Grains of Sea Shaped into Breathtaking Art
At Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark, the sands of the golden beach comes alive through the power of creativity and human imagination. What begins as grains shaped by the sea becomes intricate sculptures, powerful messages, and breathtaking works of artistry. The shoreline turns into an open-air gallery where art rises with the tides and creativity leaves a lasting impression.
The International Sand Art Festival is among India’s leading platforms for sand art, bringing together acclaimed sand artists from across the world alongside some of the finest talents from India. Set against the serene coast of Chandrabhaga, the festival celebrates artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and the limitless possibilities of a medium as fleeting as sand.
Festival Summary
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Venue
Chandrabhaga Beach, near Konark, Odisha -
Dates
1st to 5th December
Witness World-Class Creativity Live
The International Sand Art Festival is not just about sculpture, it is an experience. Visitors can walk through the installations under the open sky, interact with artists at work, witness live sculpting sessions, and watch Chandrabhaga Beach come alive with creativity from sunrise to sunset.
The festival offers a rare opportunity to witness world-class art in one of the most dramatic natural settings in India.
Why You Should Visit
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Witness internationally acclaimed sand artists creating monumental sculptures live
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Experience one of India’s foremost festivals dedicated to sand art
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Explore thought-provoking artworks inspired by global and environmental themes
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Enjoy the stunning backdrop of Chandrabhaga Beach and Konark
- Combine your visit with the Konark Dance Festival and nearby heritage attractions
As the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal, the sculptures glow in golden light reminding visitors that even the most temporary art can leave behind a lasting memory.
Glimpses of Sand Art Festival
Where Art Meets Heritage, Discovery Follows
While visiting the International Sand Art Festival at Chandrabhaga, explore some of Odisha’s most iconic coastal and cultural attractions nearby.
Konark Sun Temple
Just minutes away from the festival venue stands the UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the Sun God. Built in the 13th century, the Konark Sun Temple is celebrated for its monumental stone carvings, celestial motifs, and chariot-shaped architecture.
Chandrabhaga Beach
One of Odisha’s most scenic beaches, Chandrabhaga is known for its golden sands, dramatic sunrises, and peaceful coastline. During the festival, the beach transforms into a living art gallery under the open sky.
Puri
A short drive from Konark, Puri offers the spiritual grandeur of the Jagannath Temple alongside bustling beaches, local markets, and traditional Odia cuisine.
Raghurajpur Heritage Village
Known as Odisha’s crafts village, Raghurajpur is home to master artisans practising Pattachitra painting, palm leaf engraving, Gotipua dance, and traditional handicrafts.
What to Try
The Konark–Puri coast offers a rich blend of temple cuisine, coastal flavours, and traditional Odia delicacies.
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Chhena Poda
Odisha’s iconic baked cottage cheese dessert with a caramelised flavour.
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Dalma
A comforting lentil and vegetable preparation flavoured with ginger and panch phoran.
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Khaja
A layered sweet closely associated with the Jagannath Temple traditions.
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Fresh Coastal Seafood
From prawn curries to fried fish, the coastline offers an array of local seafood delicacies.
Shop Souvenirs
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Pipili
Famous for vibrant appliqué craft including lanterns, umbrellas, wall hangings, and decorative textiles.
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Raghurajpur Heritage Village
Purchase authentic Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, wooden toys, and handmade crafts directly from artisan homes.
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Utkalika
Government-run emporium offering authentic Odisha handicrafts, silver filigree, appliqué work, stone carving, and tribal art.
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Boyanika
A Government run emporium known for Sambalpuri sarees, handwoven textiles, tribal jewellery, and curated handloom collections.
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Konark Market
Local stalls and artisan kiosks near Konark offer stone carvings, miniature temple replicas, shell crafts, and handmade souvenirs inspired by Odisha’s artistic heritage.
When & How to Visit
Dates & Details
Best Time to Visit: The International Sand Art Festival is usually held during the Konark Festival season from 1st to 5th December, when the weather along the Odisha coast is pleasant and ideal for outdoor cultural events.
How to Reach
Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar — approximately 65 km from Konark.
Nearest Railway Stations: Puri and Bhubaneswar are the nearest major railheads with good connectivity across India.
Travel Tips & Stay
Travel Tip: Plan a coastal circuit covering Bhubaneswar, Konark, Puri, and Chilika to experience Odisha’s temples, beaches, crafts, cuisine, and cultural festivals in one journey.
Recommended Stay: Visitors can choose from beach resorts, eco-retreat experiences, heritage stays, and OTDC Panthanivas accommodations in and around Konark and Puri. To book log onto – www.bookodisha.com