A 13th-century temple built in the shape of a colossal stone chariot, its wheels and horses carved in extraordinary detail — no longer an active place of worship, so shooting here is more open than most temple sites on this platform.
Konark Sun Temple was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, designed as a giant chariot for the sun god Surya — 24 elaborately carved stone wheels line its base, with a team of horses at the front, all rendered in astonishing sculptural detail. Sometimes called the "Black Pagoda" for its dark stone facade, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most architecturally distinctive monuments in India.
A key practical difference from other temples on this platform: Konark is no longer an active place of worship in daily use, which means the interior-sanctum restrictions common at working temples largely don't apply here — this is treated more like a heritage monument than a religious site in terms of visitor and photography access.
An evening Light & Sound show runs separately from daytime entry, illuminating the temple after dark. Early morning (6-8am) is specifically recommended for photography, both for softer light and smaller crowds — the site sees heavy tour-bus traffic by mid-morning.
Nearest airport
Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar — 65.0 km
Parking
Designated visitor parking available near the main entrance (paid).
Full address
Konark, Puri district, Odisha 752111
Entry timings
6:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily; Light & Sound show runs separately in the evening
Open days
Monday–Sunday
Closed on
None — open all days
Drone policy
Drone use is strictly prohibited at Konark given the site's historical sensitivity as a UNESCO monument — this is firmly enforced, not a grey area.
Permission requirements
Permission is required for shoots at this location. See the process below.
Permission process
Handheld cameras and DSLRs are covered by standard entry. Tripods and gimbals require a specific permit and additional fee, arranged at the entrance with the ASI staff on site.
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