Terracotta Temples at Bishunpur: Tourist spots in Bankura

Bishunpur is about 150Km. from Kolkata by road and about 220 Km.by rail.Nearest big city is Durgapur on Delhi-Howrah line.Direct trains from Howrah and buses from Kolkata's Esplanade and Shahid Minar bus terminus are available.

Bishunpur has a unique treasure of Terracotta temples.This kind of temples are very rare.These temples are elaborate in architecture and display merger of various styles.The intricate carving,the filigree,depiction of mythological references make one proud of our rich heritage.

Bishunpur was capital of Malla rulers in 16th century and these beautiful temples are built by them only.

Most of these temples are dedicated to Lord Krishna.Few of them are Radhey shyam temple,Shyam Ray temple.There are others such as Sarbmangla and Chhinmasta.Ras Manch is perhaps Bishunpur's most famous temple .It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Besides these temples Bishunpur also have many beautiful lakes.These lakes also owe their origin to Malla rulers.These water bodies are helpful in cooling down the place . Lalbandh,Jamunabandh and Krishnabandh are few of them

Bishunpur can prove to be shopper's delight as far as Terricota pottery and handicrafts are concerned.I feel almost all of us know that lovely terricota horse known as Bankura and Bishunpur is known for it. circular playing cards Ganijifa is another speciality .besides these Baluchari and tussar silk sarees,metal and shell handicrafts are other attractions.