Shobhabazar Rajbari
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage Landmark / Historical PalaceTiming:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning hours for a peaceful walk or during the evenings of Durga Puja for the festive atmosphere. ...Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning hours for a peaceful walk or during the evenings of Durga Puja for the festive atmosphere.Special Events:
Durga Puja (October): The most grand event of the year, featuring traditional rituals like 'Sandhi Puja' and 'Bijoya Dashami' processions.
Bijoya Dashami: Witness the traditional 'Sindur Khela' and the immersion of the idol in the Ganges. ...Durga Puja (October): The most grand event of the year, featuring traditional rituals like 'Sandhi Puja' and 'Bijoya Dashami' processions.
Bijoya Dashami: Witness the traditional 'Sindur Khela' and the immersion of the idol in the Ganges.Best Photo Spots:
Thakurdalan Arches: The row of arches providing a perspective view of the courtyard is a classic shot for architecture lovers.
The Lion Statue: The stone lions at the entrance symbolize the royal status of the family and make for a great en...Thakurdalan Arches: The row of arches providing a perspective view of the courtyard is a classic shot for architecture lovers.
The Lion Statue: The stone lions at the entrance symbolize the royal status of the family and make for a great entry photo.
Iron Balconies: The intricate ironwork of the first-floor balconies offers a great backdrop for vintage-themed portraits.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Attend Durga Puja: Experience the unique 'Bonedi Barir Puja' where the idol is traditional and the rituals are centuries old.
Heritage Walk: Join a guided heritage walk of North Kolkata that often begins or ends at this Rajbari to understand the local 'Gully' culture.
Admire the Architecture: Study the intricate wood carvings on the doors and the unique design of the arches in the courtyard.
Explore Kumartuli: Walk to the nearby potters' colony, Kumartuli, to see how the idols are made from clay.
Taste Local Food: Visit the famous Mitra Cafe nearby to try traditional Bengali snacks like 'Brain Chop' and 'Fish Kabiraji'.
Photography: Capture the grandeur of the 'Nat Mandap' especially when it is ...Attend Durga Puja: Experience the unique 'Bonedi Barir Puja' where the idol is traditional and the rituals are centuries old.
Heritage Walk: Join a guided heritage walk of North Kolkata that often begins or ends at this Rajbari to understand the local 'Gully' culture.
Admire the Architecture: Study the intricate wood carvings on the doors and the unique design of the arches in the courtyard.
Explore Kumartuli: Walk to the nearby potters' colony, Kumartuli, to see how the idols are made from clay.
Taste Local Food: Visit the famous Mitra Cafe nearby to try traditional Bengali snacks like 'Brain Chop' and 'Fish Kabiraji'.
Photography: Capture the grandeur of the 'Nat Mandap' especially when it is decorated for festivals.
Visit the Temples: Explore the smaller family temples located within the periphery of the palace.
Hotels
● Astor Hotel
Address: 15, Shakespeare Sarani, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
Distance: 4.7
Details: The Astor Hotel is an iconic budget-to-mid-range heritage property that offers incredible value. While historically significant, it maintains clean an...
● Fairfield by Marriott
Address: 218, AJC Bose Rd, Beniapukur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017
Distance: 5.5
Details: Fairfield by Marriott offers a comfortable and efficient stay in the central part of the city. This mid-range hotel is designed to cater to modern tra...
● Guest Inn
Address: 22, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700009
Distance: 2.5
Details: Guest Inn is a small, budget-friendly lodge located in the vibrant heart of central Kolkata. It provides a straightforward stay for budget-conscious v...
● Hotel 1888
Address: 1, Harish Mukherjee Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020
Distance: 6
Details: Hotel 1888 provides a simple, clean, and affordable stay for travelers visiting Kolkata on a tight budget. Located reasonably close to the city center...
● Hotel Casa Fortuna
Address: 234/1, A.J.C. Bose Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020
Distance: 5
Details: Hotel Casa Fortuna is a charming boutique hotel located strategically in central Kolkata. It strikes a balance between professional service and a rela...
● Hotel Pulin
Address: 1, B.K. Paul Avenue, Shobhabazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700005
Distance: 0.5
Details: Hotel Pulin is a basic, budget-friendly accommodation located very close to the iconic Shobhabazar Rajbari. It is ideal for budget travelers who prior...
● ITC Sonar
Address: 1, JBS Haldane Ave, Tangra, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046
Distance: 8.5
Details: ITC Sonar is a unique luxury resort-style hotel inspired by the Bengal delta. It features lush water bodies, landscaped gardens, and architecture remi...
● Kenilworth Hotel
Address: 1 & 2, Little Russell St, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
Distance: 4.8
Details: The Kenilworth Hotel is a classic Kolkata establishment that offers a refined mid-range experience. Known for its heritage vibe and central location n...
● Taj Bengal
Address: 34B, Belvedere Rd, Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700027
Distance: 7.2
Details: Taj Bengal is an iconic luxury hotel nestled in the greenery of Alipore. It exudes grandeur with its magnificent lobby and artistic decor inspired by ...
● The Oberoi Grand
Address: 15, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, New Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700013
Distance: 4.5
Details: The Oberoi Grand is a historic heritage hotel in the heart of Kolkata. Known as the 'Grande Dame of Chowringhee', it offers colonial architecture comb...
Show AllRestaurants
● Allen's Kitchen
Address: 13, B.B. Ganguly Street, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700012
Distance: 2.1 KM
Details: Allen's Kitchen is a legendary eatery that has captured the hearts of Kolkata's residents with its exceptional deep-fried delicacies and old-school ch...
Food List: Ghee Fried Prawn Cutlet, Mutton Steak, Fish Fry, E...
● Bagicha Restaurant
Address: 147, Rabindra Sarani, Bara Bazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Distance: 1.8 KM
Details: Bagicha Restaurant offers a vibrant and welcoming dining experience in the bustling heart of Bara Bazar, known for its extensive North Indian and Mugh...
Food List: Biryani, Kolhapuri Chicken, Tandoori Roti, Mughlai...
● Chittaranjan Mishtanna Bhandar
Address: 219, Rabindra Sarani, Sovabazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700005
Distance: 0.3 KM
Details: Chittaranjan Mishtanna Bhandar is a historic destination for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting the heart of Shobhabazar. Renowned for its heritage, t...
Food List: Rasogolla, Madhuporko, Sandesh, Mishti Doi, Kheer ...
● Golbari
Address: 211, Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Shyambazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700004
Distance: 1.2 KM
Details: Golbari is a legendary culinary institution in Kolkata, best known for serving the city's most iconic and flavorful Kosha Mangsho. This restaurant has...
Food List: Kosha Mangsho, Mutton Curry, Paratha, Roti, Mutton...
● Kolkata Rajbari
Address: 56A, Hari Ghosh Street, Hatibagan, Kolkata, West Bengal
Distance: 0.5 KM
Details: Kolkata Rajbari, located near the historic Shobhabazar Rajbari, is a culinary gem that transports diners into a world of regal Bengali heritage. The a...
Food List: Daab Chingri, Kochi Pathar Jhol, Basanti Pulao, Fi...
Show AllInformation
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Why Famous:
First Durga Puja: It is internationally famous for starting the community-style Durga Puja in 1757, which set the template for modern celebrations.
Swami Vivekananda's Reception: It is a site of great national importance as it hosted the fi...First Durga Puja: It is internationally famous for starting the community-style Durga Puja in 1757, which set the template for modern celebrations.
Swami Vivekananda's Reception: It is a site of great national importance as it hosted the first formal reception for Vivekananda after his historic speech in America. -
Architecture:
Fusion Style: The architecture is a unique blend of traditional Bengali 'Aat-chala' style and colonial European elements. The most striking feature is the 'Nat Mandap' or the open courtyard with massive Tuscan-style columns and multifoil arches.
Read MoreFusion Style: The architecture is a unique blend of traditional Bengali 'Aat-chala' style and colonial European elements. The most striking feature is the 'Nat Mandap' or the open courtyard with massive Tuscan-style columns and multifoil arches.
Dimension and Layout: The palace occupies a significant area in the Shobhabazar locality. The 'Thakurdalan' is a large open-air space surrounded by two-storeyed buildings with iron-grille balconies. The pylon-like structures and the wooden shutters on the windows are characteristic of 18th-century North Kolkata residential architecture.How To Reach:
By Air: From Kolkata Airport (12 KM), take a yellow taxi or Uber to Shobhabazar.
By Train: The nearest major station is Howrah Junction (4 KM) or Sealdah (5 KM).
By Road: It is well connected via Central Av...By Air: From Kolkata Airport (12 KM), take a yellow taxi or Uber to Shobhabazar.
By Train: The nearest major station is Howrah Junction (4 KM) or Sealdah (5 KM).
By Road: It is well connected via Central Avenue. Any bus heading towards Shyambazar will pass near it.
By Local Transport: The most convenient way is to take the Kolkata Metro and get down at Shobhabazar Sutanuti station; the palace is a 5-minute walk from there.Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter (November to February): Best for exploring the narrow lanes of North Kolkata without the heat.
Festival Season: October is the best time to see the palace in its full glory during Durga Puja.
Time of Day...Winter (November to February): Best for exploring the narrow lanes of North Kolkata without the heat.
Festival Season: October is the best time to see the palace in its full glory during Durga Puja.
Time of Day: Early morning (7 AM to 9 AM) offers the best lighting and less crowd.Near Tourist Places:
1. Kumartuli (0. 5 KM), 2. Bagbazar Ghat (1 KM), 3. Marble Palace (2 KM), 4. Jorasanko Thakur Bari (2. 5 KM), 5. College Street (3 KM), 6. Nakhoda Mosque (3. 5 KM), 7. Howrah Bridge (4 KM), 8. Belur Math (via ferry - 6 KM), 9. Dakshineswar Temple (8 KM), 10. Pareshnath Jain Temple (3 KM).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The area is crowded; keep your belongings safe.
Packing: Wear light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear for walking.
Accommodation: Stay in North Kolkata heritage guest houses to get a...Health & Safety: The area is crowded; keep your belongings safe.
Packing: Wear light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear for walking.
Accommodation: Stay in North Kolkata heritage guest houses to get a feel of the old city.
Other: Be respectful of the family's privacy as it is still a private residence.
Reviews
FAQs
Ans:- It is located at 33 and 36 Raja Nabakrishna Street in North Kolkata. This area is the heart of "Old Calcutta" and is characterized by narrow lanes and heritage buildings. It is easily reachable via the Shobhabazar Sutanuti Metro Station, followed by a short walk or a rickshaw ride.Ans:- Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard and the public areas during the Durga Puja festival. During the rest of the year, it is polite to ask the staff or family members for permission. Professional videography or commercial shoots usually require formal approval and a fee paid to the trust.Ans:- Shobhabazar Rajbari is world-famous for its traditional Durga Puja, which was started by Raja Nabakrishna Deb in 1757. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious royal households in Kolkata, representing the peak of Bengali aristocracy and the cultural "Zamindari" heritage that flourished during the British colonial era.Ans:- The "Singhadwar" or Lion Gate is the main entrance to the Boro Rajbari. It features two large stone lions, which were symbols of power and authority in the 18th century. It is a popular spot for photography and serves as a landmark for tourists navigating the narrow Raja Nabakrishna Street.Ans:- The most convenient way is to take the Kolkata Metro and get off at Shobhabazar Sutanuti Station. From there, it is a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take a yellow taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Central Kolkata. The lanes are narrow, so parking a private car can be difficult.Ans:- The Nat Mandap is the open-air courtyard within the palace used for cultural performances and religious ceremonies. It is surrounded by impressive arches and columns. Historically, it was the venue for grand "Jatras" (folk theater) and classical music concerts attended by the elite of the British and Bengali society.Ans:- The palace features a large central courtyard known as the Nat Mandap, supported by massive Tuscan and Corinthian columns. It displays a blend of Moorish, Hindu, and colonial architectural styles. The "Singhadwar" or Lion Gate serves as the grand entrance, symbolizing the royal status of the Deb family.Ans:- The palace was built by Raja Nabakrishna Deb, who was a prominent aristocrat and a close associate of Lord Clive. He amassed wealth through his service to the British East India Company and played a key role in the Bengal Renaissance. He built two separate palaces for his adopted and biological sons.Ans:- The Puja here is steeped in history; it was first held to celebrate the British victory at the Battle of Plassey. Unlike modern community Pujas, it follows age-old "Bonedi Bari" traditions. The idol is traditionally made in the "Ek-chala" style (single backdrop), and the rituals are performed with ancient royal sobriety.Ans:- The Rajbari has hosted many legendary figures, including Lord Clive, Warren Hastings, and later, icons of the Bengal Renaissance like Swami Vivekananda and Rabindranath Tagore. In 1897, the first civic reception for Swami Vivekananda after his return from the Chicago Parliament of Religions was held in this very courtyard.Ans:- There are no official "on-site" government guides, but many heritage walk organizers in Kolkata include Shobhabazar Rajbari in their North Kolkata tours. Joining one of these walks is highly recommended to understand the deep historical context and the hidden stories of the royal family and the Bengal Renaissance.Ans:- There are two main palaces: the "Boro Rajbari" (at number 35/36) and the "Choto Rajbari" (at number 33). Both were built by Raja Nabakrishna Deb. The Boro Rajbari is the older one, featuring the iconic lions at the gate, while the Choto Rajbari was built later for his biological son.Ans:- There is no official entry fee to visit the public areas or attend the Durga Puja celebrations. It is a private heritage property that welcomes visitors as guests during the festival. However, tourists should respect the privacy of the residents who still live in the residential wings of the palace.Ans:- There is no strict dress code, but since it is a residence and a place of worship (especially during Puja), modest clothing is appreciated. If you are visiting during the Durga Puja, wearing traditional Indian attire like a Kurta or Saree will help you blend in with the festive atmosphere.Ans:- While parts of the palace are private residences, the "Thakurdalan" (courtyard and altar area) is often open to the public, especially during festivals. The best time to visit is during Durga Puja when the entire palace is decorated. For off-season visits, it is best to request permission at the gate.Kolkata Itineray And Cost:-
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