Bishnupur, or Vishnupur, is an important cultural center west of Kolkata (Calcutta). Most people visit Bishnupur for its terracotta temples that were built by the Malla kings who had their capital there. The temples were built using bricks, as stone was not available. Later the bricks were covered with terracotta tiles depicting scenes from the Hindu epics.

From the dozen or so temples that remain, the Madan Mohan and the Ras Mancha are the most intriguing.

• Acharya Jogesh Chandra Pura Kirti Bhavan houses a museum.
• Bangiya Sahitya Parishad.
• Bishnupur Hawa Mahal.
• Dalmadal Cannon is also known as Dalmadal Kaman. It was constructed in 1742.
• Garh Darwaja, or the small gateway of Bishnupur.
• Gour-Nitai Temple (Tejpal).
• Gumgarh.
• Jor Bangla Temple of Keshta Rai is also known as Keshto Ray Temple. It was built in 1655.
• KeshabRai Temple (Patpur).
• Lalbandh.
• Lalgarh.
• Madanmohan Temple.
• The Memorial of Shrinibas Acharya.
• Nutan Mahal.
• Pancha Ratna Temple of Shyam Rai.
• Pathar Darwaja is also known as the main gateway of Bishnupur.
• TheRadha Madhab Temple was founded in 1737 and it is dedicated to Radha and Krishna.
• Rasmancha was constructed in 1600, making it the oldest brick temple in Bishnupur. it features an elongated pyramidal tower that is surrounded by hut-shaped turrets.
• Stone Chariot.

The region around Bishnupur is important for ceramics manufacturing and there are numerous interesting markets. In August, the Jhapan Festival is held in the area. Goddess Manasa is honored by snake charmers during the festivities.

There are numerous hotels and restaurants in town, although most people prefer to stay in Kolkata (Calcutta) and visit Bishnupur on a day trip. Bishnupur is in West Bengal, 1,220 km southeast of Delhi.

Bishnupur ©Souvik Bose

Bishnupur ©Souvik Bose

Bishnupur ©Abhideep Mallick

Jor Bangla Temple ©Firoj Ali