Inside Cooch Behar Rajbari: Timings, Photos & History
There are some places that make you pause. The Cooch Behar Rajbari Palace is one of them.
With its red-brick grandeur, symmetrical domes, and lush green lawns, this royal palace in West Bengal feels like something out of Europe — but it's right here in India. If you’ve ever dreamt of wandering through the corridors of a king’s world, let me take you there.
Introduction to the Cooch Behar Palace
Known as the Cooch Behar Rajbari, this palace was built in 1887 by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan. Inspired by the Buckingham Palace in London, it reflects both European elegance and royal Indian pride.
But what makes it special isn't just its architecture — it's the silence in its halls, the stories trapped in its walls, and the way it connects you to a forgotten time.
Architecture and Interiors of the Rajbari
The Cooch Behar Palace is built in the Italian Renaissance style, which means symmetry, clean lines, and big dramatic domes. The main dome at the center stands 124 feet tall — a true jaw-dropper.
Walk inside and you’ll find:
Ornate Darbar Halls (audience rooms)
Grand staircases
Arched corridors lined with marble
Delicate floral motifs on the ceilings
Some rooms still preserve portraits of the royal family, old maps, and museum displays showing the lifestyle of the Maharajas.
Rajbari Park & Gardens
Right next to the palace is the Rajbari Park — a soft, green carpet of peace. It’s perfect for:
Lazy walks after your palace tour
Photo ops with fountains and floral beds
Watching locals sip tea or kids chasing butterflies
It’s like stepping out of a painting and into a dream.
Opening Hours and Entry Fees
Here’s what you need to know before you go:
🕰️ Opening Time:
Every day (except Fridays): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Ticket Price:
Indians: ₹25
Foreigners: ₹300
Students/children: Often discounted with ID
💡 Tip: Get there early in the morning or just before sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
Rajbari History and the Royal Legacy
The royal family of Cooch Behar once ruled this region with dignity and grace. Maharaja Nripendra Narayan was not only a patron of art and architecture but also an early voice for education and women's rights.
One fascinating fact? His daughter, Gayatri Devi, became one of the most iconic queens of Jaipur.
The palace may no longer hold court, but the legacy of the royal family lives on — through its columns, photos, and in the hearts of locals.
🗺️ What to Bring
A fully charged phone/camera 📸 (trust me, you’ll take dozens of pics)
Water bottle & light snacks
A little curiosity — this place rewards it
💛 Final Thoughts
The Cooch Behar Rajbari is more than just a tourist spot — it’s a bridge between Bengal’s royal past and your present journey. Whether you’re into architecture, quiet corners, or just want that one “WOW” place to post on Instagram, this palace will win your heart.
If you’re planning a full trip to the area, check out my full Cooch Behar Travel Guide: Palaces, Temples, and Local Gems for more adventures!
