Konark Sun Temple, Odisha, (East India)
The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the state of Odisha, India. It is a magnificent temple dedicated to the sun god Surya and is renowned for its architectural grandeur and intricate stone carvings. The temple is designed in the shape of a colossal chariot, with intricately carved wheels, pillars, and sculptures. The Konark Sun Temple is a masterpiece of Indian temple architecture and stands as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of ancient India. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs and admirers of architectural marvels.
Unlock the beauty of Konark Sun Temple with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Konark Sun Temple has it all
Religious Visit
Discover the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural grandeur and intricate carvings depicting the sun god and his chariot. And witness an enchanting audio-visual spectacle that brings the history and legends of ...
Best Time to Visit: October - December
Timings: 06:00-20:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 30.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Religious Visit
Visit the ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Ramachandi and enjoy the serene surroundings near the Chandrabhaga River.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Experiences
Take a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Chandrabhaga River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Best Time to Visit: October - December
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Flexible (As per your budget)
Beach
Relax on the pristine beach known for its serene atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, October - December
Timings: 06:00-16:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Festivals
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural and religious festivities, including music and dance performances, rituals, and processions in Konark.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 06:00-20:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Flexible (As per your budget)
Check local event calendars or inquire at the tourist information center for information about cultural and religious events in Konark.
Festivals
Experience the vibrant celebration of classical dance forms in the backdrop of the Sun Temple during the annual dance festival held in winter.
Best Time to Visit: December
Timings: 17:00-21:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 400.0 (Price is for 1 people)
The festival is held during the winter season. Dates and timings may vary each year. Check local event calendars for accurate information.
Sightseeing
Explore the traditional village of Kuruma known for its skilled artisans and intricate stone carving artistry, showcasing the rich cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Museum
Explore the museum showcasing a collection of sculptures, artifacts, and historical relics related to the Sun Temple and its significance.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Closed on Friday
Price: 40.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Travel Guidelines for Konark Sun Temple, Odisha (East India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Konark Sun Temple, often referred to as the Black Pagoda, is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the Sun God. Located in the coastal town of Konark in Odisha, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate stone carvings and monumental chariot-shaped structure. For an in-depth understanding, refer to the Official Odisha Tourism Website.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Konark is well connected by road to major cities in Odisha. It's about 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar.
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Konark.
By Railway: The nearest major railway station is Puri, which is well connected to various parts of India. From Puri, one can take road transport to reach Konark.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. For any ID or other travel-related concerns, reach out to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in the Konark area include Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. It's always a good idea to consult with your service provider about network coverage, especially if heading to more remote parts of Odisha.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
It's essential to adhere to the guidelines set by the Archeological Survey of India when visiting the temple. The ancient sculptures and carvings should be treated with respect, and defacing them is strictly prohibited. Health advisories can be checked on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are available for transportation within Konark. Many tourists visiting Puri often make a day trip to Konark, given its proximity.
7. Special Mentions
The temple's intricate carvings depict stories from ancient scriptures, daily life, and various dance forms.
An annual dance festival, the Konark Dance Festival, celebrates classical Indian dance forms and is held every December against the backdrop of the temple.
The Chandrabhaga Mela, a significant festival in the region, takes place close to the temple.
The nearby Chandrabhaga Beach offers a serene atmosphere and is a great place to relax after visiting the temple.