ASI Bars Entry to Konark Sun Temple’s Nata Mandap

In a bid to ensure the safety of visitors and preserve its heritage, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced a new restriction at the Konark Sun Temple. Tourists are no longer permitted to ascend or physically interact with the ‘Nata Mandap’ section of the 13th-century temple, located in Odisha’s Puri district. This directive, effective immediately, comes after a series of unfortunate incidents where visitors suffered injuries from falls while taking selfies or pictures on the structure. The ASI also observed instances of deliberate damage to the ancient stone carvings by tourists touching and scratching the monument. To prevent further harm and ensure visitor well-being, security has been heightened at the site. The Konark Sun Temple, a testament to Kalingan architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, was commissioned by King Narasingha Deva I. This measure prioritizes the preservation of this invaluable piece of Indian history.