Beyond Bishnupur: Exploring the Sareswar and Saileswar Temples
- Ranu Das
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Hidden in the quiet streets of Bishnupur, the Sareswar and Saileswar Temples show the deep religious and cultural roots of the town. These Shiva temples are simple in design but full of devotion, reflecting the true spirit of Bengal’s temple tradition. Away from busy tourist places, the temples offer a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can sit calmly and feel a strong connection with the past.
Located 8 km from Bishnupur, on the Bishnupur – Sonamukhi highway, the village of Dihar houses two ruined but majestic temples. Both the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are known as Sareswar and Saileswar. A Nandi Bull guards the entrance of Sareswar Temple. In the early part of the 19th century, then superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Eastern Region, took interest in the two temples. Today the Sareswar and Saileswar Temples are protected monuments under ASI and the area around the structure is fenced off and landscaped.
Standing on a small mound, the Sareswar and Saileswar Temples are built with laterite stone and date back to 1346 CE, during the reign of Malla king Prithvi Malla. The temples follow the Orissa Deul style of architecture, though the tall spires that once crowned them have collapsed over time. Traces of floral and geometric designs can still be seen on the outer walls, even though much of the decoration has faded due to natural weathering and long years of neglect. In front of the Sareswar Temple lies a stone Nandi bull, believed to be the reason behind the temple’s name, as “Sar” means bull. Sadly, the sculpture is heavily worn, with many fine details lost to erosion. Despite their ruined condition, the temples come alive during Shivaratri, when pilgrims from nearby areas gather here to offer prayers.
The temples are also interesting for their corbelled arches at their entrances. Forces of nature and centuries of human neglect had taken its toll on both the temples, the towering spires of both Sareswar and Saileswar have long collapsed, the Nandi and the intricate work on the walls of the temple are heavily eroded. However on a trip to Bishnupur, if time permits these two ruined temples should be part of the itinerary.
A fair is held here during Makar Sankranti, attracting local people and devotees. Mahashivratri is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm, making it one of the most important occasions at the temple. Another major fair takes place on Chaitra Sankranti, the last day of the Bengali month, and is known as the Gajan Mela. During this festival, around 5,000 to 6,000 devotees and ascetics observe special religious vows. The festival is celebrated for four days. The first day is called Rajbhata (or Rajavata). The second day is known as Raat Gajan, followed by Din Gajan on the third day. The fourth and final day is called Ashpanna. Since the temple was established by the Malla kings, devotees carry the idol of Sareswar to the royal household on the first day. On the last day, devotees end their vows by eating fish. Like other Gajan festivals, rituals such as burning dhuno, garan rituals, and processions are carried out here in a disciplined and orderly manner. Because of these celebrations, the temple is considered a must-visit pilgrimage destination.
Visitors staying in Bishnupur can easily reach the temples by toto or car. Bishnupur Gateway offers a convenient travel package covering Sareswar–Saileswar along with Jayrambati–Kamarpukur and Panchmura Tridhara Milan Mandir, making it easy to explore these important heritage and pilgrimage sites in one trip. For booking details, you may call 8927538747.
