Hazarduari Palace: A Unique Example of Murshidabad's Historical Architecture
Hazarduari Palace
Hazarduari Palace is one of the most popular historical tourist destinations in Murshidabad, West Bengal, India. The city of Murshidabad, once the capital of Bengal during the reign of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula, still carries the legacy of its glorious history, with the Hazarduari Palace standing as a testament to that era. This is not just a royal palace but a living record of the Nawabi history of Bengal. Built in 1837 during the reign of Nawab Humayun Jah, this palace, constructed in European architectural style, continues to mesmerize visitors. For history enthusiasts and travelers, Hazarduari Palace is a must-visit destination.
History of Hazarduari Palace
The term "Hazarduari" means "a thousand doors," of which there are 900 real doors and 100 secret ones. The construction of this grand palace began in August 1829 and was completed in December 1837. The palace was built under the supervision of British architect Colonel Duncan McLeod. It was primarily the administrative center for the Nawabs, and meetings and important discussions were held here during the British presence. The total cost to build this palace was 16.5 lakh gold coins.
Architectural Style and Attractions
The Hazarduari Palace combines Greek, Roman, and Indian architectural styles. This three-story palace spans approximately 41 acres, making it even larger than the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata.
Key Parts of the Palace:
🔹Royal Durbar Hall – This hall hosted the Nawabs' administrative activities and important meetings.
🔹 Extensive Library – The palace houses over 12,000 rare manuscripts and books.
🔹Hazarduari Museum – This museum preserves various historical artifacts, including weapons, furniture, clothing, and other items used by the Nawabs.
🔹Massive Staircase and Ornate Ceiling – These add to the overall beauty and grandeur of the palace.
Attractions in the Hazarduari Museum
Today, Hazarduari Palace functions as a museum, housing many historical artifacts used by the Nawabs, making it a valuable part of India's history. Some of the interesting items on display include:
1. Swords and weaponry used by the Nawabs
2. Ornate furniture crafted from gold and silver
3. Rare documents and letters from the British colonial era
4. Mughal-era artworks
5. Portraits of the Nawabs painted by world-famous artists
How to Reach?
By Train:
Hazarduari Palace is located just 2 kilometers from the Murshidabad Railway Station. From Kolkata, you can take direct trains such as the Lal Gola Express, Bhagirathi Express, or Hazarduari Express to Murshidabad. From there, you can easily reach the palace by toto or rickshaw.
By Road:
There are direct bus services available from Kolkata to Murshidabad. Buses can be caught from Esplanade or Dharamtala, and from the bus station, you can take a rickshaw or toto to reach Hazarduari. Alternatively, you can also drive to Murshidabad from Kolkata, which is about 221 kilometers away.
By Air:
The nearest airport is the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. From there, you can travel by train or bus to reach Murshidabad.
Best Time to Visit Hazarduari
The ideal time to visit is from October to March, as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
Tips for Tourists
1. Make sure to visit the museum during its designated hours.
2. Photography with cameras and mobile phones is prohibited inside, so enjoy the external beauty of the palace.
Important Information for Hazarduari Visitors
🔹Entry Fee: INR 25 for Indian citizens, INR 300 for foreign nationals.
🔹Museum Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Fridays.
🔹 Inside Photography: Not allowed; enjoy the architectural beauty instead.
🔹 Parking Fee:50 for those traveling by car.
Hazarduari Palace is not just a royal residence; it is a living testament to the Nawabi history of Bengal. The palace’s every corner tells the story of a rich and glorious past. If you're visiting Murshidabad, a visit to Hazarduari Palace should definitely be on your list.
Have you visited Hazarduari Palace? Share your experience with us in the comments!
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