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Hazarduari Palace: A Thousand Doors to Bengal's Past

Step back in time at Hazarduari Palace, Murshidabad: Explore a thousand doors and discover the opulent world of Bengal's Nawabs.

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The Hazarduari Palace, also known as the 'Palace of a Thousand Doors,' is a stunning 19th-century structure in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Built during the reign of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah, it showcases a blend of Italian and Greek architectural styles and now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent Nawabi lifestyle.

A brief summary to Hazarduari Palace & Museum

  • Siraj Ud Daulah Road, Murshidabad, Hazarduari, West Bengal, 742149, IN
  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Photography is not allowed inside the Hazarduari Palace Museum.
  • The palace is closed on Fridays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the palace complex.
  • Visit during the winter months (October to March) for pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Murshidabad railway station or nearby accommodations, the Hazarduari Palace is easily accessible by foot or cycle rickshaw. Cycle rickshaws are readily available and can take you directly to the palace entrance. The walk is approximately 3-4 kilometers and takes around 30-45 minutes. Negotiate the fare with the rickshaw driver beforehand, typically around INR 30-50.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses and auto-rickshaws are available from various points in Murshidabad to Hazarduari Palace. Check for buses heading towards Lalbagh or Kila Nizamat, as these will drop you off near the palace. Bus fares are typically INR 10-20 per person. Auto-rickshaws may charge INR 50-80 for a short trip to the palace.

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Discover more about Hazarduari Palace & Museum

Hazarduari Palace, located on the Kila Nizamat campus in Murshidabad, stands as a testament to the power and wealth of Bengal's Nawabs. Constructed in 1837 by architect Duncan Macleod, the palace is renowned for its thousand doors, of which 900 are real and 100 are false, designed to confuse intruders. The palace, originally known as Bara Kothi, is a three-story structure that spans 41 acres along the Bhagirathi River. Its architecture is a fusion of Italian and Greek styles, reflecting the cultural and political ties between the Nawabs of Bengal and the British. The palace served as a key administrative and ceremonial center, hosting royal gatherings and political meetings. In 1985, the Hazarduari Palace was converted into a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, oil paintings, furniture, rare books, and manuscripts, offering visitors a glimpse into Bengal's rich history and the Nawabi lifestyle. Highlights include Siraj-ud-Daula's prized swords, vintage cars owned by the Nawabs, and intricate handcrafted pieces made of ivory. Visitors can explore the palace's 20 galleries, which display approximately 4,742 antiquities, though only 1,034 are currently open to the public. The palace also features lush green gardens, adding to the beauty of the surroundings. Nearby attractions include the Nizamat Imambara, Katra Masjid, and Motijhil Park, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and architecture buffs.

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