Konark Natya Mandap Closed to Tourists Amid Safety Concerns
Konark, November 9, 2025: In a move that has sparked widespread public reaction, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has closed the iconic Natya Mandap (dance hall) of the Konark Sun Temple to tourists.
The decision comes after multiple incidents of visitors falling while attempting selfies or engaging in unsafe behaviour near the structure.
The ASI cited safety concerns and the need to preserve the monument’s integrity as the primary reasons behind the closure. According to officials, climbing on the monument is prohibited under heritage protection laws. To enforce this, barricades have been installed at all four entrances of the Natya Mandap.
However, the sudden restriction has drawn criticism from various quarters. Tourists and heritage enthusiasts have expressed disappointment, particularly due to the lack of alternative arrangements.
The closure now prevents visitors from viewing the intricate stone carvings that adorn the upper sections of the Mandap—one of the temple’s most celebrated architectural features.
Local stakeholders and tourism operators have urged the ASI to consider safer viewing platforms or guided access to ensure both preservation and public engagement with the site’s cultural richness.
The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to attract thousands of visitors daily. The current development underscores the delicate balance between heritage conservation and public accessibility.
