Bishnupur: The Land of Terracotta Temples
Nestled in the Bankura district, Bishnupur is a testament to the artistic glory of the Malla dynasty, which ruled the region for nearly a thousand years. The Malla kings, devout Vaishnavites, patronised a unique form of temple architecture using the locally
available laterite clay to create stunning terracotta tiles. These intricate panels, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, wrap around the temples, depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the life of Lord Krishna. This incredible craftsmanship has earned the temples of Bishnupur a place on UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage Sites. The town is not just a hub for architecture; it is also the home of the famous Baluchari sarees, which are known for weaving similar mythological scenes onto silk.
Key Sights and How to Get There
The most iconic structure in Bishnupur is the Rasmancha, a unique pyramidal temple built in 1600 where idols from various temples were displayed during the Ras festival. Other must-see temples include the Pancha Ratna Temple (Shyam Rai Temple) with its five pinnacles and the Jor-Bangla Temple, which resembles two thatched huts joined together. The Madanmohan Temple, built in 1694, is another excellent example of the 'Eka-Ratna' style with its single tower. Reaching Bishnupur from Kolkata is straightforward. The journey by road is approximately 140-150 km and takes about 4 to 5 hours. Several trains also connect Howrah and Santragachi to Bishnupur, with a journey time of around 3 to 4 hours, making it an ideal weekend trip.
Murshidabad: A Glimpse of Nawabi Splendour
Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi river, Murshidabad was the last capital of independent Bengal before the British took over. Named after Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, the city was once a prosperous metropolis, considered as wealthy as London during the 18th century. It served as the administrative seat for the Nawabs of Bengal, who ruled over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa. Today, the city is a treasure trove of palaces, mosques, and tombs that offer a poignant look into the opulent and tumultuous lives of the Nawabs, including the infamous Siraj-ud-Daulah.
Exploring the City of Nawabs
The undisputed centrepiece of Murshidabad is the magnificent Hazarduari Palace, or the 'Palace of a Thousand Doors'. This 19th-century Indo-European marvel now serves as a museum housing an incredible collection of antiques, art, and weapons from the Nawabi era. Adjacent to it lies the Nizamat Imambara, the largest of its kind in India. Other significant sites include the Katra Mosque, which holds the tomb of Murshid Quli Khan under its entrance stairs, and the peaceful Khushbagh, the final resting place of Nawab Alivardi Khan and his grandson, Siraj-ud-Daulah. Murshidabad is also renowned for its exquisite silk.
Travel and Best Time to Visit
Murshidabad is well-connected to Kolkata by both road and rail. The drive is approximately 200 km and takes around 5-6 hours. Numerous express trains like the Hazarduari Express and Bhagirathi Express run daily from Kolkata to Murshidabad, taking about 3 to 4 hours. The town is divided by the Bhagirathi river, with major sites like the Hazarduari Palace on the eastern bank and Khushbagh on the western bank, easily crossed by local boats. The best time to visit both Bishnupur and Murshidabad is during the cooler winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
