Raja Narasimhadeva along the shores of Bay of Bengal. But now sea has moved two km away from the temple. Many myths and legends surrounds this crowning glory of Orissa. This exquisite specimen of Oriyan craftsmanship is poetry in stone and is included in the world heritage monuments. The Natya Mandir or the dancing hall of Sun temple is the only remanants of a glorious past which this palce was a witness. The whole structure in form of collosal chariot of the Sun. The chariot is drawn by seven horses and 24 wheels symbolising time.

The main tower of Konark stands 227 feets high superceding both Lingaraja and Jaganath temples. The temple is a brilliant chronicle in stone, with thousands of images including deities, the Surasundaris, heavenly damsels and dancers and other scenes from courtly life.

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