Konark Tourism

Konark Sun Temple: This 13th-century temple is a shining example of the brilliance of Indian art and architecture. Shaped like a chariot drawn by seven horses, this temple is dedicated to the Sun God and is considered to be an extremely powerful shrine. It was built under the patronage of Raja Narasingha Deva I of the Ganga Dynasty. The architectural details and the sculptures that adorn the temple walls make it nothing less than poetry on stone. 

There are some very interesting tales about the gigantic magnets that held the temple together. It is believed that a giant 52-ton magnet atop the main sanctum kept the temple together and also enabled the main statue of the Sun God to float in the air without any support. However, since this huge magnet supposedly interfered with the compasses of the ships passing the Konark port, Portuguese sailors took the lodestone away, which also led to the destruction of the main temple structure. However, there is no historical record or evidence of the same, and it just remains a fascinating tale that travellers will often hear from locals and tour guides alike. 

Konark Museum: The museum is a treasure trove of information for archaeologists, historians, curators and art lovers. This museum was started in 1968 and has since been meticulously maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. There are three galleries in the museum which have unique antiquities displayed with a lot of care. The image of Surya in sandstone, the Khandolite-built reconstructed wheel, the images of nymphs and other mythical characters as well as the images of various Gods and Goddesses are unique attractions of this museum. In addition to the sculptures salvaged from the crumbling temple, the museum houses sculptures from various other sites of archaeological importance from all over Odisha.

Konark Math: Buddhism has had a notable presence in the regions in and around Konark and has also played a great role in shaping the culture as well as the architecture of the place. The Konark Math dedicated to the Nirakar Brahma, is also an important aspect of Konark tourism. The locals also know it as the Ashram of Samba, the son of Lord Krishna.

Kuruma: Situated at a distance of about 8 km from Konark is the small village of Kuruma where people can see the influence of Buddhism from up close. There are many stupas and ruins that narrate the tales of the influence of Buddhism.

Chandrabhaga Beach: This beach is another key attraction of Konark Odisha tourism. While most tourists come to the beach to behold the beautiful sunsets and sunrises, many pilgrims come here to take a holy dip in the sea of Chandrabhaga on certain auspicious days.

Astaranga Beach:  True to its name, this beach explodes into a myriad of colours during sunset and is a sight to behold. Besides, this beach also features in almost all Konark tourism packages because here tourists get to see the Olive Ridley Turtles from close quarters.