Kashipur Panchakot Raj Palace, Purulia | A Complete Travel Guide

For lovers of history and tales of regal splendor, the Kashipur Panchakot Raj Palace in Purulia, West Bengal, offers a captivating journey back in time. This magnificent structure, though weathered by the years, stands as a proud testament to the region's rich architectural heritage and its royal past. Located approximately 34.6 kilometers from Purulia Railway Station, the palace is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the grandeur of a bygone era.

A Storied Past: The History of the Palace

The history of the Panchakot royal family is one of the oldest in the region. The dynasty's origins are traditionally traced back to Raja Damodar Sekhar Deo. However, the grand European-style palace that captures the imagination today was constructed much later.

Maharaja Neelmani Singh Deo is considered the first significant ruler of the Panchakot dynasty from Kashipur. The palace, as it stands now, was commissioned by his great-grandson, Maharaja Jyoti Prasad Singh Deo. In a fascinating blend of cultures, the construction, which is said to have commenced in 1916 and spanned 12 years, was carried out by the renowned Anglo-Indian firm, Martin and Burn Company, with the assistance of artisans brought from as far as China and the United States of America.

The palace was lavishly decorated to reflect the tastes of the time, featuring exquisite Belgian glass paintings, massive chandeliers, elegant marble statues, and taxidermy mounts of tigers, deer, and lions, showcasing the family's passion for hunting. The last reigning king of the dynasty was Maharaja Bhuvaneswari Prasad Singh Deo. Today, his descendants reportedly still reside in a part of the palace, maintaining a connection to their ancestral home.

Architectural Grandeur and Notable Attractions

The Kashipur Panchakot Raj Palace is a stunning example of Indo-European architecture. Its imposing facade, though now bearing the marks of time, still hints at its former glory.

• A Fusion of Styles: The palace's design is a remarkable synthesis of Western and local architectural traditions. The use of regional materials alongside imported decorations created a unique aesthetic that was both grand and rooted in its surroundings.

• The Temple of Durga: Within the palace complex lies a significant and ancient temple dedicated to Durga Mata. This temple becomes the heart of the palace during the annual Durga Puja festival. The royal family continues the tradition of celebrating the puja here, and the palace gates are thrown open to the public, drawing large crowds who come to witness the rituals and admire the palace.

• A Poetic Connection: In 1872, the celebrated Bengali poet, Michael Madhusudan Dutt, served the Kashipur Raj for a brief period. It was during his time here that he penned evocative pieces such as “Panchcot Giri,” “Panchcot Giri Biday Sangeet,” and “Pancotoshya Rajosree,” forever linking his literary genius to the legacy of the palace.

Exploring the Palace: Inside and Out

A visit to the Kashipur Raj Palace is an experience of contrasts.

The Exterior: The palace is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush forests, offering a picturesque landscape. Well-maintained gardens with vibrant greenery frame the front of the palace, making it an ideal spot for photography and leisurely strolls. The serene environment allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the Purulia region.

The Interior: Upon entering through the large iron gates, one is greeted by the Durga temple on the right. The main palace building is surrounded by a series of ancillary rooms and structures. While many of these are in a state of disrepair, with nature reclaiming the spaces, they add to the romantic and melancholic charm of the palace. The intricate carvings and traditional paintings on the walls that remain tell silent stories of a glorious past.

Plan Your Visit:

Opening Hours: The palace is generally accessible to visitors daily, from morning until evening. However, it is advisable to visit during daylight hours.

• Saturday - Friday: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Entry Fees: There is no official entry fee to visit the palace complex, making it accessible to all.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Kashipur is well-connected by road from Purulia town. The nearest bus stop is the Kashipur bus stand, from where you can easily hire a local taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the palace.

• By Train: The nearest major railway station is Adra Junction, which is about 15 km away and well-connected to major cities. Kashipur Railway Station is closer but has fewer connections. From either station, you can find local transport to the palace.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) in Durgapur, approximately 60 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Kashipur.

Distances to Kashipur Raj Palace:

• From Purulia Railway Station: Approximately 34.6 km.

• From Joychandi Pahar: Approximately 11.9 km.

Where to Stay and Eat:

While there are no hotels directly within the palace complex, several options are available in the nearby areas of Kashipur and Raghunathpur.

Nearby Hotels:

• Joychandi Hill Resort: A popular choice for tourists visiting the region, offering modest cottages and dorms with mountain views.

• Mayaban Village Hotel and Resort: Located in a serene village setting, this resort offers a peaceful retreat.

• Olive Branch Farm: A farm-stay experience for those looking to connect with nature.

• Raj Restaurant Cum Hotel: A budget-friendly option for travelers.

Nearby Restaurants:

• HOTEL RADHIKA A COMPLETE FAMILY RESTAURANT: A local eatery in Kashipur offering a variety of dishes.

• The Hot Momo (Kashipur): A great spot to enjoy delicious momos and other snacks.

• Mom's Kitchen | Best Restaurant In Purulia: Located in Raghunathpur, this restaurant is known for its quality food and service.

• Aamantran Restaurant: A family-friendly restaurant offering a range of culinary delights.

Nearby Attractions:

Enhance your trip to Kashipur by exploring other places of interest in the Purulia district:

• Garpanchkot: The ruins of another fort of the Panchakot dynasty, set amidst hills and forests.

• Joychandi Pahar: A popular spot for rock climbing and trekking, offering panoramic views.

• Ayodhya Hills: A beautiful plateau with forests, waterfalls, and tribal villages.

• Baranti Lake: A serene reservoir perfect for picnics and enjoying sunsets.

• Murguma Dam: A picturesque dam offering boating facilities.

• Surulia Eco Park: A great place for nature lovers, often referred to as the "Deer Park."

Tips for a Memorable Visit:

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Purulia and the Kashipur Raj Palace is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.

• Respectful Exploration: As parts of the palace are still inhabited and some structures are in a fragile condition, it is important to be respectful and not venture into restricted areas.

• Photography: While photography is generally allowed, it's courteous to be mindful, especially during the Durga Puja festivities when the palace is crowded.

• Local Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to savor the local Bengali cuisine at the nearby restaurants in Kashipur.

• Be Prepared: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking. Carry a water bottle, snacks, and any necessary medications. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is advisable, especially during the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Que-01: Is Kashipur Panchakot Raj Palace safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, it is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings.

Que-02: Is photography permitted inside the palace?

Ans: Yes, photography is generally allowed in the outer areas of the palace. Special consideration should be taken during Durga Puja.

Que-03: When is the best time to visit?

Ans: The winter season, from October to March, offers the most pleasant weather for visiting Purulia.

Que-04: Do I need permission to enter the palace?

Ans: While the provided text mentions needing police permission, this is generally not required for tourists visiting the main accessible areas. The palace is largely open to visitors.

Que-05: Parking of Vehicle available?

Ans: Yes, parking of vehicle available and no parking fee, tourist can park car free of cost.