Welcome to Bishnupur

The Legacy of
Mallabhum

Discover the red soil land where intricate terracotta temples whisper tales of the Malla Kings and the loom weaves stories into Baluchari silk.

The Malla Dynasty

Founded in the 8th century, Mallabhum (Land of Wrestlers) was the glorious kingdom of the Malla kings. The zenith of its culture was reached under King Raghunath Singha and Bir Hambir in the 17th century.

Dig deeper into the history of Bishnupur. View the full timeline.

Founded: 694 AD | Bishnupur Gharana
Dal Madal Cannon
Destinations

Historical Sites

Witness the intricate terracotta panels depicting the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and the daily lives of the Malla era.

Rasmancha

Rasmancha

Built by King Bir Hambir in 1600 AD. This unique pyramid-like structure was used to display the idols of Lord Krishna from all neighboring temples during the Rash festival.

Jor Bangla

Jor Bangla

Built by King Raghunath Singha in 1655. It resembles two thatched huts joined together (Do-Chala). The terracotta panels here are among the finest in Bengal.

Shyam Rai Temple

Shyam Rai

A Pancha-ratna (five-pinnacled) temple built in 1643. Known for its elaborate terracotta ornamentation on all four sides.

Baluchari Saree Bankura Horse

Culture & Heritage

The Baluchari Saree

World-famous silk sarees where the "Pallu" acts as a canvas for weavers to depict scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Terracotta Art

The "Bankura Horse" is a symbol of Indian artistic excellence. The local red soil is crafted into intricate pottery and tiles.

Bishnupur Gharana

The only Dhrupad gharana of Bengal, established under the patronage of the Malla kings.

Accommodation

Where to Stay

WBTDCL Tourist Lodge

Government-run lodge offering comfortable AC and non-AC rooms with a restaurant serving Bengali cuisine.

Recommended

Hotel Annapurna

Located near the temples, offering modern amenities and travel assistance for local sightseeing.

Homestays

Experience local hospitality by staying with a Bishnupur family. Authentic food and culture exchange.

Gastronomy

Flavors of Mallabhum

Bishnupur offers unique sweets that are not found anywhere else in Bengal.

  • Mecha Sandesh

    A deep-fried sweet made of gram flour and khoya, dipped in sugar syrup. A must-try delicacy.

  • Posto Bora

    Poppy seed fritters, a staple of the Bankura district cuisine.

Bengali Sweets
Festivals

Celebrations

Bishnupur Mela

An annual heritage fair held in late December. It is a vibrant showcase of the region's art, craft, music (Bishnupur Gharana), and culture, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Rash Mela

Held in November during Karthik Purnima. The Malla Kings initiated this grand festival where idols of Radha-Krishna are displayed in the Rasmancha. It is the biggest festival in the city.

View All Festivals

City Directory

Emergency

  • Police Station: +91 3244-252024
  • Sub-Divisional Hospital: +91 3244-252019
  • Fire Brigade: 101

Transport

  • Bishnupur Railway Station (VSU)
  • SBSTC Bus Stand
  • Nearest Airport: Kolkata (CCU)

Administration

  • Bishnupur Municipality
  • SDO Office, Bishnupur
  • Tourist Information Center