Home » Cities in India» Konark

Main Languages	Oriya, Hindi, Bengali, and English
Population	12,681
Area	35.08 sq.kms.

Konark also known as "Arka-Tirtha" is famous for its majestic temple of the Sun God. The word Konark is derived from two word elements - KONA means Corner and ARK meaning the Sun. The temple city of Konark is situated in the eastern state of Orissa at a distance of around 65 kms from Bhubaneswar and 35 kms from Puri.

Attractions In & Around
Astranga: 'Astranga' literally means varied colours and is about 55 kms from Konark and is a famous fishing harbour. Washed by the waters of the Bay of Bengal, with its magnificent sunsets, the place really lives upto its name.

Balighai Beach: It is about 8kms to the east of Puri on the Marine Drive. This casuarina-fringed beach is a famous picnic spot too. One can watch the shy Baliharina deer here. The Sea Turtle Research Centre is another attraction of this beach.

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.

Kakatapur : Kakatapur is 45 kms from Konark, located in the Prachi valley and is famous for its shrines of Goddess Mangala and Banadurga. The famous 'Jhamu Yatra' is held in April-May when devotees walk over a narrow trench strewn with embers.

Konark Beach : The beach is 3 kms away from the temple along the Puri road. Glimpses of the local fishing fleet at work can be seen here. The sunrise at this beach is a feast for the eyes and an ideal spot for sun-bathing.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:
October to March

TEMPERATURE :
Summer – Max: 38 Min: 27.1
Winter – Max: 28.2 Min: 15.2.

CLIMATE :
Being close to the sea, the climate of Konark is never very harsh, but with greenery surrounding the place, rainfall is heavy here.

Getting in, Around & Away
AIR : The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar
RAIL : Bhubaneswar is the nearest railhead, at a distance of 65kms. These two stations are connected to all the major cities in India through long-distance trains.