Temples & Terracotta: A Journey through Bishnupur & Mayapur
Product Code : AGORA958
Embark on a culturally rich 3-day journey through the heart of Bengal, exploring the temple towns of Bishnupur and Mayapur. Discover Bishnupur’s terracotta masterpieces—timeless temples adorned with intricate carvings that reflect the glory of the Malla dynasty. Meet local artisans and witness the craftsmanship behind Baluchari sarees and clay artistry. Continue to Mayapur, the spiritual home of the ISKCON movement and birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Experience serene Ganges ghats, grand temple complexes, and devotional life in action. This immersive tour blends heritage, spirituality, and local traditions into one unforgettable experience.
Day 1: Kolkata – Bishnupur (Approx. 150 km / 4.5 hrs)
- Pick up from your hotel in Kolkata by a private AC vehicle.
- Drive through the scenic countryside of West Bengal en route to Bishnupur.
- Arrive in Bishnupur and check-in at your hotel.
Sightseeing in Bishnupur:
- Visit Jor-Bangla Temple, built in 1655, with distinctive twin hut-style roofs and intricate terracotta panels.
- Explore Rasmancha, the oldest brick temple in Bishnupur, shaped like a pyramid with a unique design.
- Admire the Shyam Rai Temple, famous for its five pinnacles and ornate terracotta narratives from Hindu epics.
- Visit Madan Mohan Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, noted for its curved cornices and square plan.
- See Radha-Govinda Temple, another 17th-century temple showcasing refined brick and terracotta work.
- Offer prayers at Chhinnamasta Temple, devoted to the fierce aspect of Goddess Kali.
- Visit the Dalmadal Cannon, cast by the Malla kings to protect the kingdom from Maratha invasions.
- See the ancient fortifications at Garh Darwaja and Pathar Darwaja, remnants of the Malla-era defense system.
- Explore a local terracotta craft workshop, where artisans still practice age-old pottery and carving techniques.
- Witness traditional Baluchari saree weaving in a local artisan home or center.
- Return to hotel and relax.
- Overnight stay in Bishnupur.
Day 2: Bishnupur – Mayapur (Approx. 210 km / 6 hrs)
- Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
- Drive through rural Bengal landscapes and riverine villages en route to Mayapur.
- Stop for refreshments or lunch (on direct payment) en route.
- Arrive in Mayapur and check-in at your hotel.
Sightseeing in Mayapur:
- Visit the sprawling ISKCON Chandrodaya Temple Complex, the global headquarters of the Hare Krishna movement.
- Offer prayers at Radha Madhava Temple, housing beautifully adorned deities of Radha and Krishna.
- Visit Prabhupada’s Pushpa Samadhi Mandir, a memorial for ISKCON founder Srila Prabhupada.
- Walk along the peaceful Ganges Ghats, experiencing local life and spirituality.
- Explore the Goshala (cow shelter) maintained by ISKCON.
- Witness the grandeur of the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium, under construction and set to be one of the largest temples in the world.
- Attend evening aarti and devotional chanting (kirtan) at the ISKCON temple (optional).
- Overnight stay in Mayapur.
Day 3: Mayapur – Kolkata (Approx. 130 km / 4 hrs)
- Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
Sightseeing in Mayapur (before return):
- Visit Yoga Pitha, believed to be the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the 15th-century saint and Vaishnavite reformer.
- Explore Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math, a peaceful ashram and temple by the riverside.
- Stroll through Mayapur Market, where you can find devotional items, books, and local crafts.
- Begin the drive back to Kolkata.
- Drop-off at your hotel in Kolkata.
- Private AC vehicle with professional driver for the entire tour
- 1 Night accommodation in Bishnupur & 1 Night accommodation in Mayapur (if option selected)
- English-speaking local guide for sightseeing (local guides in each city)
- Monument entrances and activity charges as mentioned
- Bottled drinking water in the car
- Government taxes
- Flight/train tickets
- Camera/video charges at monuments (if applicable)
- Meals unless mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, tips, etc.
- Gratuities and optional activities
- Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions