Things to do in Konark

Activities, attractions and tours

10 March, 2024, Sun Temple, Konark, Orissa India, Ruins of 800 year old temple dedicated to Sun. Designed as a chariot consisting of 24 wheels which are sundials to measure movement of sun and planets
10 March, 2024, Sun Temple, Konark, Orissa India, Ruins of 800 year old temple dedicated to Sun. Designed as a chariot consisting of 24 wheels which are sundials to measure movement of sun and planets
10 March, 2024, Sun Temple, Konark, Orissa India, Ruins of 800 year old temple dedicated to Sun. Designed as a chariot consisting of 24 wheels which are sundials to measure movement of sun and planets
Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa, India. It is believed that the temple was built by king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty in 1255 CE. The temple complex is in the shape of a gigantic chariot, having elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars and walls. A major part of the structure is now in ruins. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has also featured on various list of Seven Wonders of India. The temple is 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar. The name Konark derives from the combination of the Sanskrit words, Kona (corner or angle) and Ark (the sun), in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun God Surya.
Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa, India. It is believed that the temple was built by king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty[2] in 1255 CE.[3] The temple complex is in the shape of a gigantic chariot, having elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars and walls. A major part of the structure is now in ruins. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site[4] and has also featured on various list of Seven Wonders of India. The temple is 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar. The name Konark derives from the combination of the Sanskrit words, Kona (corner or angle) and Ark (the sun), in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun God Surya.[4] The monument was also called the Black Pagoda'(Kaala Pagoda) by the European sailors. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the White Pagoda. Both temples served as important landmarks for the sailors.[5] Konark Sun Temple used Iron beams for its structure. The temple was originally built at the mouth of the river Chandrabhaga, but the waterline has receded since then. The temple has been built in the form of a giant ornamented chariot of the Sun god, Surya. It has twelve pairs of elaborately carved stone wheels which are 3 meters[4] wide and is pulled by a set of seven horses (4 on the right and 3 on the left).[6] The temple follows the traditional style of Kalinga architecture. It is carefully oriented towards the east so that the first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance.[4] The temple is built from Khondalite rocks.[7][8] The original temple had a main sanctum sanctorum (vimana), which was supposedly 229 feet[6] (70 m) tall. Due to the weight of the superstructure (70 m tall) and weak soil of the area, the main vimana fell in 1837.[9] The audience hall (Jagamohana), which is about 128 feet (39 m) tall, still stands and is the principal structure in the surviving ruins. Among the structures, which have survived to the current day, are the dance hall (Nata mandira) and dining hall (Bhoga mandapa).[4][6] The Konark temple is also known for its erotic sculptures of maithunas.[10] Two smaller ruined temples have been discovered nearby. One of them is called the Mayadevi Temple and is located southwest from the entrance of the main temple. It is presumed to have been dedicated to Mayadevi, one of the Sun god's wives. It has been dated to the late 11th century, earlier than the main temple.[11] The other one belongs to some unknown Vaishnava deity. Sculptures of Balarama, Varaha and Trivikrama have been found at the site, indicating it to be a Vaishnavite temple. Both temples have their primary idols missing. A collection of fallen sculptures can be viewed at the Konark Archaeological Museum which is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
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What to do in Konark

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Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa, India. It is believed that the temple was built by king Narasimhadeva I of Eastern Ganga Dynasty[2] in 1255 CE.[3] The temple complex is in the shape of a gigantic chariot, having elaborately carved stone wheels, pillars and walls. A major part of the structure is now in ruins. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site[4] and has also featured on various list of Seven Wonders of India. The temple is 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar. The name Konark derives from the combination of the Sanskrit words, Kona (corner or angle) and Ark (the sun), in reference to the temple which was dedicated to the Sun God Surya.[4] The monument was also called the Black Pagoda'(Kaala Pagoda) by the European sailors. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the White Pagoda. Both temples served as important landmarks for the sailors.[5] Konark Sun Temple used Iron beams for its structure. The temple was originally built at the mouth of the river Chandrabhaga, but the waterline has receded since then. The temple has been built in the form of a giant ornamented chariot of the Sun god, Surya. It has twelve pairs of elaborately carved stone wheels which are 3 meters[4] wide and is pulled by a set of seven horses (4 on the right and 3 on the left).[6] The temple follows the traditional style of Kalinga architecture. It is carefully oriented towards the east so that the first rays of sunrise strikes the principal entrance.[4] The temple is built from Khondalite rocks.[7][8] The original temple had a main sanctum sanctorum (vimana), which was supposedly 229 feet[6] (70 m) tall. Due to the weight of the superstructure (70 m tall) and weak soil of the area, the main vimana fell in 1837.[9] The audience hall (Jagamohana), which is about 128 feet (39 m) tall, still stands and is the principal structure in the surviving ruins. Among the structures, which have survived to the current day, are the dance hall (Nata mandira) and dining hall

Konark Sun Temple

After visiting Konark Sun Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Gop. Take in the festivals and sunrises in the area.

Konark Sun Temple

Frequently asked questions

Is Konark worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor activities, there are plenty of fun things to do in Konark. Be sure to enjoy the area's mix of unmissable attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Konark?
After you've visited top attractions like Konark Beach and Ramchandi Beach, spend the rest of your day exploring Konark's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Konark?
Konark Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Konark and deserves a spot on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Konark?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off popular city sights, including Konark Beach, Ramchandi Beach and Konark Sun Temple. The average stay in Konark is two days. If you have the time to extend your break, Puri isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Konark with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Browse our ideas for what to do in Konark with kids.

What to do in Konark for adults?
From local cuisine and cultural hotspots to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there's no shortage of great things to do in Konark for adults.
Are there free things to do in Konark?
One of the best ways to find free things to do in Konark is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Konark Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.