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Experience Culture Through Local Attractions in Murshidabad Along with the Hazarduari Palace

The historical capital of Bengal’s Nawabs, Murshidabad, offers a lively cultural experience. This town has architectural marvels, religious sites, and streets steeped in history. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a traveller wishing to explore a different culture, this guide will take you through the Hazarduari Palace and other must-see local sights in Murshidabad.

Hazarduari Palace – The Crown Jewel of Murshidabad

You must visit the Hazarduari Palace. It is a majestic building, situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, and it represents the grandeur of Bengal’s Nawabi. The palace is a marvel of Indo-European architecture, constructed in 1837 by Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah under the guidance of architect Duncan MacLeod.

Hazarduari, which translates to “a palace with a thousand doors,” does indeed have 1000 doors, but only 100 of them are actual; the others were ingeniously constructed to deceive trespassers. The Nawabs’ concern for security during political unrest is demonstrated by their calculated design.

Explore the Hazarduari Museum’s History

The palace is presently run as a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India, which displays a wide range of rare artefacts, antique weapons, and exquisite paintings. These relics reveal the Hazarduari history.

Key Highlights of the Museum:

European Chandeliers: After the chandelier at Buckingham Palace, the Durbar Hall is home to a spectacular chandelier made in Britain that is said to be the second-largest chandelier in the world.
Weapon Collection of the Nawab: The collection of swords, guns, and other weapons used by the Nawabs and their men is known as the Nawabs’ Weapons Collection.
Historical Manuscripts & Documents: Rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts provide valuable insights into Murshidabad’s rich history and cultural legacy.
Paintings & Portraits: Impressive depictions of British officials and Bengal’s colonial heritage are shown through nawabs.

Check out the Hazarduari Complex at Lalbagh.

In addition to the palace, the Murshidabad Hazarduari complex has the magnificent Nizamat Imambara, one of the biggest Shia congregational halls in India. It was constructed to replace the old Imambara, which was destroyed by fire in 1846. The Clock Tower, a British-era building that remains a tall reminder of the colonial past, is located just outside the palace.

Visitor Information

Location: Lalbagh, Murshidabad
Hazarduari opening time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
Hazarduari Palace Ticket Price: ₹5 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners)

If you’re considering a visit, please remember that Friday is Hazarduari’s closed day. Make appropriate plans to ensure you don’t miss this historical marvel now that you know about the Hazarduari Palace opening time, closing time, and day off.

Did you know?

Other historic buildings, such as the Nizamat Imambara and the Lalbagh Hazarduari area, surround the Murshidabad Hazarduari complex and enhance your cultural experience.

The Katra Mosque: An Icon of Mughal Design

The Katra Mosque was constructed in 1724 by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan; it’s one of the epitomes of Bengal’s rich Islamic past. The mosque is the Nawab’s tomb and has magnificent domes and minarets. This location features a great fusion of Mughal and Persian architectural styles.

The Forgotten Palace of Nashipur Rajbari

The Nashipur Rajbari is still a hidden jewel, even though the Hazarduari Palace Murshidabad is a great attraction and receives more tourists. Nashipur Rajbari, a palace owned by the Nashipur royal family, provides a glimpse into the luxurious ways of life of the local nobility. A temple and courtyards where cultural events are occasionally hosted. These are also the features of the Murshidabad Palace.

Kathgola Palace: A Blend of Art and Trade

A visit to Murshidabad Palace would not be complete without a visit to Kathgola Palace, which was constructed as a leisure haven for wealthy Jain merchants who were instrumental in Bengal’s trade with the British and the Mughals. The palace has a beautiful garden and European-style architecture.

Jain Temple: A Spiritual Location

It is located next to Kathgola Palace, a magnificent building with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere that reflects Murshidabad’s wide cultural and religious influences.

Cultural Exposure at Palm Aqua Resort

After exploring the rich history of Murshidabad, you can relax at a great location. Where? It’s the Palm Aqua Resort & Spa. You can enjoy genuine Bengali hospitality and a lot of delicacies. This resort is the perfect addition to your Murshidabad trip, ensuring a balance of history, culture, and leisure. Whether you prefer indulging in traditional cuisine or unwinding by the water, this resort blends history, culture, and leisure. As a strong advocate of responsible tourism, Palm Aqua Resort offers a tranquil and captivating experience, where heritage, nature, and relaxation come together—making it a perfect addition to your Murshidabad journey.

Discover Murshidabad in a Whole New Way

A stay at Palm Aqua Resort is more than just a vacation; it’s a journey through time. You may explore the bustling bazaars, admire the architectural marvels of Hazarduari Palace Murshidabad, and marvel at the beauty of traditional crafts like Murshidabad silk weaving and kasha work. If you want to listen to music, don’t miss the opportunity to witness Murshidabad’s rich transitional music culture.

The Ideal Weekend Escape from Kolkata

Organising a trip from Kolkata for the weekend? We offer the ideal package for you, whether your goals are leisure, adventure, or cultural enrichment. Select from:

Day Tour Package: A quick but worthwhile trip to Murshidabad is included in the day tour package.
Weekend Tour Package: Take advantage of this package to explore mediaeval temples, Murshidabad Hazarduari, and other locations.
Family Fun Package: This includes activities for all ages in a beautiful riverfront setting.

Enjoy the idehttps://palmaquaresortnspa.in/itinerary/al fusion of luxury and history at Palm Aqua Resort & Spa, take in the splendour of Murshidabad Palace, and watch breathtaking sunsets by the Bhagirathi River!

With its historical palaces, grand mosques, and vibrant culture, Murshidabad offers a fascinating journey through time. Whether you’re here for Hazarduari Palace’s history or the lesser-known heritage sites, this city promises an unforgettable experience.

Explore the history of Murshidabad and Hazarduari Murshidabad West Bengal

Murshidabad was a prosperous city in the 18th century. It housed the state’s treasury, revenue office, and court in addition to the hereditary Nawab of Bengal. The city of Murshidabad was multicultural. The Battle of Plassey (Palashi in Bengali, 1757), which was never fought but had immense consequences in Indian history, is innately linked to the town of Murshidabad.

Around the city, European businesses operated factories. They conducted business, including the Danish East India Company, the British East India Company, the French East India Company, and the Dutch East India Company. One of Murshidabad’s main products was silk. In addition, the city was a hub for Hindustani classical music, ivory sculptors, and Mughal paintings in the Murshidabad style.

For his successors, Murshid Quli Khan turned Murshidabad into a capital city with an effective administrative infrastructure. He constructed the Katra Masjid, a magnificent mosque, along with a palace and caravanserai. The mosque was close to the main military installation, which served as the eastern entrance to the city.

The vast complex is known as Farrabagh (Garden of Joy), which features canals, fountains, flowers, and fruit trees. The third Nawab Shuja-ud-Din Muhammad Khan funded the building of a new palace and military base, a new gateway, the revenue office, a public audience hall (durbar), a private chamber, the treasury, and a mosque.

The Architectural Marvels of Murshidabad
Murshidabad’s historical significance is clearly shown by its architectural magnificence.

A Relic of Mughal Glory, the Katra Masjid

Katra Masjid, built by Murshid Quli Khan, the man who founded Murshidabad, is a mosque and his ultimate resting place. It was built in 1723, it features intricate calligraphy and tall minarets, a hallmark of Mughal design. The mosque, which was once a hub of Islamic scholarship, is still a stunning example of architecture that provides insight into the historical significance of the city.

The Lost Palace at Nashipur Rajbari

Another masterpiece worth seeing is Nashipur Rajbari, which is sometimes overlooked in favor of Hazarduari Murshidabad, West Bengal. This palace, which was constructed by Raja Kirti Chandra Singha, features marble pillars and expansive courtyards, typical of Indo-European architecture. An old shrine devoted to the Goddess Durga enhances the palace’s cultural value.

Khosh Bagh

The lovely garden area, over eight acres, is a cemetery. Along with Siraj-ud-Daulah, his wife Lutfannesha, and other Nawab family members, it contains the grave of Nawab Alivardi Khan. This is located across the Bhagirathi River. To get to Khosh Bagh, you must take a ferry over the river.

A Combination of Trade Heritage and Luxury at Kathgola Palace

A few kilometers away from Murshidabad, Kathgola Palace is a reminder of the area’s flourishing trade history. This magnificent palace complex was constructed in the 18th century by Jain businessman Dhanpat Singh Dugar to accommodate Muslim and European tradesmen who traveled to Murshidabad for business. The palace features stunning Bengali and Rajasthani architectural influences and is encircled by lush gardens and man-made lakes.

In addition to its commercial importance, Kathgola served as a haven for affluent traders. Adinath Temple, a prominent Jain shrine with a black stone deity of Bhagwan Adinath, is also accessible from the castle.

A Forgotten Commercial Center- Cossimbazar Palace

Once an active commercial center, Cossimbazar Palace is a memory of Murshidabad’s heyday. When European traders, particularly the British, Dutch, and French established factories to trade silk, muslin, and spices in the 17th and 18th centuries, Cossimbazar was a vital port town. The palace was owned by the Roy family, influential zamindars who had a significant impact on Murshidabad’s political and economic landscape. The palace, which was constructed using a combination of Indo-European architectural elements, has expansive gardens, elaborately carved pillars, and large courtyards. Important dignitaries, traders, and colonial officials used to reside there. Cossimbazar Palace’s historical appeal and regal past continue to draw tourists even though Murshidabad has declined as a commerce hub.

Knowing About the Symbol of Grandeur- Hazarduari Palace

The Bara Kothi was the previous name of Hazarduari Palace. With its stunning European-style architecture, the Hazarduari Murshidabad West Bengal palace, which translates to “Palace of a Thousand Doors,” dominates the landscape. In the nineteenth century, Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah constructed it. From 1824 to 1838, he served as the Nawab of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.

The Hazarduari Palace and Imambara are listed as ASI Listed Monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India, which is cited in the List of Monuments of National Importance in West Bengal. The palace is called Hazarduari; Hazar means “thousand” and Duari means “the one with doors”; hence, the appellation “the one with a thousand doors” is the sum of the numbers. To confound invaders, this three-story building has 900 fake doors with 114 real ones. The palace is now a museum that displays the Nawabs’ possessions, which include antiquities, furniture, precious paintings, and more. The chandelier and mirror are the most well-known.

A Lavish Stay at Palm Aqua Resort Amidst History

Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa in Berhampur, Murshidabad is a large weekend resort close to Kolkata that is ideal for family vacations. With exciting activities, stunning sunset views along the Baghirathi River, a rich indigenous culture, and a historic Nawabi history, this resort is your perfect getaway. As advocates for responsible travel, we offer you the best eco-resort experience possible for a weekend getaway. With its modern amenities, Palm Aqua Resort and Spa offers visitors a peaceful retreat while keeping them near Murshidabad’s fascinating history. It is easily accessible from Hazarduari Murshidabad, West Bengal, making it the ideal choice for history enthusiasts seeking comfort and convenience.

Let’s check out the luxurious amenities offered by Palm Aqua Resorts and Spa.

Suites & Rooms: Relish Elegance and Magnificence

Savour the splendor of Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa, where our roomy suites and rooms provide the ideal balance of style and comfort. Each accommodation offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with views of the shimmering pool and verdant surroundings. Our lodgings guarantee a restorative experience, whether you’re looking for an opulent retreat or a weekend vacation from Kolkata.

Enjoy contemporary conveniences like streaming services, laundry facilities, and refrigerators in addition to lovely courtyards, tasteful wood floors, and well-thought-out interior design. Every element is designed to satisfy our valued guests’ needs, guaranteeing a memorable stay.

Room Categories:

Premium Deluxe Room
Nawabi Suites

Fine Culinary Experience

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa, where our talented chefs create delicious treats with love and precision. Every meal is a masterpiece, ranging from genuine Bengali, Murshidabad, and Nawabi spices to a fascinating assortment of Indian and other cuisines.

In the peaceful settings of our village-style resort close to Kolkata, enjoy a distinctive eating experience. Every bite is a perfect fusion of flavour and tradition, whether it is a signature dish made just for you or a thoughtfully prepared meal for your family.

Tours & Activities: Take Part in Culture, Relive History

Just a 3.5-hour journey from Kolkata, take a vacation to a prestigious weekend destination where nature and history collide. Our meticulously planned one to two-day trips shows you Murshidabad’s magnificent Nawabi legacy, which includes famous sites like Plassey and Hazarduari.

Discover historical and religious monuments that tell stories of a golden past, or lose yourself in the beautiful melodies of Baul nights for a more profound cultural experience. Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa provides an ideal fusion of luxury and discovery, whether you want leisure or adventure.

The Special Facilities

Outdoor Pool– Enjoy the tranquil retreat at Palm Aqua’s famous on-site pool.
Outdoor Gaming Area- Their Gaming Zone, which is surrounded by a creatively designed space that blends in with the resort’s great architecture, offers endless amusement.
Kids’ Play Space– The space fosters creativity and outdoor adventure with its many adorable playthings including a swing, see-saw, and more.
The Bar– Relax and enjoy exciting cocktails in the imaginatively created bar.
Gym- With a fully furnished, contemporary gym set, you can make the most of your trip without sacrificing your fitness objectives.
Family Restaurant- Serving you delicious Bengali, Murshidabad, Indian, and international dishes that are seasoned with love and precision is our chefs’ specialty.
Rooftop banquet- Along with delicious food, our rooftop banquet offers breathtaking scenery.
7D movie theatre- Experience an enthralling cinematic journey in the opulent surroundings of nature with our cutting-edge 7D movie theatre.
Barbecue- Enjoy the delight of dining al fresco with loved ones while taking in the beautiful surroundings and the stars.
Folk dancing, singing- Visit the region’s diverse cultural and historical heritage or lose yourself in the enchantment of Baul music at nighttime singing-dancing performances with local folk performers around the fire.
Boating with Snacking- Savour a calm boat ride while receiving free food.
Rain Dance- Enter the Rain Dance Floor, where the perfect dance ecstasy is created by a symphony of music and water.
Banquet Halls- Your fantasies will come true in our banquet halls. This is a fantastic area where you may arrange your BIG events.
Narmada Shiva Temple- Amidst the splendor of nature, Palm Aqua’s Narmada Shiva Temple provides a calm and serene setting for spiritual contemplation.
Free WiFi- You can use the free Wi-Fi service for smooth connectivity anywhere in the resort.

The Palm Aqua resort is more than just these mentioned things. Any special event, even a grand wedding, can be planned here. This weekend getaway, only 200 kilometers from Kolkata, is undoubtedly a life-changing resort experience.

Every area of this city, from the tranquil Palm Aqua Resort to the magnificent Hazarduari Murshidabad, West Bengal, narrates a tale of grandeur. A trip to Murshidabad is more than just a journey—it’s an experience rich in history. A Short Gateway to Murshidabad is an experience that transports you back in time while offering contemporary luxury.

Murshidabad Tour Guide- A Complete Guide on Travel & History

West Bengal is home to the historic city of Murshidabad. Are you a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just looking to relax? Then, this Murshidabad tour guide will assist you in collecting all the information you need for your journey to the “Island of Cossimbazar.” From historical sites to a tranquil landscape and a relaxing stay, Murshidabad has more to offer.

Little Bit of Murshidabad’s History

It served as Bengal’s capital during the Mughal era. Padma lies at the north and river Bhagirathi lies at the west and south and to the east is Jalangi. Murshidabad, formerly known as Muksudabad, served as the last capital of independent Bengal. Furthermore, it was renamed in honor of Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, the Diwan of Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha. The brief history of Murshidabad reflects its role as a powerful center during the Nawab era, leaving behind stunning architecture that we will explore.

Places to Visit in Murshidabad

When looking for a place to visit Murshidabad, numerous historical and cultural landmarks bring in visitors from all over the globe. Among the most frequently visited sites in Murshidabad are:

Hazarduari Palace: This exquisite 19th-century building stands out for its unique architecture. As of right now, this is a museum. People consider the Hazarduari Palace Museum to be the largest site museum of the Archaeological Survey of India.

Bara Imambara: It is another name for Nizamat Imambara. The last independent nawab of Bengal, Siraj ud Dulla, laid the foundation stone for this magnificent Imambara. It is among India’s largest and grandest Imambaras. Visitors can enter this building only during Muharram.

Katra Mosque: It was constructed between 1723 and 1724. The mosque below has a set of stairs that lead to Murshid Quli Khan’s grave. It offers a peaceful environment for introspection and prayer.

Moti Jheel: The lake is beautiful. Ghasseti Begum’s husband, Nawazesh Mohammad, excavated this lovely lake in the shape of a horseshoe. At present, there is a nice park with a light and music show.

Kathgola Palace: Built in 1873, Kathgola Palace is situated in the town’s northernmost part. The premises have a small zoo, a Jain temple, and a Hanuman temple.
You can visit this blog to learn about further historic sites that you might be interested in. Murshidabad is also well-known for its lively local markets, which sell silk, handicrafts, and other items.

Where Can You Stay in Murshidabad?

Finding a tranquil location for lodging in Murshidabad is vital to a good journey. If you’re looking for a lavish retreat or a cozy hotel in Murshidabad, there are many options available based on your preferences. Luxurious and reasonably priced lodging options are available, some of which have views of the river and are close to historic landmarks.
There are a few resorts near Kolkata that provide a calm haven away from the bustle of the city if you’re one of those people looking for a quiet, laid-back, and natural getaway. There’s a resort in Berhampore Murshidabad which offers the ideal blend of comfort and nature.
The Ideal Retreat: Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa

Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa is your luxurious retreat where you can relax and take in all that Murshidabad has to offer which you read about in this Murshidabad tour guide. It is located in Berhampore, Murshidabad. It’s a weekend resort near Kolkata. Its location makes it the ideal retreat for corporate groups, families, and friends. It is more about the experience than the luxury this resort provides.

Facilities at Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa

Take a look at the amenities this resort offers though there are more which you can check out here:
Outdoor Pool
Enjoy the quiet oasis that is Palm Aqua’s popular on-site pool.
Gaming Zone
In the peace of nature, one can engage in various games and other pastimes.
7D Cinema Hall
Experience a fascinating cinematic journey in the luxuriant embrace of nature.
Besides the amenities, it is an excellent location to enjoy and organize events like destination weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, and outdoor events at the Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa.
Wrapping up

Murshidabad is much more significant than solely its history. Hence, this Murshidabad Tour Guide includes all the information you need to plan the ideal vacation, from touring historic sites to booking a room at a resort in Berhampore Murshidabad like Palm Aqua Resorts & Spa.