Konark Sea Beach – Odisha’s First Blue Flag Beach and a Hidden Coastal Paradise

Where golden sands meet the rhythmic waves of the Bay of Bengal, Konark Sea Beach (also known as Chandrabhaga Beach) stands as one of the most peaceful and scenic tourist attractions in Odisha. Just a few kilometers from the world-famous Konark Sun Temple, this beach offers a perfect blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and coastal charm. Whether you’re here for sunrise photography, a quiet seaside walk, or to witness Odisha’s cultural heritage, Konark Sea Beach promises a refreshing escape. It’s not just a beach—it’s an experience of nature’s calm and divine energy.

Where Is Konark Sea Beach? (with GPS Coordinates)

Konark Sea Beach is located on the eastern coast of Odisha, about 3 km from Konark town and the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple. It lies along the Puri–Konark Marine Drive Road, around 35 km from Puri and 65 km from Bhubaneswar.

GPS Coordinates: 19.8950° N, 86.0967° E

This stretch of coastline is famous for its clean surroundings and spiritual ambiance. It is one of the places to visit in Odisha that combines heritage and nature—making it a must-stop for travelers exploring the Konark–Puri–Bhubaneswar triangle.

Mythological & Historical Significance

According to ancient legends, the Chandrabhaga River once flowed near this beach and was considered sacred. The name “Chandrabhaga” comes from a myth about Chandrabhaga, the daughter of the sage Samudra. She was pursued by Surya, the Sun God, but to protect her chastity, she sacrificed herself in the river near Konark. Moved by her devotion, the Sun God blessed the site, turning it into a place of purity and spiritual strength.

Historically, Konark Sea Beach was a vital port area and a resting point for pilgrims visiting the Konark Sun Temple. Sailors used the shining temple tower as a navigational landmark from the sea. Today, the beach remains a symbol of devotion and beauty, attracting both spiritual seekers and leisure travelers.

What You’ll See & Do at Konark Sea Beach

Konark Sea Beach is ideal for morning walks, sunrise photography, meditation, and relaxation. The sight of the first rays of the sun reflecting on the waves feels magical, especially against the backdrop of Konark’s sacred energy.

You can watch local fishermen pulling in their nets, enjoy camel or horse rides, or simply soak your feet in the cool surf. During the Magha Saptami Mela (usually in February), thousands of pilgrims take a holy dip at the beach before visiting the Sun Temple—it’s a grand cultural experience filled with rituals and chants.

Eco huts, benches, and food stalls along the beach now cater to tourists looking for a comfortable stay or a quick bite. For adventure seekers, occasional beach clean-up drives and cycling tours are also organized along the marine drive stretch.

How to Reach Konark Sea Beach

By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 65 km away. You can hire a taxi or join a tourist coach to reach Konark.

By Train: The nearest major railway stations are Puri (35 km) and Bhubaneswar (65 km), both well-connected to India’s main cities.

By Road: Konark is easily accessible via the Puri–Konark Marine Drive, one of the most scenic routes in Odisha. Regular buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws operate between Bhubaneswar, Puri, and Konark.

Many visitors prefer to cover Konark Sun Temple and the beach on the same day, making it a perfect short trip among tour places in Odisha.

Nearby Places to Visit

Here are some must-visit attractions near Konark Sea Beach:

• Konark Sun Temple (3 km) – A UNESCO Heritage site and one of India’s grandest temples.

•Ramachandi Beach & Temple (8 km) – A quiet beach dedicated to Goddess Ramachandi, at the mouth of the Kushabhadra River.

•Raghurajpur Heritage Village (25 km) – Famous for traditional Pattachitra paintings and crafts.

•Jagannath Temple, Puri (35 km) – One of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

•Chilika Lake (65 km) – Asia’s largest brackish lagoon and a paradise for bird lovers.

These nearby gems make Konark an ideal base for exploring the best tourist attractions in Odisha.

Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips

The best time to visit Konark Sea Beach is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The sky is clear, making it perfect for beach walks and photography.

Avoid the monsoon months (July–September) as the sea can get rough, and swimming is unsafe. Summers (April–June) are hot and humid, though early mornings can still be enjoyable.

Travel Tips:

•Visit at sunrise for the most beautiful views.

•Carry sunscreen, hats, and drinking water.

•Respect local traditions, especially during religious events.

•Avoid swimming in deep waters due to strong currents.

•If traveling with family, stay near the main Konark area for safety and convenience.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Bhubaneswar → Drive to Konark → Visit the Sun Temple → Spend the evening at Konark Sea Beach → Stay overnight at a nearby resort.

Day 2: Watch the sunrise → Visit Ramachandi Temple → Drive along the marine road to Puri → Visit Jagannath Temple and Puri Beach → Return to Bhubaneswar.

This itinerary offers a mix of spirituality, art, and nature—perfect for those exploring tour places in Odisha in a short span.

FAQ – Konark Sea Beach (Chandrabhaga), Odisha

1) Is Konark Sea Beach the same as Chandrabhaga Beach?

Yes. Chandrabhaga Beach lies about 3 km east of the Konark Sun Temple and is commonly called Konark Sea Beach.

2) Why is this beach famous?

It was India’s first Blue Flag–certified beach (2018), recognised for cleanliness, safety and eco-amenities.

3) What are the exact coordinates?

Approx. 19.8950° N, 86.0967° E (Konark/Chandrabhaga coastal area).

4) What are the usual timings and entry fee?

Odisha Tourism lists 5:00 AM–10:00 PM and free entry for Chandrabhaga Beach.

5) Is it safe to swim here?

Exercise caution—strong currents are reported at times; local advisories often discourage deep bathing. Recent news also notes drowning incidents during high tides/full moon.

6) What’s the best time to visit in the year?

October–March for pleasant weather; avoid peak monsoon due to rough seas.

7) What’s special about sunrise here?

The beach is famed for spectacular sunrises on the Bay of Bengal—many visitors arrive early morning specifically for this.

8) Which major festival happens on this beach?

Magha Saptami Mela (Ratha Saptami): lakhs take a pre-dawn holy dip at Chandrabhaga Tirtha before visiting Konark Sun Temple.

9) How far is it from Konark Sun Temple, Puri and Bhubaneswar?

~3 km from the Sun Temple; ~35 km to Puri; ~65 km to Bhubaneswar by road.

10) Are there facilities (parking, basic amenities)?

Yes—parking available, free entry; broader amenities are centered around the Konark/Puri tourism belt.

11) Any official page for quick essentials?

Yes—Odisha Tourism’s Chandrabhaga Beach page lists timings, fees and quick tips.

12) Are guides or tours available?

You can book Konark + Puri day tours from Bhubaneswar/Puri; local operators and platforms list regular options.

13) Is there anything unique beyond the beach?

Nearby are the Konark Sun Temple, Ramachandi Beach/Temple, and the scenic Puri–Konark Marine Drive—all popular tourist attractions in Odisha.

14) Any cultural/legend links to the spot?

Local tradition ties Chandrabhaga to Sun-worship (Samba/Surya legends); the beach is part of the Konark sacred landscape.

Conclusion

Konark Sea Beach is where Odisha’s divine past meets the calm rhythm of the present. With its clean sands, mythological roots, and cultural festivals, it remains one of the most captivating tourist attractions in Odisha. Whether you’re tracing the path of the morning sun or relaxing under the coastal breeze, this beach offers a soulful escape that beautifully complements the grandeur of the Konark Sun Temple.

So, if you’re planning your next coastal getaway, let Konark Sea Beach be your sunrise destination — where serenity, heritage, and nature come together in perfect harmony.