International Sand Art Festival 2026: Dates, Venue, Attractions and Travel Guide

The International Sand Art Festival 2026 will take place from December 1 to December 5, 2026, at Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark, Odisha, India. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Odisha, the festival celebrates the creativity of Indian and international sand artists through detailed sculptures created on the beach. Visitors can combine the festival with a trip to the Konark Sun Temple, Puri and other attractions along Odisha’s coast. The event takes place alongside the Konark Festival, making early December an excellent time to explore the state’s art, architecture and cultural traditions.

If you are planning a winter holiday in Odisha, this guide covers the festival dates, location, highlights, travel options, nearby places to visit, and practical tips for making the most of your trip.

What Is the International Sand Art Festival?

The International Sand Art Festival is an annual cultural event that transforms the sands of Chandrabhaga Beach into an open-air gallery. Artists use sand as their medium to create elaborate sculptures inspired by culture, mythology, nature, social issues, and contemporary themes.

According to Odisha Tourism, the festival began in 2015 and has developed into an important part of the state’s cultural calendar. It brings together artistic expression and coastal tourism, allowing visitors to see sand sculpting as a live art form rather than simply viewing finished artworks. The event also highlights Odisha’s contribution to India’s wider arts and cultural landscape.

Unlike permanent monuments, sand sculptures are temporary. Their detail and scale make them fascinating to observe, while their temporary nature is part of what makes the experience distinctive. Visitors may see works that celebrate Indian traditions, environmental awareness, peace, wildlife and other subjects, depending on the artists and themes selected for the year.

International Sand Art Festival 2026: Dates and Venue

Here are the key details to know before planning your visit.

The dates and venue are listed by the official Odisha Tourism website and the Incredible India tourism portal. Check the official event pages before travelling for any changes to schedules, access arrangements or visitor information. Odisha Tourism | Incredible India.

What Makes the International Sand Art Festival Special?

1. Sand sculptures created by skilled artists

The main attraction is the chance to see artists transform ordinary beach sand into expressive sculptures. Detailed figures, patterns and large-scale compositions demonstrate the patience, planning and technical skill required for sand art.

The festival features artists from India and other countries, creating an opportunity for visitors to appreciate different artistic styles and interpretations. The participating artists and individual works can vary from year to year.

2. Art inspired by culture and current issues

Sand art can communicate ideas without relying on lengthy explanations. Sculptures may draw inspiration from Indian mythology, historical figures, wildlife, environmental protection, peace and social awareness.

The themes for the 2026 edition should be confirmed through official festival updates as they become available. Visitors should avoid assuming that a particular artist or sculpture will appear unless it has been officially announced.

3. A scenic coastal setting

Chandrabhaga Beach provides a distinctive setting for the festival. The open shoreline, sea breeze and coastal landscape add to the experience of viewing sand sculptures outdoors.

The beach is also known for its sunrise views and its cultural significance in the Konark region. Visitors can plan time for the coastline as well as the festival itself, while following local safety guidance and respecting any restricted areas.

4. A wider cultural experience

The festival takes place during the same period as the Konark Festival, which celebrates Indian classical dance and music. Together, these events offer a combination of visual art, performing arts and heritage tourism.

If you are visiting Odisha in December, you can use the festival as the centrepiece of a wider trip covering Bhubaneswar, Konark and Puri.

How to Reach Chandrabhaga Beach for the Festival

Chandrabhaga Beach is located near Konark in Puri district, Odisha. You can reach the region through Bhubaneswar or Puri and continue by road to the festival venue.

By air

Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is a major arrival point for visitors travelling from other Indian cities. From the airport, arrange a taxi or other suitable road transport to Konark and Chandrabhaga Beach. Allow additional travel time during busy festival days.

By train

Bhubaneswar and Puri are major railway access points for this coastal region. From either city, visitors can continue by road to Konark. Check train schedules, onward transport availability and journey times before booking.

By road

Konark is connected by road with Bhubaneswar and Puri. A road journey allows you to combine the sand art festival with other attractions along the coast. Travel time depends on your starting point, traffic and road conditions, so allow a reasonable buffer if you want to visit more than one place in a day.

Travel tip: If you are arriving in Bhubaneswar, consider staying there and making a planned day trip to Konark, or choose accommodation closer to Konark or Puri if you want to spend more time in the area. Compare the location, transport arrangements and availability before confirming your stay.

Places to Visit Near the International Sand Art Festival

One advantage of attending the festival is its proximity to several well-known destinations in Odisha.

Konark Sun Temple

The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its monumental architecture and intricate stone carvings. Dedicated to the Sun God, the 13th-century temple is one of Odisha’s most recognisable heritage attractions.

Plan a separate visit so you have enough time to explore the temple complex and understand its architectural significance. Confirm current entry arrangements and visiting hours before setting out.

Chandrabhaga Beach

Even outside the festival, Chandrabhaga Beach is worth visiting for its coastal scenery and sunrise views. During the festival, the beach becomes the setting for the sand sculptures, making it a central part of the visitor experience.

Follow lifeguard instructions and local advisories, and do not assume that all areas of the shoreline are safe for swimming.

Puri

Puri is known for the Jagannath Temple, its beach and its rich religious and cultural traditions. Travellers can extend their Konark visit to explore the city, sample Odia cuisine and browse local markets.

If you plan to visit Jagannath Temple, check the current entry rules and visitor guidance in advance.

Bhubaneswar

Often called the Temple City of India, Bhubaneswar offers historic temples, museums, local food and access to transport connections. Attractions such as Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple and the Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves can make an interesting addition to a festival itinerary.

For visitors arriving by air or rail, Bhubaneswar can be a convenient starting point for exploring the wider region.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary for the Sand Art Festival

Day 1: Bhubaneswar and Konark

Start in Bhubaneswar and travel towards Konark. Visit the Konark Sun Temple, allowing sufficient time to explore its architecture. Continue to Chandrabhaga Beach for the International Sand Art Festival. Check the festival’s daily programme and any official access guidance before finalising your timings.

Day 2: Puri and the coast

Travel to Puri to explore the city’s cultural attractions and coastline. If time permits, visit local markets and sample regional food. You can then return to Bhubaneswar or extend your stay according to your transport arrangements.

This is a suggested route rather than an official festival itinerary. Adjust it to suit your arrival time, transport and the amount of time you want to spend at each attraction.

Travel Tips for Visitors in 2026

• Plan early: Early December is a popular time for cultural tourism in the Konark region. Book transport and accommodation in advance where possible.

• Check official updates: Verify festival dates, access details and any announcements on Odisha Tourism’s website before departure.

• Wear comfortable footwear: You may be walking on sand and spending time outdoors.

• Protect your belongings: Keep valuables secure, especially in busy visitor areas.

• Respect the artwork: Follow any instructions around the sculptures and avoid touching or damaging installations.

• Carry water and sun protection: The event is outdoors, so prepare for sun exposure even during the cooler season.

• Allow time for traffic: Road journeys may take longer during major events and peak visitor periods.

• Keep your itinerary flexible: Weather and local arrangements can affect outdoor plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When and where will the sand art festival in Odisha be held in 2026?

The International Sand Art Festival 2026 is scheduled for December 1–5, 2026, at Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark in Puri district, Odisha. The dates are listed on the official Odisha Tourism website. Visitors should check the official website before travelling for any updated announcements.

2. In which Indian state is the International Sand Art Festival celebrated?

The International Sand Art Festival is celebrated in Odisha, India, at Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark. The event showcases sand sculptures by artists from India and other countries and is held during the Konark Festival season.

3. Is the International Sand Art Festival held every year?

The festival is an annual cultural event in Odisha’s tourism calendar. Odisha Tourism states that it began in 2015. Visitors should check the latest official announcement for the dates and arrangements of each edition.

4. Is the International Sand Art Festival 2026 held alongside the Konark Festival?

Yes. Both events are scheduled for December 1–5, 2026. The International Sand Art Festival takes place at Chandrabhaga Beach, while the Konark Festival is held at the open-air auditorium in Konark. Check each event’s official page for its venue and programme details.

5. How can I reach the International Sand Art Festival from Bhubaneswar?

You can travel by road from Bhubaneswar to Konark and Chandrabhaga Beach. Bhubaneswar also has an international airport and a major railway station. Arrange onward transport in advance, particularly during festival dates, and allow extra time for traffic.

6. What other places can I visit during the festival?

You can combine the festival with the Konark Sun Temple, Puri, Bhubaneswar and Chandrabhaga Beach. With additional time, explore local crafts and cultural attractions in the region. Check individual sites for current timings and visitor rules.

7. Is the International Sand Art Festival suitable for families?

The festival can be an enjoyable cultural outing for families, art enthusiasts and visitors interested in Odisha’s heritage. Because it takes place outdoors, wear comfortable footwear, carry water and supervise children around the beach and any designated viewing areas.

Conclusion

The International Sand Art Festival 2026 is a wonderful opportunity to experience Odisha through art, coastal scenery and cultural heritage. Scheduled for December 1–5 at Chandrabhaga Beach near Konark, the festival brings attention to the creativity of sand artists from India and around the world.

For a more complete trip, combine your visit with the Konark Sun Temple, Puri and Bhubaneswar. Plan your transport and accommodation early, check official updates before departure and leave enough time to enjoy each destination.

Whether you are interested in sand sculpture, photography, architecture or cultural tourism, the festival offers a memorable reason to explore Odisha in early December.