Chandrabhaga is located 3 km east of the famous Konark Sun Temple and 30 km from Puri. Until recent years, Chandrabhaga was considered a natural place of healing for lepers. The mythical ‘Shamba’ (Son of Krishna), healed, worshiped the Sun God to heal him at the mouth of the Chandrabhaga river, the river has dried up. It is reduced to a dry bed or a narrow drop. It was an ideal place for religious activity. Naturally the place, far from human vegetation. Always swept by the gentle breeze and bathed in endless waves, it is best suited to offerings and also becomes a romance. Camel ride and Boating are the famous rides at Chandrabhaga Beach Konark.
According to yet another mythological reference, Chandrabhag, the daughter of a sage, cough the attraction of the Sun God by her magical charm. The God came down to seek her hand in love. Chandrabhaga did not offer herself to the God. Maddened by romantic pangs, the God chased behind a frightened Chandrabhaga who jumped in to the river and killed herself, but succeeded in protecting her chastity. As a mark of tribute to her sacrifice, every year on the 7th day of the full moon fortnight of Magha month, lakhs of people from all over the state and outside gather to take a holy dip in the river that is reduced to a shallow pool, offer their prayers to the Sun God and enjoy the Sun rise.
Chandrabhaga’s sacrifice might have been forgotten, but the place which bears her name is remembered as a holy shrine and the place of the Rising Sun. It continues to inspire religious and meditative activities. It has been a big hunting ground for poets, artists and lovers. A moments pause at Chandrabhaga is a great fatigue healer. Numerous visitors to Konark make Chandrabhaga a positive stop. Several others stay at Konark overnight to enjoy the beauty of the following day.
A light house, close by Chandrabhaga is an added histrionic to the splendor of the place. A climb to its top truly takes you to a world of utopia. A natural deer park is recent additions to the riches of Chandrabhaga.
There is an ancient Matha believed to be the Ashram of Chandrabhaga’s father and two small temples. The sight has aesthetic and importance.
Things to do at Chandrabhaga Beach:
- Often the best thing to do when you are in a setting as beautiful as this, is to do nothing at all.
- Boating in the calm waters of the sea is an enthralling experience. Enlist the services of the local boats stationed at the beach. But take necessary precautions.
- For those who seek adventure, there are camps along the marine drive from Puri to Konark which offers options in water sports.
- Always enlist the help of a Nulia (Lifeguard) before venturing into the sea.
**Always remember that vacations are meant to be reminisced as happy memories. Enjoy responsibly and be sensitive to the environment.
How to Reach Chandrabhaga Beach:
The Nearest Railway Station is Puri Junction which is just 35 kms.
The Nearest Airport is at Bhubaneswar which is 60 kms.
Road Transport Puri is well connected by Bus Service from across the state & West Bengal as well.