Konark - India Travel Guide hero image

Konark!

india-guide.in

groups

Population

20,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

calendar_month

Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

currency_rupee

Currency

Rupee (₹)

View full travel guide
See timings and practical tips

Plan by Intent

Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.

photo_camera

Did You Visit Konark?

Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit

location_on Odisha map East India 🏖️ Beaches 🕉️ Spiritual Historical Sites Beaches Konark Sun Temple Odisha East India UNESCO beach Odissi dance

Konark is a small town in Odisha, India, renowned for the Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural marvel, dedicated to the Sun God, is a major draw for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Konark offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The Sun Temple is an absolute must-see, and the nearby beach provides relaxation. However, the town can get crowded during peak season, and accommodation options are limited.

A trip to Konark requires at least a day or two to fully appreciate the Sun Temple and its surroundings. Getting there is easiest from Bhubaneswar, and local transport is readily available.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

20-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for sightseeing. The humidity is low, and the temperatures are comfortable.

Why Visit:

This is the best time to explore the Sun Temple and enjoy the beach without the scorching heat. The Konark Dance Festival also takes place in December, adding a cultural dimension to your visit. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Tip: Expect higher prices for accommodation and more crowds, especially during the Konark Dance Festival. Book your accommodation and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. The landscapes become lush green, but outdoor activities may be restricted.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season offers a unique perspective with fewer tourists and lower prices. However, be prepared for frequent rain and potential disruptions to travel plans.

Tip: Some attractions may have limited hours or be temporarily closed due to the weather. Check local weather forecasts before planning your trip.

Avoid

April to June

30-40 degrees C

Extremely hot and humid weather makes it uncomfortable for sightseeing. Temperatures can soar, making it difficult to explore during the day.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months due to the oppressive heat and humidity. Outdoor activities become exhausting, and the overall experience is less enjoyable.

Note: Some smaller establishments may close during the hottest part of the day. If you must visit, stay hydrated and seek indoor activities during peak heat hours.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Sun Temple

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

The Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Surya temple at Konark. Attributed to King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, it's a masterpiece of Kal...

Read more arrow_forward

Chandrabhaga Beach

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Chandrabhaga Beach is a serene beach known for its clean sands and clear waters. It's believed to have been cursed, losing its original beauty....

Read more arrow_forward

Archaeological Museum

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

The Archaeological Museum houses a collection of sculptures and artifacts recovered from the Sun Temple complex. It provides insights into the history...

Read more arrow_forward

Konark Math

⏱ 1 hour Free

The Konark Math is a small monastery associated with the Sun Temple. It offers a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into local religious practices....

Read more arrow_forward

Marine Drive

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Marine Drive is a scenic road connecting Puri and Konark. It offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and the surrounding landscape....

Read more arrow_forward

Kuruma

⏱ 2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Kuruma is an ancient Buddhist site discovered in the early 2000s. It features the ruins of a monastery and several Buddhist sculptures....

Read more arrow_forward

Ramchandi Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

Ramchandi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Ramchandi, a form of Durga. It's a popular pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike....

Read more arrow_forward
View all attraction details

Things To Do

attractions

Beach Camping

⏱ 1 night 💰 ₹1500-3000 per person

Experience the thrill of camping on the beach under the stars. Enjoy bonfires, music, and stargazing....

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Surfing Lessons

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹800-1500 per person

Learn to surf at Chandrabhaga Beach with experienced instructors. Enjoy the thrill of riding the waves....

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Cycling Tour

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person

Explore the countryside around Konark on a guided cycling tour. Discover hidden gems and scenic landscapes....

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Bird Watching

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹300-500 per person (guide charges)

Visit the nearby wetlands and forests to spot a variety of birds. Konark is home to several migratory and resident bird ...

Read more arrow_forward

Cultural Experiences

celebration

Konark Dance Festival

5 days | ₹200-500 per day

The Konark Dance Festival is a celebration of classical Indian dance forms, particularly Odissi. Ren...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Odissi Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹300-800

Odissi is a classical Indian dance form originating from Odisha. It's characterized by graceful move...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Sand Art Workshop

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000

Learn the art of creating sculptures from sand with skilled artisans. Sand art is a popular art form...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Local Craft Shopping

2-3 hours | Variable, depending on purchases

Explore the local markets and shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Konark is known for it...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Village Visit

3-4 hours | ₹500-1000 per person

Visit a nearby village to experience the rural life and culture of Odisha. Interact with the locals ...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Pattachitra Painting Demonstration

1-2 hours | Free (donations appreciated)

Pattachitra is a traditional cloth-based scroll painting from Odisha. The paintings depict mythologi...

Read more arrow_forward
View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Chhena Poda
Chhena Poda

A baked cheese dessert, available at sweet shops near the Sun Temple.

Dalma
Dalma

A traditional lentil and vegetable dish, try it at local restaurants.

Seafood
Seafood

Fresh seafood preparations are available at restaurants near Chandrabhaga Beach.

Pakhala Bhata
Pakhala Bhata

Fermented rice dish, try it at local eateries for an authentic experience.

Rasabali
Rasabali

Deep-fried cheese patties soaked in thickened, sweetened milk. Available at most sweet shops.

Where to Eat

Konark Restaurant

Konark Restaurant

₹₹

Indian, Chinese

📍 Near the Sun Temple

A popular restaurant with a wide range of dishes. Offers a comfortable dining experience and good service.

Seafood dishes

₹500-800 for two

Chandrabhaga Restaurant

Chandrabhaga Restaurant

₹₹

Seafood

📍 Chandrabhaga Beach

Specializes in fresh seafood preparations. Enjoy the delicious food with a view of the beach.

Fish Curry

₹400-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Near Sun Temple

Near Sun Temple

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene. Choose stalls with a lot of customers and freshly prepared food.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Konark

More restaurants & dishes from Konark

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near the Sun Temple

Staying near the Sun Temple is convenient for sightseeing. However, it can be crowded and noisy, especially during peak season.

Best For: First-time visitors, history enthusiasts

Marine Drive

Marine Drive offers a more peaceful and scenic location. It's ideal for those who want to be close to the beach.

Best For: Couples, nature lovers

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

OTDC Panthashala Konark

📍 Near the Sun Temple

A government-run guesthouse offering basic but clean rooms. It's a convenient and affordable option.

₹800-1200/night

Sun Temple Guest House

📍 Near the Sun Temple

A simple guesthouse with comfortable rooms and essential amenities. Offers good value for money.

₹600-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹1500-2500/night

Hotel Surya Inn

📍 Near the Sun Temple

A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and a restaurant. Offers a good balance of price and quality.

₹1500-2500/night

Lotus Eco Resort Konark

📍 On the Marine Drive

An eco-friendly resort with spacious rooms and a swimming pool. Offers a relaxing and sustainable stay.

₹2000-3000/night

Luxury

₹6000+/night

Mayfair Waves, Puri

📍 Puri (nearby)

A luxury resort with stunning sea views and world-class amenities. Located in Puri, about 35 km from Konark.

₹6000+/night

Pramod Convention & Beach Resort

📍 Puri (nearby)

A high-end resort with a private beach and multiple dining options. It provides a lavish and comfortable experience.

₹5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), 65km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Puri Railway Station (PURI)

Main railway station, well-connected to major cities. Located about 35 km from Konark.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 24 hours (₹800-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 30 hours (₹900-3500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Konark Bus Stand
  • Puri Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Puri: 1 hour (₹50-80)
  • From Bhubaneswar: 2 hours (₹100-150)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200

Best for: Short distances within Konark

Bargain before you start. Agree on the price beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

💰 ₹800-1500 per day

Best for: Full-day sightseeing, traveling with family

Hire a taxi for the entire day for convenience.

directions_bus

Bus

💰 ₹10-30

Best for: Budget travelers, traveling between Konark and Puri

Buses can be crowded. Check the schedule beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear light and comfortable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹800, Mid: ₹2000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Limited availability, carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions. Cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach infections. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in major towns. Jio and Airtel are good options.

WiFi: Available at some hotels and restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learn a few basic Odia phrases.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

Nearby Destinations

Explore More Of India

Mandvi - India Travel Guide

Mandvi - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Mandvi Beach
  • Vijay Vilas Palace
  • 72 Jinalaya Jain Temple

+3 more attractions

Kumbdaje - India Travel Guide

Kumbdaje - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Kumbdaje Durga Parameshwari Temple
  • Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Adoor Waterfalls

+3 more attractions

Tarkarli - India Travel Guide

Tarkarli - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Tarkarli Beach
  • Devbagh Beach
  • Sindhudurg Fort

+3 more attractions

Ambalavayal - India Travel Guide

Ambalavayal - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Wayanad Heritage Museum
  • Edakkal Cave
  • Phantom Rock

+2 more attractions

Jalore - India Travel Guide

Jalore - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Jalore Fort
  • Sire Mandir
  • Malik Shah's Mosque

+3 more attractions

Bokaro - India Travel Guide

Bokaro - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • Bokaro Steel Plant
  • Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park
  • City Park

+3 more attractions

Kedarnath - India Travel Guide

Kedarnath - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Kedarnath Temple
  • Bhairav Temple
  • Gandhi Sarovar (Chorabari Tal)

+3 more attractions

Ranchi - India Travel Guide

Ranchi - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • Hundru Falls
  • Jonha Falls (Gautamdhara)
  • Dassam Falls

+3 more attractions

Share Your Konark Photos!

Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!

Found an Error?

Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.

Suggest a Destination

Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!