Going Coconuts in Konark

It's called the sun temple, and it's hundreds of years old. A huge sandstone edifice that was one once buried until being rediscovered some xxx years ago. My chatty guide was firmly certain that it's original demise was due to Portuguese shippers who removed the massive magnetic loadstone that held the temple together. They did so because it's magnetic strength was playing havoc with their navigation. Just one of dozens of theories.

Day started with a fabulous big bowl of fruit muesli. I was overdue some fresh fruit and the Peace Cafe breakfast hit the spot.

When I drifted onto the street I had no planned excursion but decided to ask some tuktuk boys how much the 36 kilometer journey there and back would cost. For Rs 700 I agreed a trip and in minutes was rattling towards Kornak.

When we arrived I had another idea why it's called the sun temple. Wiping the sweat out of my eyes, it wasn't long before the guides showed up. For once I hired one, a nice chap called Sanker who did actually help explain the structure. And later helped me to select a nice juicy coconut before giving me a lift on his motor bike back to the tuktuk park. Pictures of all participants obligatory of course.