If you are in Kolkata for a holiday, consider a stay at a heritage property. West Bengal is a region that is steeped in history and culture. Its heritage mansions, once owned by zamindars, are a testament to its rich past. Each mansion has a unique story to tell, dating back centuries, and staying in one of them is an immersive experience that can transport you to a bygone era. From the regal architecture to the antique furnishings, every detail of these mansions exudes an air of elegance and grandeur. Whether you prefer to stay in a mansion by the river or one located in a charming heritage town, here is a selection of five heritage mansions near Kolkata that offer an unforgettable experience.
Located on the banks of the Ganges River, this century-old heritage home is a perfect blend of history, elegance, and tranquility. It was previously owned by Roy Bahadur Radhakanta Deb, who was a scholar and social reformer. The beautifully renovated heritage mansion is now a spacious abode that offers rooms and suites with the same elegance of a bygone era, while providing modern amenities. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the Ganges River from the rooftop of Sunset Travel Cafe. This unique establishment not only offers a menu of delicious food, but also provides travel planning services to help you make the most out of your holiday. Read more about it here.
Address: P948+378, Sukchar, Jaiprakash Nagar, Panihati, Kolkata, Khardaha, West Bengal 700115
Getting There
Nihar On the Ganges is strategically positioned just 18 km from Kolkata Airport, ensuring simple access for visitors.
Amadpur is a charming town situated approximately 100 km away from Kolkata with beautiful terracotta temples, a vast lake, fields and mango orchards. The former zamindar family manages a pleasant and luxurious homestay that is worth checking out. The Chaudhuri Zamindar Bari in Amadpur is a historic residence that offers a unique heritage experience featuring four spacious rooms, each tastefully decorated with a blend of traditional and modern furnishings. Choose from three double occupancy rooms, each with elegant decor and ample space to relax, or opt for the larger four-bed room, perfect for families or groups of friends. Whether you're looking for a romantic weekend getaway or a memorable family vacation, the Chaudhuri Zamindar Bari is the perfect destination to unwind and connect with the rich cultural heritage of Bengal. They offer fresh farm produce and pick-ups from Kolkata upon request. The place is pet-friendly, except during the festival season. Read more about it here.
Address: Heritage Homestays, Amadpur,Via Memari,Dist Burdwan, Village, Amadpur, West Bengal 713154
Getting There
Amadpur is about 100 km away from Kolkata by road via Memari.
Located just four hours from Kolkata, Bari Kothi is a beautiful heritage property situated by the River Ganges. The award-winning property in Murshidabad was restored with help from Canadian restoration specialist and architect, Dr Samar Chandra. Functioning on the principles of UN Sustainable Development Goals and Adaptive Reuse, Bari Kothi is completely taken care of by the rural community of Azimganj. The aim to turn the hotel into a self-sustaining ecosystem where even if the main people are unplugged from the system, the ecosystem keeps running. A good reason to experience the heritage stay is that you will be able to sample the unique Sheherwali cuisine here. The cuisine borrows liberally from its surrounding cultures like Nawabi, Bengali and European. Find out more about them here.
Address: Jainpatty, Jiaganj Azimganj, Azimganj, West Bengal 742122
Mahishadal Rajbari is a former Bengali palace located less than three hours from Kolkata. It was built by Janardhan Upadhya, a high-ranking Akbar army officer and designed by a French architect in 1926. The palace's Phool Bagh Palace offers a two-room homestay facility that can be booked by visitors. With tall Ionic columns supporting the roof, ornate gold-coloured shields and floral motifs adorning the white facade, and a gun mounted on a carriage, the palace is an impressive sight. It is also famous for its annual Rath Jatra celebrations that started in 1776 and its ancient Durga Puja festivities. Read more about it here.
Address: Phul Bagh Palace, P.O: Mahishadal, Dist.: Purba Midnapur, West Bengal
Getting There: Mahishadal is around 100 km by road from Kolkata via Kolaghat and Nandakumar More. You may travel by train from Howrah but driving down is a more comfortable option.
This 300-year-old boutique heritage property has been beautifully restored to provide visitors with a slice of the past. Spread across four acres of land, the rooms include carved antique four-poster beds with marble floors, spacious bathrooms, and modern amenities. They offer several different kinds of stays. For instance, Notun Bari is a luxurious unit consisting of two rooms that offer a stunning view of the First Pond. With its private patio and comfortable seating area, it is perfect for a family of four or two couples. Read more about it here.
Address: The, Bowali Rajbari, North, Bawali, Kolkata, Raypur, West Bengal 743384
Getting There
A car ride from Kolkata takes around an hour. The closest railway stations are Sealdah and Budge Budge which are 35 km and 11 km away.
