A journey to Bankura Bishnupur is a step back in time, an immersion into the rich cultural tapestry of West Bengal’s Mallabhum kingdom. Far from the urban clamour, this region, especially its jewel Bishnupur, whispers tales of artistic brilliance, devout kings, and the vibrant life sculpted in humble terracotta. If your heart yearns for heritage, handcrafted artistry, and serene landscapes, make Bankura Bishnupur your next travel destination.
The Malla kings, who once reigned over this region, patronized a unique form of temple architecture, turning Bishnupur into the “City of Temples.” Walking through the town feels like exploring an open-air museum, where every brick tells a story from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. This is the enduring legacy of Bankura Bishnupur.
Why Visit Bankura Bishnupur?
A heritage town with UNESCO-recognised terracotta architecture.
Ancient temples, forts, and art dating back to the Malla dynasty.
Serene natural landscapes – hills, lakes, forests, and tribal villages.
Famous for Baluchari sarees, terracotta art, and classical Bishnupur Gharana music.
Ideal weekend trip from Kolkata, Durgapur, Asansol, Burdwan & Jamshedpur.
While Bishnupur handles the heritage part of your visit, the wider Bankura district offers stunning natural beauty that perfectly complements the historical trail.
A trip to Bankura Bishnupur is perfect for families, heritage lovers, photographers, and culture seekers.
The Terracotta Temples of Bishnupur: An Architectural Marvel
The soul of a trip to Bankura Bishnupur lies in its terracotta temples, a testament to the high watermark of Bengal’s artistic expression. These aren’t just religious sites; they are cinematic canvases.
Rasmancha
The oldest brick temple (c. 1600 AD) and arguably the most unique structure in Bankura Bishnupur. Its elongated pyramidal tower and surrounding three-tier arches, where Radha-Krishna idols from all local temples were once gathered during the Ras festival, create a dramatic, almost ethereal silhouette.
Jor-Bangla Temple (Kesto Rai Temple)
Built in 1655, this temple, made of laterite brick, gets its name from its distinctive “Do Chala” (twin hut) shape. Its facade is a masterpiece, richly ornamented with intricate terracotta panels depicting scenes from the epics.
Shyam Rai Temple
Known as the Panch-Chura (Five-pinnacled) temple, this stunning structure from 1643 is one of the finest examples of terracotta work, detailing mythological stories, court life, and scenes of hunting.
Madan Mohan Temple
An Eka-Ratna (single-towered) style temple, built in 1694. Its terracotta ornamentation is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that flourished in Bankura Bishnupur.
Other Key Spots
Don’t miss the Dalmadal Cannon, a massive, rust-free iron cannon used by the Malla forces, and the ancient stone gateways like Pathar Darwaja (Main Gateway).
Art and Craft: Beyond the Temples
Bankura Bishnupur is synonymous with exquisite art forms that have achieved global recognition.
Baluchari Sarees
Bishnupur is the original home of the famous Baluchari saree. These silk sarees are characterized by pallus that narrate mythological and epic tales through their intricate weaving. Visiting a local weaving center offers a fascinating glimpse into this labor-intensive art.
Dokra Art
A short drive from Bishnupur takes you to the village of Bikna, a hub for the traditional Dokra craft—non–ferrous metal casting using the lost-wax technique. The handcrafted Dokra figurines are a perfect souvenir of your trip to Bankura Bishnupur.
Scenic Vistas of Bankura: The Land of Red Soil
While Bishnupur handles the heritage part of your visit, the wider Bankura district offers stunning natural beauty that perfectly complements the historical trail.
Mukutmanipur
About 70 km from Bishnupur, this is a serene village famous for the Kangsabati Dam, one of India’s largest earthen dams. The confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers, surrounded by hillocks and forests, is breathtaking, especially at sunset. A boat ride on the reservoir is a must-do.
Susunia Hill
Approximately 50 km from Bishnupur, this is a small hill famous for its natural spring and an ancient rock inscription (Silalipi). It’s a popular spot for trekking and rock-climbing, and a great place to absorb the raw, red-earthed landscape of Bankura.
Joypur Forest
Located close to Bishnupur, this dense deciduous forest offers a peaceful break and is a great spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
3-Day Bankura Bishnupur Tour Plan
Day 1: The Temple Town of Bishnupur
The focus of the first day is to immerse yourself in the UNESCO Tentative List heritage of Bishnupur’s terracotta temples.
Arrive at Bishnupur Railway Station. Transfer to your hotel/resort, check in, and have lunch.
Start your temple trail by visiting the most famous structures.
Oldest and most iconic terracotta temple built by Malla King Hambir Malla Dev.
Known for intricate terracotta carvings depicting scenes from Ramayana & Mahabharata.
A masterpiece of Panchratna-style Krishna temple architecture.
It is a Krishna temple, the Spiritual heart of Bishnupur, built in 1694.
Historic cannon used to protect Bishnupur from Maratha invasions.Raja Gopal Singha built it in 1742.
The ancient terracotta structure. The Main Gateway of Bishnupur Fort. There are Chota Patthar Darwaja and Bara Patthar Darwaja.
To see terracotta art, sculptures, and historical artifacts.
Evening: Explore the local market near Lalbandh for Baluchari Sarees and local crafts. You can attend the Poramatir Haat (Terracotta market/fair) if your visit falls on a Saturday.
Overnight stay at Bishnupur.
Day 2: Bankura: Mukutmanipur & Nearby Attractions
After breakfast, check out or start an early day trip. Drive to Bikna Village (approx. 1 hour, 38 km drive from Bishnupur).
This village is famous for the Dokra art.
Located at the confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers, the Mukutmanipur Dam is one of India’s largest earthen dams. Enjoy boating, Musafirana viewpoint, and photography along the lakeside.
A calm temple close to Mukutmanipur offering a serene spiritual experience.
Known as the “Queen of Forests,” this dense green region falls on the Bankura–Mukutmanipur route. A memorable drive and a must-add to your Bankura Bishnupur travel plan.
Have lunch at a local restaurant in Mukutmanipur or on the way back towards Bankura/Bishnupur, visit the nearby Panchmura Village & Radha Krishna Temple, the original home of the famous Bankura Horse terracotta craft. You can see the artisans at work.
Evening: Visit the Bishnupur craft shops to purchase Baluchari sarees, terracotta art, conch shell works, and handloom products. Your Bankura Bishnupur tour is incomplete without taking back this heritage.
Stay overnight at Bishnupur.
Day 3: Bankura (Hills & Culture)
After breakfast and check-out, start your trip
A calm temple offering a serene spiritual experience.
A must-visit on the Bankura Bishnupur tour, Susunia is famous for trekking, rock climbing, and ancient inscriptions. Don’t miss the natural spring site (Dhara) and the village markets selling dokra handicrafts.
Often called the “Araku of Bengal,” this is the highest hill in Bankura with scenic viewpoints, ideal for sunset lovers.
A lush sal and teak forest ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers. Perfect for a peaceful walk among greenery.
Post Lunch: Visit
Birthplace of Sri Sarada Devi, approx. 33 km from Bishnupur
You Can Also Choose This Another 2 Night 3 Day Tour Plan
DAY 1
Morning Reach Bankura
Biharinath & Susunia Hill
Mukutmanipur –
Boat Ride
Dear Park
Pareshnath Temple
Musafira
Kangsabati Dam
Night Stay at Mukutmanipur
DAY2
Start with Baromile Forest
Sutan Forest
Talberia Dam
Jhilimili Forest
Maa Ambika Temple
Reach Bishnupur and nightstay
DAY3
Visit Rashmancha
Jor Bangla Temple
Shyam Rai Temple
Garh Darwaja
Maa Mrinmoyee Temple
Panchmura
Bhairabsthan Temple
Bikna Village
Leave for Kolkata
Accommodation and Connectivity
The best time to plan your visit to Bankura Bishnupur is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing. The annual Bishnupur Mela in December is an added cultural bonus! So plan your journey and book your accommodation well in advance.
Connectivity
Bankura Bishnupur is well-connected, making your travel hassle-free.
By Air
The nearest airport is Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) in Durgapur. It is located in the Andal region of Durgapur (approx. 80-90 km away) or Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata (approx. 150 km away).
By Rail
Bishnupur has its own railway station (VSU) on the South Eastern Railway line. Regular trains like the Rupasi Bangla Express and Rajya Rani Express run from Kolkata (Howrah/Shalimar) to Bishnupur, making it an excellent weekend getaway. Bankura Junction is also a major station.
By Road
The journey from Kolkata to Bankura Bishnupur is about 4-5 hours (approx. 150-160 km) via NH 19. State and private buses operate frequently from Kolkata to both Bankura and Bishnupur.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation in Bankura Bishnupur ranges from budget-friendly lodges to comfortable hotels, primarily concentrated in Bishnupur town.
Bishnupur
Options like Hotel Annapurna and similar lodges provide comfortable stays close to the main temple complex. The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDC) also operates a tourist lodge.
Mukutmanipur
If you include Mukutmanipur in your Bankura Bishnupur trip, you’ll find various resorts and government-run lodgings offering beautiful lakeside views.
Bankura Town
As the district headquarters, Bankura town has a broader range of mid-range and budget hotels.
The best time to plan your visit to Bankura Bishnupur is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing. The annual Bishnupur Mela in December is an added cultural bonus!
Embark on this terracotta trail to truly understand the vibrant history and rich culture of Bankura Bishnupur. The captivating sculptures and the serene atmosphere of Bankura Bishnupur promise a unique and unforgettable travel experience.