Radha Shyam Temple

Radha Shyam Temple is a historic terracotta temple located in Bishnupur town in Bankura district, West Bengal. Built in 1758 by Malla King Chaitanya Singh, it is dedicated to Radha and Krishna. The temple is noted for its ek-ratna style with a single central tower and extensive terracotta ornamentation depicting mythological scenes. It is part of the Bishnupur group of temples known for distinctive Bengal temple architecture and is maintained as a protected monument.

Visitors can expect a compact ek-ratna temple with a square base, curved cornices and a single shikhara on top, built in laterite and brick with rich terracotta panels on outer walls depicting scenes from epics and daily life. The temple stands within the Bishnupur temple complex area surrounded by open grounds. Inside is a sanctum enshrining Radha and Krishna. The site is primarily for sightseeing, photography of exterior artwork, and quiet worship.

Built in 1758 CE by Malla King Chaitanya Singh, Radha Shyam Temple represents the later phase of Bishnupur terracotta temple architecture. The Malla dynasty ruled Bishnupur for several centuries and patronized the distinctive Bengal ek-ratna and pancha-ratna temple styles using laterite and terracotta. The temple is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India as part of the Bishnupur temple group.

The temple is dedicated to Radha and Krishna and reflects Vaishnavite tradition prominent in Bishnupur under Malla patronage. Its terracotta panels illustrate religious narratives, social life and decorative motifs, showcasing Bengal's craft heritage and serving as an important example of regional temple art and devotion.