West Bengal Tourism has a lot of underrated gems to offer to World Travelers.
West Bengal is one Eastern state of India. Major Language spoken is Bengali. Bengal has a lot to offer in terms of Culture and Tourism. These places are still underrated compared to other popular tourist destinations of India. I would like to highlight one such underrated place in West Bengal named Bishnupur. Bisnupur is a small town in the Bankura District of Bengal.
A Land of Terracotta Temples and Pottery Art – Bishnupur
Bishnupur offers beautiful Terracotta Temples from the 16th Century from the Malla Dynasty. Bishnupur derives its name from the Lord Vishnu. There are many such temples that stand testimony to the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of the region. The temples were crafted from the local laterite and brick. The temples are covered with terracotta tiles depicting scenes from the epic Mahabharata and Krishna Raas. The temples are located in Bishnupur and across many other small villages in the Bankura district.
There are about 17 temples big and small situated in Bishnupur. All the temples are maintained by the Archeological Survey of India. These temples made of burnt clay have stood the test of time without much major damage. The intricate figurine designs are still intact. Besides these temples, Bishnupur terracotta handicrafts can be purchased supporting the local artisans. Traditional Terracotta Pottery is still practiced in the Panchmura Village of Bishnupur. Due to the lack of developed infrastructure, Terracotta Art is dwindling.
How to reach Bishnupur?
Bishnupur is 139 km from Kolkata. Nearest Airport is Kolkata. Bus Routes are available. One can reach in about 4.5 hours if going bu Car. Bishnupur has a Railway Station well connected by Indian Railways to major cities in India. It is a perfect destination for Art and History Lovers. It takes around 2 days to explore all the temples at an unhurried pace. Among all the temples, Jor Bangla, Madan Mohan, Ras Mancha & Shyam Rai Temples are worth checking out.
Where to stay in Bishnupur?
Check out Hotels from Make My Trip. If one has more days in hand the entire district of Bankura has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. Jayrambati, the birthplace of the enigma Rama Krishna Paramhansa is in Kotulpur town of Bankura.
While being there do not forget to check out Baluchari Sarees. The Terracotta Art is depicted on Silk Sarees with intricate thread work. For more information about Bishnupur check out the Website of Bisnupur Tourism
I being a Bengali myself, born in West Bengal have my roots from this Heritage town of Bishnupur. Travel to Bishnupur experience these heritage monuments.
Also, read about another Art Destination in India – Maihar in Madhya Pradesh
P.S. All the pictures have been clicked by me. There are no affiliate links on this page.
How to travel to Bishnupur?
It takes about 4-5 hours to reach Bishnupur. The road distance is shorter than the rail distance, it is about 150 km. By road – From Kolkata travel to Dankuni, take the Durgapur Expressway, at Ratanpur crossing turn left and take the Sheoraphuli-Tarakeswar road, go straight through to Arambagh and Bishnupur.
Bishnupur is best visited between October and March which is winter season in the state. Summers are scorching, and it is best to avoid any trip during this time.
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