Varanasi’s Brijrama Palace: Where History Meets Artistry And Culture

Varanasi always intrigued me. Before I visited, my impressions came from Manu Parekh’s paintings, Diana Eck’s writing, and Raghu Rai’s photos. And when the chance arrived to visit one of the oldest cities in the world, one that is regarded as “older than history, older than tradition, and older even than legend,” I was certainly not letting it pass.

Two boatmen guided me through a narrow lane that led to the Assi Ghat. Welcomed by the holy Ganges, we were soon on our way to the Darbhanga Ghat. With the view of the ghats and the Ganges glistening under the sun, I felt alive in those moments. When one of the boatmen pointed in the distance and said, "That is the Manikarnika Ghat—the burning ghats of Banaras; cremations happen there at all hours, every day, according to mythological tradition,"​ I realised how Varanasi brings you closest to both life and death.

With that thought, I reached Darbhanga Ghat, where Brijrama Palace stood in full grandeur. That became my base for the next 24 invigorating hours in Varanasi.

History Of The Palace

The palace was built in 1812 by Shridhar Narayan Munshi. In 1915, Munshi gifted this magnificent structure to King Rameshawar Singh Bahadur of Darbangha, and it soon became known as the Darbangha Palace. Later, Brijpal Das acquired the property and dedicated 18 years to transforming its corridors and courtyards into a work of art. Today, the Brijrama Palace stands as one of the most beautiful and sought-after properties in Banaras, its charm rooted in a tapestry of history and artistry.​

From the low-lying doors built by King Rameshwar Singh Bahadur and the beautiful frescoes to walls adorned with thikri work and life-sized wooden figures, every element inside the palace draws you closer to its rich history. As a tourist visiting Varanasi for the first time, what stood out for me was the palace’s location.

Moreover, its unique setting allows you to experience Banaras at its best. An ideal morning at Brijrama would be one where you carry your cup of tea or coffee to their balcony and experience the city come alive, with the sound of the Ganges forming the perfect backdrop. Evenings, on the other hand, would be incomplete without attending the Ganga aarti at Dashashmev Ghat, which is only a short walk away.

A Stay At The Brijrama Palace

From Bismillah Khan, who first played his shehnai in the corridors of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, to sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar, a son of the land, music lies at the heart of Banaras. No one understands and represents this better than the Brijram Palace, where mornings begin with musicians in the bada aangan (large courtyard) infusing the air with their raagas. Their notes set the stage for the day at the palace.​

Evenings feature stunning kathak performances that tell tales from Radha and Krishna’s love story. While often seen as entertainment, these elements reveal and preserve the city’s culture and traditions. Dance and music, thus, connect mornings and evenings at the Brijrama Palace, making every moment a meaningful experience of Banaras’s cultural heart.

Accommodation And Food At The Palace

The property includes 32 well-equipped rooms, divided into five categories. Highlights among them are the Maharaja suite and the Varuna Burj rooms, which offer views of the holy Ganges. The other three categories include the Vasundhara, Dhanudhara, and Nadihara rooms.​

In addition to its accommodation offerings, the palace features three restaurants that serve strictly vegetarian cuisine. Darbangha operates as the all-day dining space, presenting a menu that ranges from authentic Banarasi delicacies to Italian and Chinese dishes. Notably, their newly opened restaurant, Aangan, is worth every rupee. Here, a ten-course tasting menu spanning 2.5 hours pays tribute to the palace's guiding stars, including Munshi, Bahadur, and Das. From sheermal roti to siphon mallaiyo, each dish is intentional, well-prepared, and inventive.

Between the rhythm of the Ganges, the echoes of music in the courtyards, and the beauty of the ghats just beyond its walls, Brijrama Palace offers not just a place to stay, but a way to experience the city at its best. In a land where time folds into itself, this palace becomes the perfect pause—where history, culture, and comfort meet.

Information

Address: Darbhanga Ghat, Dashashwamedh, Uttar Pradesh 221001

Tarrif:

Nadidhara Rooms: INR 44,000 per night + taxes

Vasundhara Room: INR 63000 per night + taxes

Mahidhara Rooms: INR 50,000 per night + taxes

Dhanurdhara Rooms: INR 48,000 per night + taxes

Maharaja Suite (Ganges view): INR 1,10,000 per night + taxes

Varuna Burj(Ganges view): INR 1,40,000 per night + taxes

FAQs

1. Where is Brijrama Palace located in Varanasi?
Brijrama Palace is located on Darbhanga Ghat, close to Dashashwamedh Ghat, and is accessible primarily by boat via the River Ganges.

2. What is the historical significance of Brijrama Palace?
Built in 1812, the palace was originally known as Darbhanga Palace and later restored over 18 years, preserving its frescoes, thikri work, and architectural details rooted in Banaras’s cultural past.

3. What cultural experiences are offered at Brijrama Palace?
Guests can experience live classical music performances in the mornings and kathak dance recitals in the evenings, reflecting Varanasi’s deep connection with music, dance, and spiritual traditions.

4. Does Brijrama Palace offer Ganges-facing rooms?
Yes, select categories such as the Maharaja Suite and Varuna Burj rooms offer direct views of the River Ganges and the surrounding ghats.

5. What kind of food is served at Brijrama Palace?
The palace serves strictly vegetarian cuisine across its restaurants, including Banarasi specialities and a curated tasting menu that highlights local ingredients and culinary traditions.