Built in the 13th century A.D, it is a magnificent showpiece of Orissan architecture and sculpture that today has become a world heritage monument. Its architecture speaks glowingly of the golden age of Orissan art.

Its major attractions are

Mukhashala, or entrance hall

Walls that displays exquisite sculptures depicting the varied facets of life and scenes of love and war, mythical figures, etc,

Surasundaris, heavenly damsels, freestanding, larger-than-life monoblock female statues playing the cymbals, drums, flutes or trumpets that adorn the top of the temple.

Magnificently carved figures of war elephants holding aloft a dazed soldier, the lions guarding the entrance to the temple AND the enraged war-horses trampling under their hooves a fallen warrior – (this one is the emblem of the State and a fitting testimony of Orissa's war time glory).

Twenty four giant wheels of the temple chariot, symbolizing the divisions of time with their intricate carvings on the spokes and the axle- heads, the seven caparisoned horses representing seven colours of the Sun AND the Nabagraha or Nine-planet panel that are living pieces of Orissa's past glory.

Its most stunning attraction is the breathtaking spectacle of the Sun God rising from the lap of the blue ocean close by to cast its first gentle rays on the sanctum sanctorum. After which the sun circles the temple during the course of the day, illuminating the three magnificent images of the Morning Sun, the Mid- day Sun and the Setting Sun.

Located a little distance from the exquisite Sun Temple of Konark, it is a magnificent beach that is much quieter than Puri beach. Its spectacular sunrise and sunset events is memorable and worth watching.

Its long stretches of clean sands, rolling waves and caesarian forests makes this delightful beach one of the best in the eastern coast that plays host to millions of tourists every year.

Held from 1st to 5th December every year, the festival highlights the brilliant composite culture of India. A breathtaking spectacle that showcases some of the most exciting dance events of the country AND highlights the brilliant composite culture of India

When illuminated in the evenings, the majestic temple’s backdrop looks stunning. Another fascinating factor is the Museum run by Archaeological Survey of India that has a fine collection of sculptures from the temple ruins. Entry: Free, Friday closed.