Konark Sun Temple
Konark Sun Temple
4.5
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About
The 13th century temple, also known as the Black Pagoda, is a monumental Hindu structure dedicated to the sun God or Surya.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Plan your visit
The area
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
5 within 5 kms
See what travellers are saying
- VinoOneChennai (Madras), India121 contributionsYou can find the exact time - Dedicated to sun godTry to visit either little early in the morning or late evening. It is very sunny in the noon and humid as well. Requires 1 hour to see in detail. Suggest to engage a guide, to get the full details and the way to find the current time from the wheel axle shade.Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten October 15, 2023
- skdel2016National Capital Territory of Delhi, India280 contributionsOne of the outstanding examples of temple architectureThe temple at Konarak, near sea sore of bay of Bengal-On the way to Puri from Bhubaneswar, is a monumental representation of the sun god Surya's chariot; its 24 wheels are decorated with symbolic designs and it is led by a team of six horses. Built in the 13th century, it is one of India's most famous Brahman sanctuaries. One of the outstanding examples of temple architecture and art as revealed in its conception, scale and proportion, and in the sublime narrative strength of its sculptural embellishment, famous for its Chariot wheel- representing timings of human behaviour and many more..... A must place to visit and hope it could be preserved more in scientific way. Don't forget to take a guide which is available at nominal cost otherwise it will be just a monument... Enjoy..Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten December 18, 2023
- macedonboyGlasgow, United Kingdom186,371 contributionsAwesome Archaeology & TempleThe Konark Sun Temple is a 13th century temple complex dedicated to the Hindu sun god, Surya. The main temple in the complex is immense and has the appearance of a chariot being drawn by seven horses. Sadly, only a few of the horses remain and only a couple are largely intact. The chariot was depicted as being carried on 24 wheels, each with a diameter of three metres. Like the facade of the temple, the wheels are also richly decorated. The absolute standout features of the temple are the reliefs on the walls. Both religious and secular themes are represented in sculptures. Some motifs do occur repeatedly such as flautists, dancers and erotic sculpture of graphic level of intimacy. Major Hindu deities of Shiva, Vishnu, Durga and Ganesh are all represented. The only downside is that the place is incredibly busy. I visited from Bhubaneswar and arrived mid morning. I did manage to get about 2 hours of visit which was a good amount, but it would probably have been better to visit mid afternoon in cooler temperatures and it would also have been less crowded. I also recommend visiting the Konark Temple Museum beforehand as it gives a lot of insight into the historical and architectural context.Visited February 2024Travelled with friendsWritten February 29, 2024
- PANDEY JIVaranasi, India1,992 contributionsBeautiful Temple!!A landmark of Bharatiya ingenuity. This 700 old temple represents what the level of science, technology, fashion, culture was 700 years ago. A temple dedicated to Sun God. The main sanctum Santorum was destroyed by the British. Two giant magnets were placed at opposite endsthe top which helped the Idol of Lord Surya in a float. The two giant magnets interfered with the British navy navigation instruments, they destroyed the magnets and Sanctum Santorum which eventually interfered with the magnetic field around the temple causing other structures to fall. The intricate carvings and sun clock will blow your mind and the same time invoke a sense of pride.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 26, 2024
- Rajesh WBengaluru, India36 contributionsBeautiful architecture only if you study and visit.as you all know Konark is 30 Km from Puri and 60Km from Bhubaneshwar. very beautiful fallen architecture and a UNESCO World heritage site . you wont find anything else here except Chandrabhaga beach and Sun Temple. as the name suggests, it is not a temple and is only a view point. Inside the temple premises there is an arts gallery run by Indian Oil, please do visit this before Sun temple to understand the significance of the architecture. you have drinking water available behind the main temple, tip: the old style hand pump water is very good to drink and it tasted sweet. and they also have good washrooms. I came from Hyderabad and did not find good place to eat. my cab driver took us to one hotel called Okaasan Restaurant which was not good for vegetarians.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten April 13, 2024
- Sur15 contributionsMystical archaeological marvelDuring my visit to this divine place I realised that the location of the Konark Sun Temple adds to its mystique and allure. Situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, the temple is surrounded by natural beauty, with the sound of the waves providing a serene backdrop to the majestic structure. The temple's strategic location also aligns with the sun's movements, with its main entrance facing east to greet the rising sun. The temple complex is divided into three main parts: the natamandira (dancing hall), the jagamohana (assembly hall), and the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The garbhagriha once housed a colossal image of Surya, which is now in ruins, but the remnants still evoke a sense of awe and reverence.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten May 17, 2024
- Trekker AnshumanIndia9 contributionsKonark Sun Temple: A Historic MarvelI visited the Konark temple 1 year ago. It was a historic marvel. You will get to know about many things regarding the Odisha's history. Note avoid visiting after 12 PM because it is crowded. Make sure you visit on sunny days, You will get to know an interesting fact about time with the wheels. Must visit Konark.Visited July 2023Travelled soloWritten June 6, 2024
- SWLNNew Delhi, India490 contributionsRich historyWhat an amazing architecture. So much of intricacies and human life cycle in a temple. All the epics and hindu values depicted in the form of sculptures is magnificent. It should definitely be visited to understand our history.so much of science, mythical stories, artistic , creativity..we had got a guard to explain the history for 400 Rs and he was good. We also hired a photographer to help us with some beautiful pictures and memories. We couldn't manage to see the light show as we had other plans. Thank you team for taking care of our heritage. The entrance ticket is for Rs.40 and the parking is far away. So either walk down or qvwil w shared auto service.Visited August 2024Travelled with friendsWritten August 10, 2024
- SBJANAHyderabad, India172 contributionsMarvelous Architectural Wonder, Must Visit !!Whether you are a historian, you love exploring places, or you are a professor or teacher, or you work for tourism industry; moreover you love architectures and exploring ancient places then this must be in your bucket list. Konark Sun temple doesnt have any deity to offer puja, it is the structure which makes tourists to visit to explore. There are stories associated with building of this temple and how it was partially destroyed by invaders. Now a days Govt. is trying to preserve the history by conserving it through further constructions (which was evident during my visit). Photography is widely allowed, you must seize the opportunity to click some of the beautiful moments in the garden or in front of the Sun wheels, which are most popular. It wonders how in ancient time the architects can create such marvelous designs without even having the modern tools or a degree. Only when you visit you can witness the work, very neatly curved on the wall. There is an entry fee ofcourse, we booked through our guide from ODTC, and it was affordable. The destination has separate entry and exit for better crowd control. You can buy some souvenirs for your family or loved ones from this place.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten August 20, 2024
- Sajan G EdacherilPala, India1,492 contributionsMarvelous 13 th century architecture**Sun Temple – Konark: A Timeless Marvel of Ancient India** The Sun Temple in Konark is a breathtaking monument and a must-visit for anyone interested in India's rich architectural heritage. Built in the 13th century and dedicated to the Sun God, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an incredible example of ancient Indian craftsmanship and artistic genius. The temple is designed in the shape of a massive chariot with intricately carved stone wheels, horses, and panels depicting mythological stories, daily life, and celestial beings. Every corner of the temple speaks of fine artistry, with sculptures and carvings so detailed and elaborate that they leave visitors in awe. The 24 stone wheels of the chariot, representing hours of the day, and the architectural alignment with the sun's rays add a layer of astronomical significance. Despite being partially in ruins, the grandeur of the temple still shines through. The atmosphere around the temple is serene, and the nearby greenery adds to the experience. Guides are available to offer historical insights, which are highly recommended to fully appreciate the rich symbolism and history behind the structure. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a traveler looking for a unique experience, the Sun Temple at Konark is a timeless marvel that shouldn't be missed. It’s a journey into India’s glorious past!Visited September 2024Travelled with familyWritten September 17, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,260 reviews
Excellent
899
Very good
304
Average
48
Poor
6
Terrible
3
NKR2013A
Mumbai, India161 contributions
Nov 2021
A must see place when in Odisha. Lots of history behind the temple, so please take a guide who will explain about the temple and the carvings. The guide would give you a tour for about 2 hours, suggest negotiate and take it for a longer time in case you wish to know more about this temple.
There is also a museum near the ticketing counter, worth seeing it for more explanations about the carvings.
Since it a ruin, no limits on taking photographs. The local photographers could be of help to suggest and take pictures from strategic places, you could hire them (but fix the price in advance, else.......).
There is also a museum near the ticketing counter, worth seeing it for more explanations about the carvings.
Since it a ruin, no limits on taking photographs. The local photographers could be of help to suggest and take pictures from strategic places, you could hire them (but fix the price in advance, else.......).
Written December 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sanjay J
Kota, India381 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
It is the must place to go once in life time. Konark temple signifies the Indian culture & it's importance in life. We go in very crowded time in December. Take guide to know about the temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord sun. The architecture wonder of odhisa, the world UNESCO site. This temple also show how time change in a day.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
disha m
39 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
The architecture of this place is amazing and it is required to take a guide to explain the same.
The entry fee is very reasonable at ₹40 per person and for the Guide it was ₹350. The guide explained all the things very nicely. There is nice and clean beach “the Chandrabhaga Beach” that is also highly recommended. The roadside vada chat is also a must try outside the temple.
Must visit place if you visit Puri or Bhubaneswar.
The entry fee is very reasonable at ₹40 per person and for the Guide it was ₹350. The guide explained all the things very nicely. There is nice and clean beach “the Chandrabhaga Beach” that is also highly recommended. The roadside vada chat is also a must try outside the temple.
Must visit place if you visit Puri or Bhubaneswar.
Written February 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mihir B
Bhubaneswar, India123 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Dedicated to the Sun God this Hindu temple earlier known as Black Pagoda is monumental heritage of 13th century. To understand this beutiful seven horses drawn, twelve whelled monument predicting exact time a guide is a must. Intrisic art on sandstone are similar to the Khajuraho temple depicting life of Hindu & Hinduism
Neat & clean with enough parking & otther public amenities.
Neat & clean with enough parking & otther public amenities.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Enrique
Pune, India779 contributions
Feb 2023
The pillared dance hall has amazing sculptures bringing to life people of 13th century Konark, spend time here. The magnificent chariot wheels on the platform are surrounded by a plethora of dieties, royalty, mythical creatures and animals. Three images of Surya on the viman are majestic, and its intricately detailed chlorite doorway. Its famous navgarh lintel of the planets is in a mandir on the way out. Remove your shoes and take photos if you like, just don't acknowledge any pandas ;) Also, take in the huge carved figures in the grounds around the complex.
The massive temple is set in a large enclosure. Therse's enough space to take in everything at leisure even in the crowd. We visited twice. Getting in by 9am is probably best. By then the early crowds worshipping the rising sun are gone. Tourist buses arrive by about 11am and continue until sunset. The temple is lit up for a brief period at closing time and that is a beautiful sight.
Entrance is by tokens from the ticket booth and did not take time. The Sound and Light Show is only for die-hard Amar Chitra Katha fans, avoid. Hire an ASI approved card-carrying guide, charges are standard, and he does give a historical background and also point out details in the structure. He will also show you the spots for the best selfies!
The massive temple is set in a large enclosure. Therse's enough space to take in everything at leisure even in the crowd. We visited twice. Getting in by 9am is probably best. By then the early crowds worshipping the rising sun are gone. Tourist buses arrive by about 11am and continue until sunset. The temple is lit up for a brief period at closing time and that is a beautiful sight.
Entrance is by tokens from the ticket booth and did not take time. The Sound and Light Show is only for die-hard Amar Chitra Katha fans, avoid. Hire an ASI approved card-carrying guide, charges are standard, and he does give a historical background and also point out details in the structure. He will also show you the spots for the best selfies!
Written March 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mamchatt08
4 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
Please go in the early morning so that you can spend sometime without catching much heat. Spend some time seeing the beautiful architecture and the engraving of the temple. It is worth seeing an age old articture and it's marvel
Written June 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pratush
New Delhi, India373 contributions
Jun 2022
Once you reach the gate of the temple you;ll find guide which charges around INR 500/- to show around the site.
Pro-Tip: Tell the guide immediately upon hiring to buy tickets for you for evening sound & light show as 7PM show is usually taken up by travel agents and you'll end up buying tickets for 8PM which can be quite late for some folks.
Sound & light Show: Though you'll love it but due to low maintenance of Walkman's, Headphones it can ruin your experience. If you're going during monsoon do apply mosquito repellent as place is full of mosquitos in evening.
And enjoy the art literature, hard-work it went to make this temple also do visit the India Oil created replica of this temple and their movie as well.
Pro-Tip: Tell the guide immediately upon hiring to buy tickets for you for evening sound & light show as 7PM show is usually taken up by travel agents and you'll end up buying tickets for 8PM which can be quite late for some folks.
Sound & light Show: Though you'll love it but due to low maintenance of Walkman's, Headphones it can ruin your experience. If you're going during monsoon do apply mosquito repellent as place is full of mosquitos in evening.
And enjoy the art literature, hard-work it went to make this temple also do visit the India Oil created replica of this temple and their movie as well.
Written August 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bhavik Mody
Jodhpur, India210 contributions
Dec 2019
The Sun Temple of Konark is one of those Ancient Indian Structures that can easily give any of the ancient wonders of the world a run for their money. It is a temple shaped and constructed in form of the Sun God's Chariot. The sheer size and magnanimity of this temple makes it very special. Although entry inside the temple is restricted but the architecture and sculpture art can be viewed and enjoyed by moving around the temple. The special features of the temple are very unique and can make one wonder about the profound knowledge of architecture, astronomy, weather and science of the people of ancient India.
The Light and Sound show which depicts the history of this temple and its significance in Indian culture is very informative and detailed making it an entertaining and learning experience.
A must visit place for all tourists.
The Light and Sound show which depicts the history of this temple and its significance in Indian culture is very informative and detailed making it an entertaining and learning experience.
A must visit place for all tourists.
Written July 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
nyusual
Bengaluru, India426 contributions
May 2022
It is a treat for the eyes. Feast on its rich history and beautiful carvings with nothing to compare with. Engage a guide, very important to get a feeling of the place and to imagine how the horses would look for the large sun chariot. Some of the carvings are a must to see if you are an ally to the minority communities. Each wheel of the chariot has a story. Enjoy the history and close your eyes to feel the magnanimity of the experience. So many sculptures, each with a backstory. You can see a man with an umbrella even before it was invented. Remember it is post COVID, so please do not forget to engage the photographer, it may not cost you more than 100 for two pictures (you can collect the digital copy if you dont want the prints).
Written May 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pooja A
5 contributions
Feb 2020
I was very reluctant to hire a guide, but taking one was a good decision I made.
He explained so well about each of the sculptures the history of the temple.
the only sad part is the new stones replaced do not do any justice to the carvings of the temple.
This really needs to be looked by the Archaeological department.
He explained so well about each of the sculptures the history of the temple.
the only sad part is the new stones replaced do not do any justice to the carvings of the temple.
This really needs to be looked by the Archaeological department.
Written February 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
When is the last public/local bus available from Konark to Puri ? is there a bus from Konark after the Light show of Konark temple?
Written July 17, 2024
Can non Hindus allowed to enter Konark Sun temple
Written June 26, 2024
Can I visit the temple in the evening, even if i don't have tickets for the light and sound show?
Written November 28, 2023
When the light show starts after the visitors vacate the premises. It becomes completely dark, and lights get turned off for the show. Try going before it get really dark so that you could see the temple in day light and also when the lights get turned on after it gets dark.
Written November 28, 2023
English and Hindi. they are in two different channels on wireless headsets. Hindi seemed to be better than the English.
Written October 27, 2023
Which busbring me to sand musismfrompuri jagannath mandir?
Written September 14, 2023
one can find local bus service which takes you to different tourist spot around Puri. where to find that?
Written March 21, 2023
Best thing to do is to hire a cab at bhubaneswar for 2 days
You can cover Lingraj temple, Konark temple, Jagannath Puri Temple, the beaches and if time permits the safari.
Written April 28, 2023
yes u can. but then it is too hectic to be done. too much of walk and ups and downs. eventually u will have to leave it somewhere or the other.
Written March 24, 2023
What are COVID protocols @ konark sun temple? I m plaaning to visit After 15th June 2022
Written May 18, 2022
What are covid protocols @ konark sun temple? I m plaaning to visit After 15th June 2022
Written May 18, 2022
Rajesh Gaonkar
Ponda, India
I am from Goa. Wanted to visit konark temple & Puri Jagannath temple with family 2+2. What should be trip duration. Which places near by we can cover? Please guide me 🙏.
Written December 28, 2021
Your trip should be half day each at Konark and Puri sightseeing. Jaganath temple will be another half day plues beach in the evening. You should spend a day in Bhubaneshwar to see Lingraj temple and the many museums which are all very nice. I suggest a max of 5 days
Written January 1, 2022
…
Showing results 1-10 of 38
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing