Some places in India don’t just hold history—they breathe it. They resonate with more than stone and time; they hum with cosmic rhythm and quiet awe. The Konark Sun Temple is one such place. Located on the serene eastern coast of Odisha, this 13th-century wonder pulls in curious travelers, devoted pilgrims, and camera-clutching storytellers with an invisible magnetic thread.
But before you find yourself marveling at its massive, sun-chasing chariot carved from stone, a practical question needs answering: How do you actually get there without any hassle? Whether you’re mapping a spiritual pilgrimage, a weekend escape, or a full-blown cultural immersion, this guide walks you through how to reach Konark in the smoothest, most scenic way possible.
Where is Konark Sun temple and Why Should You visit?
Konark is situated around 35 km from the coastal town of Puri and about 65 km from state capital, Bhubaneswar. Out of three cities Konark, Puri, and Bhubaneswar, yet Konark stands apart. It doesn’t feel like a temple as much as it feels like time frozen for us to witness. There are no priests, no daily rituals, just our rich history which we get to re visit.
How to Reach Konark?
1. By Air
The closest airport is the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar. It’s well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
From the Airport to Konark:
A taxi or rental car will get you to Konark in roughly 90 minutes to 2 hours. For a local flavor, head to Bhubaneswar’s central bus station via auto or prepaid cab, and hop on a bus toward Konark.
2. By Train
Konark doesn’t have its own train station. The nearest train station is Puri Station (35 km away): Ideal if you’re also planning to visit the iconic Jagannath Temple.
Bhubaneswar Station (65 km away): Offers broader connectivity and smoother roads to Konark.
Note: Bhubaneswar tends to be faster and more comfortable for onward road journeys.
3. By Road
Whether you’re behind the wheel or riding shotgun, the drive to Konark is an experience to witness itself.
From Bhubaneswar: Take NH 316 via Pipli. Expect around 1.5 hours of smooth cruising.
From Puri: The scenic Marine Drive Road will steal your breath. Think tree tunnels, peeks of the sea, and occasional temple ruins along the way for about 45 minutes of blissful driving.
Budget Travelers:
Odisha State Road Transport (OSRTC) buses run regularly between Puri and Konark.
Shared autos and pooled taxis are easy to find in both cities.
When to Go: Seasons, Sunlight & Surprises
Getting there is just half the story. To truly feel Konark, you need to time it right.
Best Season to Visit Konark Sun temple:
October to March: Ideal weather, lively festivals, and cool breezes. The temple’s carvings catch the soft winter light just perfectly.
April to June: Hot and intense. If you must go, aim for early morning or just before sunset.
July to September: Monsoon magic meets slippery stones. The lush backdrop is beautiful, but the rains can be relentless.
Best Time of Day:
Sunrise & Sunset: The golden hour bathes the chariot-like temple in liquid light. A must for photographers and dreamers.
Mid-morning: Great for casual exploration and guided tours.
Evening: Quiet, atmospheric, and often lit up during festivals.
Tips Only Locals Might Tell You
- Hire a Real Guide There’s more to Konark than what meets the eye. Alignments, hidden stories, astronomical genius—you’ll miss it without someone who knows. Look for guides endorsed by Odisha Tourism.
- Dress Light, Travel Light The stone absorbs heat. Carry a bottle of water, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself.
- Stay Curious Beyond the Temple Check out the Konark Museum—it’s filled with sculptures that were recovered from the site. Konark Beach is also worth a stop, especially at dawn.
- Time It with the Dance Festival Every December, classical dancers from across the country perform on a stage with the temple as a glowing backdrop. The Konark Dance Festival is a bucket-list experience.
- Sleep in Nearby Cities Konark doesn’t have many places to stay. Most travelers opt for hotels in Puri or Bhubaneswar and do a day trip. Still, if you crave quiet, some eco-resorts and beach cottages around Konark offer peaceful stays.
Mapping the Golden Triangle: Bhubaneswar, Puri & Konark
Bhubaneswar: The temple city. Don’t miss Lingaraj Temple and Mukteshwar Temple.
Puri: Spiritual energy runs high here. Lord Jagannath reigns supreme.
Konark: The cosmic chariot. A temple with no idol, yet brimming with divine presence.
Traveling through these three isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey into India’s soul, told through art, devotion, and light.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Monument
Konark isn’t a quick stop. It’s a place that unfolds slowly—through silence, shadows, and sun. Reaching it may take some planning, but what you’ll find there is worth every mile. Let this guide be more than directions—let it be your invitation to pause, to look closer, and to feel deeper.
Because sometimes, the journey to a temple is also the journey within.
