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Places of Interest in Konark

Konark Beach
The beach, 3 kms away from the temple along the Puri road, is very picturesque and you can get the glimpses of the local fishing fleet at work. The sunrise at this beach is a feast for the eyes. Also an ideal site for a spot of sun-bathing.

The Museum Of Archaeological Survey Of India
The museum which is just outside the temple enclosure, houses sculptures and carvings from the ruins of the Sun Temple. The stone architrave inside it, bearing images of nine planet dieties, the Navagrahas, originally sat above one of the temple's ornamental doorways, and is now kept as a living shrine.

Balighai Beach
A a secluded silver stretch, girdled by casuarina forests.

Kuruma
Approachable by jeeps, Kuruma, a site of Buddhist archaeological discoveries, is only 8 kms from Konark. Recent excavations have thrust this little village into the limelight with the discovery of antique images of the Buddha seated in Bhumisparsa Mudra alongwith the image of Heruka.

Chaurasi
Chaurasi is the site of the shrines dedicated to Laxminarayanan, Amareshras and Barahi. Barahi is a deity dating back to the 9th century AD, worshipped according to tantrik practices. She is a mother goddess with the face of a boar and is depicted holding a fish in one hand and a cup in another.

Pipli
On the way to Konark is Pipli, famous for its exquisite applique work, which depict the essence of Oriya culture. It is also the home of the most colourful and original awnings, canopies, garden and beach umbrellas, shoulder and hand bags etc. The cocktail effect of the colours is certainly a feast for the eyes.

Ramachandi
A beautiful spot, 7 kms from Konark, Ramachandi is located at the confluence of the river Kusabhadra and the Bay of Bengal. The deity of Konark, Goddess Ramachandi, is worshipped here.

Kakatapur
45 kms from Konark, Kakatapur is located in the Prachi valley and is famous for its shrines of Goddess Mangala and Banadurga. legend has it that the directions for reaching the holy log from which is created Lord Jagannath's icon comes from her. The famous 'Jhamu Yatra' is held in April-May when devotees walk over a narrow trench strewn with embers.

Astranga
A famous fishing harbour, Astranga lies 55 kms from Konark. Washed by the waters of the Bay of Bengal, with its magnificent sunsets, the place really lives upto its name.