Maa Mrinmoyee Temple — Attraction in West Bengal

Mrinmoyee Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is situated in Bishnupur at Bankura district. It is a very old temple and is rich in heritage. Durga Puja which is observed every year in this temple is over 1000 years old. It is unbelievable, but true. It gets this name because of the fact that the Malla dynasty used to rule then and it was under their governance that this temple came up. It is the oldest Durga Puja in Bengal and it still beholds its rich culture, in an undiluted way. History of the Mrinmoyee temple - Raghunath was crowned as the first king of Malla dynasty at Pradamnapur. King Jagat Malla shifted his capital from Pradamnapur to Bishnupur because of the latter’s better positioning with respect to safety. Bishnupur is mostly famous for its terracotta tradition, but it also proudly is the place where the oldest Durga Puja of the state happens. King Jagat Malla established the Mrinmoyee temple in 997 AD. Actually, Jagat Malla was ordered by Maa Mrinmoyee to build this temple, in his dreams. The idol is made of Ganga clay. The 57th generation of the Malla dynasty is...

Mrinmoyee Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is situated in Bishnupur at Bankura district. It is a very old temple and is rich in heritage. Durga Puja which is observed every year in this temple is over 1000 years old. It is unbelievable, but true. It gets this name because of the fact that the Malla dynasty used to rule then and it was under their governance that this temple came up. It is the oldest Durga Puja in Bengal and it still beholds its rich culture, in an undiluted way.

Raghunath was crowned as the first king of Malla dynasty at Pradamnapur. King Jagat Malla shifted his capital from Pradamnapur to Bishnupur because of the latter’s better positioning with respect to safety. Bishnupur is mostly famous for its terracotta tradition, but it also proudly is the place where the oldest Durga Puja of the state happens.

King Jagat Malla established the Mrinmoyee temple in 997 AD. Actually, Jagat Malla was ordered by Maa Mrinmoyee to build this temple, in his dreams. The idol is made of Ganga clay. The 57th generation of the Malla dynasty is...

Maa Mrinmoyee Temple, Bishnupur’s oldest temple in Bankura, is a serene haven dedicated to Goddess Durga. We visited on Nabami during Durga Puja at afternoon, and the festive vibe was electric yet soulful. The simple, ancient structure from 997 CE skips the terracotta flair of other local temples, but its understated charm draws you in. The idol of Maa Mrinmoyee, crafted from Ganga clay, is breathtaking—radiant with flowers and devotion, creating a deep spiritual pull.

The temple was lively with chants, incense, and colorful crowds, yet it felt peaceful. Devotees lined up orderly, and the puja rituals were mesmerizing. No photography inside, but the festive energy outside was perfect for soaking in the moment. Nearby stalls sold terracotta trinkets and sweets.

It’s 1-2 km from Bishnupur station, a quick ₹50 auto ride. Free entry, but expect crowds during Puja. Overall, 4.5/5. The divine idol and Nabami’s vibrant yet calm atmosphere make it a must-visit for spiritual seekers and...