Terracotta temples of Bishnupur
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Brick and laterite temples of the Malla kings, covered in terracotta panels showing scenes from the epics, Krishna’s life and daily life.
MonumentBishnupur, Bankura districtBest time to visit: October to March; the Bishnupur Mela in December
Highlights
- Rasmancha, a pyramid-roofed platform where idols were displayed during Ras festival
- Shyam Rai and Jor Bangla temples with richly carved terracotta walls
- Madan Mohan temple and the Dalmadal cannon
- Baluchari sarees, Bankura horses and the Bishnupur gharana of music
Significance
Built mainly in the 17th and 18th centuries by Vaishnava Malla rulers, the temples show Bengal’s curved ‘chala’ roof style. Many are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.