Sun Temple – Konark, Odisha

The Sun Temple at Konark, located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is one of the most magnificent architectural marvels of ancient India. Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. Designed in the shape of a colossal chariot with intricately carved stone wheels, pillars, and walls, the temple reflects the zenith of Odishan temple architecture and the profound artistic and cultural achievements of medieval India.

About the Temple

The Konark Sun Temple, located in Konark, Odisha, is a 13th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Surya (Sun God). Built around 1250 CE by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, the temple is designed as a massive chariot drawn by seven horses, with 24 intricately carved wheels symbolizing the Sun God's celestial chariot. The temple, known for its astronomical precision and architectural grandeur, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited historical landmarks in India.

Temple Address & Location

Address: Konark Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha – 752111

Latitude & Longitude: 19.8876° N, 86.0945° E

Temple Timings & Sevas

Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Sevas: As a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, no regular religious rituals are conducted. However, the Chandrabhaga Mela (February) is a major festival celebrated here.

Travel & Transportation

How to Reach Konark Sun Temple

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (65 km away).

Taxis and state buses are available from Bhubaneswar to Konark.

By Train:Nearest Railway Station: Puri Railway Station (35 km away).

Puri is well-connected with major Indian cities like Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Visakhapatnam.

By Road:Well-connected via NH-316.

Regular buses from Puri (1-hour drive) and Bhubaneswar (2-hour drive).

Taxis and private vehicles are available.

Bus Routes to Konark

From Bhubaneswar: Regular OSRTC and private buses (Approx. 2 hours).

From Puri: Direct buses every 30 minutes (Approx. 1 hour).

From Cuttack: Travel time 2.5 hours.

Train Routes to Konark

Puri Railway Station is the nearest. Major trains include:Puri Express (from Kolkata)

Jagannath Express (from Delhi)

Konark Express (from Mumbai)

Airways to Konark

Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar.

Major Flights: Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

Food & Stay Facilities

Food Options

Local restaurants serve traditional Odia cuisine, including:Dalma (lentils & vegetables)

Chhena Poda (sweet dish)

Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice dish)

Street vendors offer fresh seafood and snacks.

Accommodation Options

Luxury Stays: Mayfair Heritage, Toshali Sands.

Budget Hotels: Konark Lodge, Sun Temple Hotel.

Government Guest Houses: Available at affordable rates.

Beachside Resorts: Near Chandrabhaga Beach for scenic stays.

Nearby Attractions & Places to Visit

Nearby Cities

Puri (35 km): Home to the famous Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach.

Bhubaneswar (65 km): The capital city, known for ancient temples and shopping.

Cuttack (85 km): Famous for silver filigree handicrafts.

Nearby Temples & Attractions

Jagannath Temple, Puri – One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar – A grand Shiva temple.

Chilika Lake (110 km) – Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.

Chandrabhaga Beach (3 km) – A scenic sunrise point.

Pipili (45 km) – Famous for appliqué handicrafts.

Raghurajpur (50 km) – A heritage crafts village for Pattachitra paintings.

Best Time to Visit

October to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Avoid Summer (April-June) – Hot and humid.

Chandrabhaga Mela (February) – Best time for cultural experience.

Shopping & Local Specialties

Handicrafts & Textiles:

Pattachitra paintings – Traditional Odisha art.

Appliqué work – Decorative stitched fabrics.

Stone & wood carvings – Inspired by Konark’s architecture.

Souvenirs & Decorative Items:

Miniature Sun Temple models.

Silver filigree jewelry from Cuttack.

Handwoven silk sarees (Bomkai, Sambalpuri).

The Sun Temple of Konark remains one of the finest representations of India’s architectural brilliance and devotion. Although partially in ruins, it continues to inspire awe with its grandeur and intricate craftsmanship. A significant historical and cultural landmark, the temple attracts thousands of visitors and scholars worldwide. Its legacy endures through its influence on Indian temple architecture and its recognition as a symbol of India’s artistic and spiritual heritage.