Konark Sun Temple Museum — Attraction in Odisha

Visiting the Konark Sun Temple Museum was an enriching experience that added depth to my understanding of the iconic Sun Temple. Situated just a short walk from the main temple complex, the museum is a must-visit for anyone keen on delving into the history and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The museum is well-maintained and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment to explore its four galleries. These galleries house over 250 artifacts, including intricate sculptures, temple fragments, and detailed models that showcase the grandeur of the original temple structure. Notable exhibits include images of Surya Narayana, celestial nymphs, and reconstructed wheels of the temple chariot.

One of the highlights of the visit was the 15-minute animated film screened in the museum's auditorium. This audiovisual presentation effectively narrates the temple's construction, significance, and eventual decline, offering insights that enhance the on-site experience of the temple itself.

The entry fee is nominal, at ₹30 for Indian citizens and ₹500 for foreign nationals. Children up to 15 years can enter free of charge. The museum operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday through Thursday, and is closed on Fridays.

Parking facilities are available nearby, making it convenient for visitors traveling by car. Additionally, the museum premises include clean restrooms and a restaurant, ensuring a comfortable visit.

For those interested in further exploring the site's history, the Konark Sun Temple also hosts a Light and Sound Show in the evenings. This 45-minute show, available in Hindi, English, and Odia, uses high-definition projections and wireless headphones to narrate the temple's story. Tickets are priced at ₹30 per person.

In conclusion, the Konark Sun Temple Museum offers a comprehensive and engaging prelude to the temple visit. Its informative exhibits and audiovisual presentations provide valuable context, making the overall experience more meaningful. I highly recommend allocating time for the museum before exploring the temple...

I was surprised to visit the Konark temple recently because things have really changed a lot (and I mean it in a positive way) from the last time I visited. The Konark sun temple in itself is like it was although time has taken a toll on its magnificence. However, the recent change that I noticed is how the Indian Oil Corporation has taken a step in preserving the history of the temple and presenting it to the general public in such a nice way. Before you enter the main temple you have a picturesque courtyard adorned with flowering bushes and statues and you have a museum and convention centre (maintained by Indian Oil Corporation). The entry fees is 50/- per head but it is worth it. Inside the museum you will find the replicas of the different statues and works of art that adorned the sun temple including the three giant statues of the sun god depicting the rising sun, mid day sun and the setting sun. There is an auditorium where you can watch a 15 minute documentary about the past history of the temple including when why and how it was constructed. The animated video was fun to watch and also very informative. All this is just about the museum and you have not entered the main temple yet. After coming out of the museum you can go to visit the main temple. You have to buy separate tickets for that and the cost of the ticket is 40/- per head. There is not much that I have to say regarding the main temple. This was once the most famous sun temple but with the passage of time it has been reduced to ruins. However, the works of art are still visible and you can still marvel at how people created something so grand...

It is A very Nice Museum founded by India Oil Corporation All the replica and the history of the sun temple is well display. The entry fee is rs 30 for indian on 2021.( Bole to paisa basil wala visit, jahan app sab ke history bahut achhe se jan sakte hain) The light and sound show is based on mythologies. But the presentation is too good.. Everybody can enjoy the Museum. The place is clean and well maintained by the stuff. They are very helpful. The museum is located near the main temple in the north direction. The museum has four galleries that showcase 260 different fallen architectural pieces and sculptures that were found during the clearance work of Konark temple complex. The Konark museum is a treasure house for historians and art lovers and is open for public.

First gallery of the museum holds 62 antiquities, out of which the image of Surya in sand stone, the Khandolite built reconstructed wheel, various incarnations of Lord Visnu, etc. are a major attractions.

Second gallery exhibits 108 antiquities including reconstructed wall of temple, the drummer and the head of the crocodile in gigantic nature.

Third gallery of this museum showcases 45 objects like celestial nymphs, image of Surya Narayana, Gaja Vyala, the king and his troop and various sensual figures.

Recent addition to the museum is the fourth gallery, which holds exhibit of 45 artifacts including roaring lion, man tied by the elephant trunk, part of a Surya image, sensual couples and king witnessing dance performances are some of the art works displayed at...