Have you ever heard of Neermahal, the largest water palace in India? If not, you are missing out on one of the most amazing and underrated attractions in the country. Neermahal, which means “water palace” in Bengali, is a stunning structure that stands in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake in Tripura, a northeastern state of India. It was built by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur in 1930 as a summer residence and a cultural venue for his royal family.
Inspired by Hindu and Mughal styles, Neermahal combines elegance and grandeur with a touch of mystery and romance. It is the only water palace in eastern India and one of the two in the country, the other being Jal Mahal in Jaipur.
In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and attraction of Neermahal and why you should add it to your bucket list. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to admire and enjoy at Neermahal.
History of Neermahal
Neermahal was the brainchild of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the 19th king of the Manikya dynasty that ruled Tripura for centuries. He was a visionary ruler who modernized his state and introduced many reforms and developments. He was also fond of art and culture and wanted to create a palace that would reflect his taste and personality.
He chose Rudrasagar Lake as the site for his palace, as it was a natural reservoir that provided water for irrigation and fishing. He hired a British company to design and construct the palace, which took nine years to complete. The total cost of the project was around 10 lakh rupees at that time, which was a huge amount.
The palace was intended to be used as a summer retreat for the king and his family, as well as a venue for hosting cultural events and performances. The king invited many artists, musicians, dancers, and poets to showcase their talents at Neermahal. He also organized boat races and water festivals on the lake to entertain his guests and subjects.
Neermahal witnessed many glorious moments in its heyday, but it also faced some challenges and threats. During the Second World War, it was used as a shelter for refugees from Myanmar (then Burma). It also suffered some damage from natural calamities and human negligence over the years. However, it was restored and renovated by the government of Tripura in 1996 with the help of the Archaeological Survey of India. Today, it is a protected monument and a popular tourist attraction.
Architecture of Neermahal
Neermahal is a masterpiece of architecture that showcases the fusion of Hindu and Mughal styles. It covers an area of 5.3 hectares and has a total of 24 rooms. It is divided into two parts: Andar Mahal (inner palace) and open-air theatre. The Andar Mahal was the residential area for the royal family, while the open-air theatre was used for cultural events and performances.
The palace is made of marble and sandstone and has a red-and-white color scheme. It has four domed minars at each corner and several smaller ones along the roofline. It also has arched windows and doorways that add to its beauty and charm. The palace is connected to the mainland by two bridges: one on the east side and one on the west side.
One of the most striking features of Neermahal is its reflection on the lake water, which creates a mesmerizing effect. The palace looks especially stunning at night when it is illuminated by lights. The lake also adds to the scenic beauty of the palace, as it is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers.
Neermahal is often compared with other water palaces in India or elsewhere, such as Jal Mahal in Jaipur or Lake Palace in Udaipur. However, Neermahal has its own distinct identity and charm that sets it apart from others. It is not only larger than Jal Mahal but also more elaborate than Lake Palace. It is also more secluded and less crowded than other water palaces, which gives it a sense of tranquility and exclusivity.
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Best Time to Visit & How to Reach
According to my web search, the best time to visit Neermahal is from September to November, when the monsoon has just finished and the weather is pleasant.
You can also enjoy the Neermahal Water Festival in August, which is a cultural extravaganza that features boat races, fireworks, and folk performances.
Neermahal is open from 9 AM to 6 PM (Mar to Sep) and 9 AM to 5 PM (Oct to Feb).
You can reach Neermahal by taking a bus or a cab from Agartala, which is 53 km away, and then taking a boat ride on Rudrasagar Lake.
Attraction of Neermahal
Neermahal is not only a historical and architectural marvel but also a cultural treasure trove. It offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy and appreciate.
One of the main attractions of Neermahal is the light and sound show that is held every evening. The show narrates the history and legends of Neermahal and Tripura through colorful lights and music. It also showcases the cultural diversity and richness of the state through folk dances and songs. The show is a captivating and informative experience that brings Neermahal to life.
Another attraction of Neermahal is the Neermahal Water Festival, which is held every year in August. The festival celebrates the spirit and culture of Tripura and attracts thousands of tourists and locals. The festival features boat races, cultural programs, water sports, and fireworks. It is a fun-filled and festive occasion that highlights the importance and beauty of Neermahal and Rudrasagar Lake.
Apart from these, visitors can also enjoy boating on the lake, exploring the palace interiors, and relaxing on the lawns and flower beds. They can also visit the nearby attractions, such as the Melaghar Palace, Sipahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Udaipur Temple Complex.
Neermahal is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the history, architecture, and culture of Tripura. It is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition and appreciation. It is a place where you can witness the past, present, and future of a state that is often overlooked but has much to offer.
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Neermahal is a majestic water palace in Tripura, India, that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. It is the largest water palace in India and one of the two in the country. It was built by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur in 1930 as a summer residence and a cultural venue for his royal family. Inspired by Hindu and Mughal styles, Neermahal combines elegance and grandeur with a touch of mystery and romance. It is the only water palace in eastern India and one of the most amazing and underrated attractions in the country.
If you are looking for a new and exciting destination to explore, you should consider visiting Neermahal. You will be amazed by its beauty and charm, as well as its history and culture. You will also have a chance to enjoy some activities and events that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
We also have expert guides and tips to help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your visit. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover Neermahal, the hidden gem of India’s water palaces.
