The most popular and colourful festival of Konark is Magha Mela, on the6th- 7th day of the bright half of the month of 'Magha' (January-February). The pilgrims from nearby areas assemble on the night of 6th day at Chandrabhaga beach, worship the local deities, and take holy dips in the Chandrabhaga tank on the confluence of the Bay of Bengal next morning and welcome the rising Sun with prayers. The holy dip here and payin homage to the Sun God on this day is considered sacred as Konark is known as Arka Kshetra, the seat of the Sun God This is an occasion to observe the local populace in their traditional colours and costumes. This is the second largest festival of Orissa in terms visitors turn out.
