Aesthetics & Philosophy

Upon arriving at the modest gates, your gaze is captivated by the double-storeyed white façade adorned with striking Corinthian columns, beckoning you towards the entrance known as 'Hathi Baramdah.' As you step inside, a royal welcome awaits you in the library, where you catch a glimpse of the opulent interiors.

The palace exudes an aura of old-world grandeur, with remnants of heritage on display at every turn. Adorning the walls are family portraits and paintings that bring the past to life. Your attention is drawn to the exquisite period furniture, intricate chandeliers, and an array of captivating elements, including vintage vinyl records, Persian carpets, and oil paintings. Ascending the wide and winding mahogany staircase leads you to the spacious suites on the upper floors, adorned in rich jewel-toned decor.

Surrounded by 15 acres of enchanting mango orchards and meticulously maintained gardens, the palace boasts sprawling grounds that invite exploration. Delight in the clear walking paths that urge you to wander and discover the beauty of the estate. Make sure to visit the serene natural lake that adds to the picturesque charm. The open verandas, originally designed as viewing parlours for the ladies of the household, offer an ideal setting for an afternoon siesta, leisurely lounging, reading, or simply relishing the soothing ambiance amidst the rustling trees and melodious birdsong.

Accommodation

The suites and rooms feature lofty ceilings and elegant en suite bathrooms. They are adorned with tastefully curated antiques and art pieces from diverse parts of the world. The youthful and vibrant design of the interiors creates a fascinating contrast with the heritage architecture, resulting in a captivating ambiance. On the ground floor, the rooms offer delightful views of the gardens and open up to a long veranda, adding to the charm of the accommodation.

Dining at the palace is a delightful experience. Breakfast is typically enjoyed in the open air, surrounded by the enchanting fragrance of frangipani and hibiscus. For main meals, you have the option of dining in the formal dining room or joining the royal family for a convivial family-style dining experience around a large table. The cuisine predominantly showcases homestyle Indian dishes and regional delicacies, incorporating a variety of locally sourced vegetables and grains.

Experiences

A minimum stay of two nights at the Belgadia Palace is highly recommended, with the ideal duration being three nights or longer, depending on your interests and available time. Exploring the heritage of Baripada town is a must-do activity, where you can embark on a fascinating heritage walk encompassing notable buildings like the Mayurbhanj Palace, now serving as a women's college. The local Jagannath temple, a 14th-century replica of the temple in Puri, offers a spiritually enriching experience with its vibrant evening aarti ceremony. Don't miss the weekly village haat (market), a paradise for photographers, where traders showcase an array of fresh vegetables, grains, spices, fish, and unique handcrafted items such as woven baskets and cooking utensils.

There are numerous excursions available near Baripada that highlight the region's rich art and craft traditions. Discover the exquisite Dokra brassware, intricate black stone carvings, and Sabai grass products created by a women's cooperative. Another notable attraction is the stone temples of Khiching, revered pilgrimage sites dedicated to the mother goddesses. Additionally, the Mayurbhanj Chhau dance offers a captivating glimpse into the folk art that flourished under the patronage of the Mayurbhanj rulers.

The Belgadia Palace is perfect for individuals, small groups, and families seeking off-the-beaten-track exploration, immersive experiences in local history and culture, and tranquil rural retreats. It also serves as an excellent destination for a workcation, providing a serene and inspiring environment. With its convenient connectivity to Kolkata and Bhubaneshwar, the palace serves as an ideal starting or ending point for exploring East India. It complements other esteemed properties in the region, such as Rajbari Bawali, Bari Kothi, and the Glenburn Penthouse in central Kolkata, as well as the river cruises offered by Assam Bengal Navigation on the Ganges and Brahmaputra.

The Belgadia Palace operates throughout the year, welcoming guests to indulge in its unique offerings and warm hospitality.

Conscious Travel

Mrinalika and Akshita, the owners of The Belgadia Palace, prioritize responsible tourism. They have received the Champion for Community Tourism Award for their sustainable practices. The palace bans single-use plastic, segregates waste, and uses compost pits. They promote water conservation and energy efficiency, while focusing on preserving nature and biodiversity. The property engages with the local community, supports artisans, and sources local produce.

The Belgadia Palace has a low environmental footprint, repurposing debris and utilizing sustainable materials. They emphasize heritage preservation, including promoting local festivals and arts. Through the Mayurbhanj Foundation, they impact the lives of 100,000 people by supporting education, livelihood, health, and the arts. Profits from eco-tourism directly benefit local communities.