Cooch Behar Palace
The Victor Jubilee Palace, otherwise Cooch Behar Palace, is a towering example of imperial architecture and rich heritage amid Cooch Behar, West Bengal. Erected in 1887 by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan, this towering structure borrows extensively from traditional European architecture, most notably the Italian Renaissance. With its elegant columns, verandahs with arches, and ornate cornices, the palace is a stunning combination of Western taste and Indian royal legacy. The expansive lawns, corridors with symmetrical facades, and noble corridors provide a glimpse of the luxury which once was the experience of the Cooch Behar royal family. Visitors have to go to Cooch Behar Palace not only to behold its architectural beauty but also to explore a forgotten page of Bengal's royal history.
Whereas other heritage buildings that have withstood the passage of time have been neglected, this palace has been taken care of and partly turned into a museum that stores precious artefacts, photographs, and royal trinkets. Tourists get to traverse the durbar hall, the former court of the maharajas, and view the royal bedrooms, dressing rooms, and banquet halls – each telling a different story about aristocratic life. The palace is specifically fascinating for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and photographers, as each corner presents minute detailing and reminders of a bygone era. The overall experience of a trip to the Cooch Behar Palace is enlightening yet magical. The tranquillity of the well-laid-out surroundings coupled with the cultural richness of exhibits makes for a wholesome experience bereft of all temporal confines. The palace serves not only as a source of information about Cooch Behar's royal heritage but is also a haven from metropolitan mayhem in the form of a tranquil getaway, fitting perfectly into the itinerary of North Bengal.
Cooch Behar Palace is not a monument, but a living museum that retains the magnificence of the past. Its intrinsic historical significance, architectural splendour, and peaceful surroundings ensure it is a must-see for all who want to experience Bengal's royal past intensively and unforgettably.
Best time to visit : October – March
Opening & closing time:
It's open every day from 10 am – 5 pm (except Friday is a holiday).
Entry fee: Rs 250 per person
How to Reach Cooch Behar Palace :
By Air : The closest airport is Cooch Behar Airport, which is served primarily by small regional flights; for better connectivity, Bagdogra Airport (approximately 150 km away) is the best option.
By Train :Cooch Behar Railway Station has good connectivity to large cities such as Kolkata, Siliguri, and Guwahati, with comfortable and regular train facilities.
By Road :Cooch Behar can be reached through National Highway 31 and is well-linked by state-owned and private buses from Siliguri, Alipurduar, and Jalpaiguri.