The International Sand Art Festival is a remarkable cultural event held by the Orissa Tourism Department. Held at the Chandrabhaga Beach, 3 km from Konark, the sand art festival is an event for people in love with sand creations. It is one of the events which highlights Orissa and its wonderful tourism opportunities.
The Sand festival celebrates sand sculptures produced by skillful sand artists. Not just the traditional sand sculptures, get ready for all kinds of exhibits. Expect sand, stone, bronze or wood, created by skillful sand artists. The sand festival is free for spectators. Remind yourself the excitement of creating things with sand.
History of International Sand Art Festival
The International Sand Art Festival was started in 2015 on the Chandrabhaga beach, a short distance from Konark. It was a part of the Konark Dance Festival that is organized during the same time. Due to the proximity from Konark Sun Temple, both these events have tourists crowding from all over the world. The 2nd edition is to be held on December.
Celebrations of International Sand Art Festival
The International Sand Artist Festival celebrates the spectacular displays of sand artists from India and from other many countries. The soft golden sands are sculpted into various magnificent forms. Wood, stone, bronze and other attractions are added to the exhibition. Skilled sculptors bring to life the wonderful sand exhibits on the seashores of Chandrabhaga beach.
Famous Orissa sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik who has been awarded the Padma Shree for his marvelous art is the brand ambassador of the event. As many as 30 Indian and 10 foreign artists are expected to participate in International Sand Art Festival organized in Orissa. Best sand artists from Mexico, Spain, Singapore, France, Norway, Germany, Netherland & USA and remaining 20 artists are from different states of India will participate and produce sand art. The cut-throat competition between participants is definitely a sight to watch. The creator of best sand art will win a prize of INR 100,000.
The event witnesses thousands of people from all over the world coming to see this festival. Do not miss the Konark Dance festival which will be celebrated during the same time.
How to Reach
Konark has great air, rail and road connectivity. It is accessible from most major parts of India. Here is how to reach Konark:
By Air
Biju Patnaik airport at Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport to Konark. The air terminal is nearly 64 km from the city. The airport is connected domestically throughout the country. International travelers need to get connections through Delhi or Kolkata. From the airport there are options of cabs, buses and private vehicles to the beach city.
By Rail
Konark is connected by Puri railway junction. Regular direct train services are available from many cities in India. The railway station is 31 km from the coastal town. Taxis easily take you to the beach.
By Road
Konark is connected with the neighboring cities through well-constructed roads. State owned buses offer regular connections. Taxis and private vehicles can easily commute to the coastal town.
Attend the International Sand Art Festival, check out accommodations in Konark from our listed collection. Luxury hotels, boutique hotels, budget lodgings, all kinds of hotels in Konark are available for bookings. Explore more of Odisha, with our collection of tour packages. Culture, history, beach, festivals, wildlife, or anything you wish for, we provide you with suitable Orissa holiday packages.
