Bishnupur Mela
A Fair Celebrating Terracotta and Crafts
Discover the rich artistic heritage of Bishnupur at this annual winter fair, which showcases the region's famous terracotta crafts, Baluchari sarees, and classical music.
Late December
Dec 27-31 (approx)
Annual fair and cultural programs
📅
When
Late December
📍
Where
Bishnupur, Bankura District
🎨
Focus
Handicrafts & Culture
🛍️
Must-Buy
Terracotta Items, Silk Sarees
About Bishnupur Mela
A Showcase of Malla Kingdom's Legacy
The Bishnupur Mela is a vibrant fair that brings to life the artistic traditions of the ancient Malla kingdom. Held in the historic town of Bishnupur, the fair is a fantastic opportunity to witness the skills of local artisans and purchase their creations directly.
The festival ground buzzes with activity, featuring stalls selling the iconic terracotta pottery and sculptures, intricately woven Baluchari silk sarees, and Dokra metalwork. Evenings are filled with performances of the Bishnupur Gharana of classical music and various folk traditions.
Fair Highlights
What to See and Do
🏺
Terracotta Crafts
See and buy a wide range of terracotta items, from the famous Bankura horse to decorative tiles.
👘
Baluchari Sarees
Watch weavers at work and purchase beautiful silk sarees with mythological motifs.
🎶
Classical Music
Listen to performances of the Bishnupur Gharana, a unique school of Hindustani classical music.
🎭
Folk Performances
Enjoy performances of folk music and dance from the Bankura region.
Festival Timeline
A Cultural Extravaganza
All Days
All Days
Handicraft Stalls
Artisan stalls are open throughout the day for browsing and shopping.
Evenings
Evenings
Cultural Programs
The main stage hosts classical and folk music and dance performances every evening.
Fairground Guide
Navigating the Mela
Mela Ground
Bishnupur town
The central location for all stalls and the main performance stage.
Cultural Elements
The Arts of Bishnupur
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Terracotta Art
🎶
Bishnupur Gharana
👘
Baluchari Weaving
Fair Foods
Local Tastes
🍚
Posto Bora
🍮
Mihidana & Sitabhog
📋 Quick Planning Guide
- Event DatesLate December
- LocationBishnupur, Bankura
- Combine withA tour of the terracotta temples
🚌 Transportation Guide
- TrainBishnupur is well-connected by train from Kolkata.
- Car/BusA 4-5 hour journey from Kolkata.
💡 Essential Tips
- Book accommodation in Bishnupur well in advance.
- Carry cash, as digital payments may not be available at all stalls.
- Bargain politely at the handicraft stalls.
- Don't miss the evening cultural programs.