Discover Odisha's winter magic at the Sand Art Festival—a breathtaking blend of sand sculptures, lively folk dances and many other activities awaiting you.
If you're planning to visit Odisha for your winter getaway, make sure to include the unmissable International Sand Art Festival on your itinerary. Delve into a mosaic of experiences beyond, such as the enchantment of bird watching, the rhythmic folk dance, and a multitude of other captivating activities waiting to be explored.
The Sand Festival celebrates the incredible artistry of sand sculptures that stand firm against the waves, leaving behind remarkable imprints. Skilled artists craft not only traditional sand sculptures but also breathtaking renditions in sand, stone, bronze, and wood. This International Sand Artist Festival is a dazzling showcase featuring talented artists from India and various countries worldwide. About 30 Indian artists and 10 international participants transform the golden shores of Chandrabhaga with their mastery.
Originating in 2011 on Chandrabhaga beach, just a stone's throw from Konark, this festival was initially part of the concurrent Konark Dance Festival. Each year, artists delve into themes revolving around pressing global issues, infusing their creations with meaning amid the sandy canvas. This year, it will be held from December 1-5.
Immerse yourself in Odisha's hidden gem of bird watching culture while reveling in the wonder of the Sand Art Festival. Embark on a captivating journey through the lesser-explored avian wonders of Odisha, where stunning destinations like the Satkosia Sands Resort in Badmul, the enchanting expanse of Chilika Lake, the serene DEBRIGARH NATURE CAMP, and numerous others await your discovery. Explore these havens for birding enthusiasts and let the diverse feathered inhabitants of Odisha weave a spellbinding narrative alongside the grandeur of the Sand Art Festival.
The rich Odisha’s cultural identity weaves together diverse faiths and cultures, molding a vibrant landscape where myriad hues merge to create its performing arts and folk dances. Among these, the graceful movements of Gotipua, Chhau, Ghumura, and the Ranappa are parts of this cultural mosaic. To immerse oneself in this lively spectacle, one can witness these vibrant folk dances amidst the amazing settings of Satkosia Sands Resort in Badmul, Similipal, Daringbadi, Belghar and others.
Exploring the mangrove creeks at Bhitarkanika Nature Camp through boating is an unforgettable journey. Drifting along these waterways unveils a world of diverse wildlife, reptiles, and avian species, with countless saltwater crocodiles sunbathing along the creeks. There's a chance, if luck smiles upon you, to witness the raw beauty of predator-prey interactions among the wilderness. Additionally, navigating the Nature Camps at Chilika, Chandaka, Rissa, Nuanai-Puri, and Debrigarh promises an enriching experience. Particularly, traversing the waters of Chilika Lake, the largest bird nesting ground in Asia, unveils a breathtaking sight of millions of migratory birds arriving from various corners of the globe, painting the skies with their vibrant hues. While delighting in the Sand Art Festival, amplify your experience by embarking on a boating adventure. Double your joy by indulging in both!
Exciting news for photographers and admirers of scenic beauty alike! The International Sand Art Festival unveils a mesmerizing spectacle worth capturing through your camera lens. Adding to the allure, Odisha's Nature Camps boast a diverse canvas of landscapes: from riverside havens and lush forests to serene hillsides, coastal beaches, tranquil lakes, and mangroves. These areas are seen with a wealth of wildlife, offering photographic opportunities. From the captivating presence of Olive Ridley turtles to the playful grace of Irrawaddy Dolphins, the striking contrast of red and white crabs on sandy shores, the presence of flamingos and skimmers, and the majestic sightings of elephants, bisons, Chitals, Sambars, leopards, and tigers—all await to be captured in their unique and exotic glory.