Konark Dance Festival 2026

The Konark Dance Festival 2026 runs from 1 to 5 December 2026 at the Konark Open Air Auditorium, beside the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha. Presented by Odisha Tourism, the festival brings classical dancers from across India to perform against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is ideal for culture lovers, families and groups touring eastern India.

About the Konark Dance Festival

The Konark Dance Festival has been held at Konark since 1986, according to the official Incredible India listing. Each evening, dancers perform classical Indian styles such as Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi and Manipuri on an open-air stage, with the Sun Temple's carved stonework as a setting. The temple itself, built in the 13th century in the form of a giant chariot for the sun god Surya, is one of India's most important monuments.

The festival period has also traditionally included a crafts fair and other cultural activities in Konark. It is a calm, artistic event rather than a crowded party, and it gives visitors a good introduction to India's classical performing arts.

The Konark Dance Festival 2026 dates and venue

Konark Dance Festival 2026 dates are Tuesday 1 December to Saturday 5 December 2026. Performances are held in the evenings at the Konark Open Air Auditorium, close to the Sun Temple complex.

Odisha Tourism publishes the performer line-up and any ticketing details nearer the time. Check the official listing for the latest programme before you travel.

How to get to Konark for the Konark Dance Festival

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, about 65 km from Konark. Bhubaneswar has domestic connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and other cities, and some international links. From the airport, Konark is reached by road, usually by taxi or private vehicle.

Puri, the temple town 35 km away, is linked to Konark by a scenic coastal road and has a railway station with trains from across India. Check the official entry requirements for India before planning international travel.

Where to stay

Konark has a small number of hotels and guesthouses close to the temple and the beach at Chandrabhaga. Many visitors stay in Puri, which has a much wider range of hotels along the seafront, and travel to Konark each evening. Bhubaneswar is the best base for those who also want to visit the city's many ancient temples.

December is pleasant on the Odisha coast, with dry, mild weather, and it is a popular time for domestic tourism. Book early for festival evenings.

Planning a group trip to the Konark Dance Festival

A group tour to the Konark Dance Festival fits into Odisha's Golden Triangle of Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark. Agencies can combine evenings at the festival with daytime visits to the Sun Temple, the temples of Bhubaneswar and the beach at Puri. Non-Hindu visitors should note that some temples in Odisha restrict entry, so plan respectful alternatives.

• Base groups in Puri or Bhubaneswar and arrange evening transfers.
• Visit the Sun Temple in daylight before the evening performances.
• Check the official listing for ticketing and the performer line-up.
• Pack light layers for cooler evenings outdoors.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Konark Dance Festival 2026?

The Konark Dance Festival 2026 runs from 1 to 5 December 2026 at the Konark Open Air Auditorium, beside the Sun Temple in Odisha. The dates are listed on India's official tourism portal, with Odisha Tourism as the source.

What kind of dance is performed?

The festival focuses on Indian classical dance. Styles usually include Odissi, which comes from Odisha, as well as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi and Manipuri. Performances take place in the evenings on an open-air stage near the Sun Temple.

How do I get to Konark?

Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, about 65 km away, and continue by road. Puri, around 35 km from Konark, has a railway station and is linked by a coastal road.

Where should I stay for the Konark Dance Festival?

Konark has a few hotels near the temple, but Puri offers more choice along the seafront and is a popular base. Bhubaneswar suits visitors who want to explore its temples. Book early, as December is busy.

Is the Sun Temple open during the festival?

The Sun Temple is a protected monument and normally open to visitors during the day. Check current visiting hours and ticket rules with the Archaeological Survey of India or your ground handler before planning daytime visits.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Konark Dance Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.