If you’re a history lover or someone who enjoys exploring royal palaces, Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad, West Bengal, should be on your bucket list! 🏛️
Built during the rule of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah in the 19th century, Hazarduari (meaning “palace with a thousand doors”) is an architectural marvel filled with stories of Bengal’s royal past.
Located around 200 km from Kolkata, it’s one of the most popular weekend destinations for travelers who love culture, heritage, and scenic countryside views. 🌾
In this post, you’ll learn everything about how to reach Hazarduari from Kolkata — by train, bus, or car — along with routes, timings, fares, and travel tips. Let’s dive in! 🚗✨
🏰 About Hazarduari Palace
Hazarduari Palace, situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, was constructed in 1837 under British supervision. The palace is known for its 1,000 doors (900 real and 100 false), designed to confuse intruders.
Inside, you’ll find a museum displaying:
- Royal swords ⚔️
- Vintage guns and armors
- Paintings and chandeliers 🕯️
- Historical manuscripts and furniture
The architecture is influenced by Greek (Doric) style, and the grandeur will surely leave you mesmerized.
📍 Location and Distance
- 📌 Location: Murshidabad, West Bengal
- 🏛️ Tourist Spot: Hazarduari Palace
- 📍 Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 200 km
- 🕒 Travel Time: 4.5 to 6 hours (depending on route and mode)
🚆 How to Go Hazarduari from Kolkata by Train
Traveling by train is the most convenient and budget-friendly way to reach Hazarduari. Murshidabad is well connected to Kolkata through several daily trains.
🏙️ Nearest Railway Station:
Murshidabad Railway Station (MBB) – Just 1 km from Hazarduari Palace. You can easily walk or take an e-rickshaw.
🚉 Popular Trains from Kolkata to Murshidabad
| Train Name | Departure (Kolkata) | Arrival (Murshidabad) | Travel Time | Fare (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hazarduari Express (13113) | 6:50 AM | 11:25 AM | 4 hr 35 min | ₹120 (SL) / ₹315 (3AC) |
| Bhagirathi Express (13103) | 6:20 PM | 10:50 PM | 4 hr 30 min | ₹120 / ₹315 |
| Lalgola Passenger | 10:30 PM | 5:00 AM | 6 hr 30 min | ₹80 / ₹250 |
🛤️ Boarding Stations in Kolkata:
- Sealdah (SDAH)
- Kolkata Railway Station (KOAA)
💡 Travel Tip:
Book tickets online via IRCTC or use mobile apps like ConfirmTkt or RailYatri. Always reserve at least 3 days in advance, especially on weekends.
🚌 How to Go Hazarduari from Kolkata by Bus
If you prefer road travel, buses are another good option. There are regular WBSTC, SBSTC, and private buses connecting Kolkata to Murshidabad.
🛣️ Route:
Kolkata → Krishnanagar → Behrampore → Murshidabad (Hazarduari)
🚍 Bus Details:
| Bus Type | Departure Point | Duration | Fare (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| WBSTC AC Bus | Esplanade | 6–7 hours | ₹400–₹550 |
| SBSTC Non-AC | Esplanade / Karunamoyee | 6–7 hours | ₹250–₹350 |
| Private AC Sleeper | Ultadanga / Dankuni | 5.5–6 hours | ₹500–₹700 |
🚌 Drop Point: Berhampore Bus Stand (from where you can take an auto/e-rickshaw to Hazarduari, around 10 km).
💡 Travel Tip:
Prefer night buses if you want to explore Hazarduari early in the morning. Carry light snacks and water as roadside facilities are limited.
🚗 How to Go Hazarduari from Kolkata by Car
If you enjoy long drives, this route will make your trip scenic and flexible. 🚗✨
🛣️ Best Route (via NH12):
Kolkata → Barasat → Krishnanagar → Behrampore → Murshidabad (Hazarduari)
📏 Distance:
Approximately 200 km
⏱️ Travel Time:
Around 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic
💰 Approx Fuel Cost:
₹1,200 – ₹1,500 (one way)
🧭 Google Maps Route:
Simply search “Hazarduari Palace” on Google Maps and follow NH12. Roads are well maintained and scenic, passing through lush fields and riverside villages.
💡 Travel Tip:
- Start early (around 6 AM) to avoid city traffic.
- Stop at Krishnanagar for breakfast or tea.
- Use offline maps if network signals drop in rural areas.
🕰️ Best Time to Visit Hazarduari
| Season | Months | Weather | Travel Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Pleasant (12°C–25°C) | Best time to explore the palace |
| Summer | March – June | Hot (30°C–40°C) | Avoid afternoon visits |
| Monsoon | July – September | Humid with rainfall | Scenic but slightly inconvenient |
🌸 Recommended: Visit between November and February for the best experience and photography lighting.
🎟️ Entry Fee and Timings
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee (Indian) | ₹25 per person |
| Entry Fee (Foreigners) | ₹300 per person |
| Museum Timings | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Weekly Holiday | Friday (closed) |
📸 Photography:
Photography is allowed in the palace compound but restricted inside the museum.
🏨 Where to Stay Near Hazarduari
You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly hotels and lodges near Murshidabad Station and Lalbagh area.
🏠 Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Sagnik – Near Hazarduari Gate (₹800–₹1500)
- Berhampore Lodge – 8 km away, AC rooms & restaurant (₹1000–₹1800)
- Hotel Glory – Near Lalbagh (₹900–₹1200)
💡 Tip:
Book hotels via MakeMyTrip or Booking.com for discounts.
🍛 What to Eat in Murshidabad
Murshidabad is famous for its Mughlai and Bengali cuisine. Don’t miss these local delicacies:
🍴 Must Try Foods:
- Murshidabadi Biryani 🍗
- Mutton Rezala
- Chanar Jilipi 🍮
- Rosogolla and Mihidana
- Lassi and sugarcane juice
Try local eateries near the palace for authentic flavors.
🕌 Nearby Tourist Attractions
While you’re in Murshidabad, explore these nearby gems:
- Katra Masjid – Famous 18th-century mosque with 200 stairs
- Nizamat Imambara – One of India’s largest Imambaras
- Kathgola Palace – Stunning mansion with Jain influence
- Motijheel – Peaceful lake area, great for photography
- Jafarganj Cemetery – Historical site of the Nawabs’ family graves
💡 Tip: Hire a local guide or rent an e-rickshaw for ₹400–₹500 to cover all attractions in 3–4 hours.
📸 Travel Tips for Hazarduari Trip
✅ Carry a bottle of water, sunglasses, and a hat.
✅ Visit early morning to avoid crowds.
✅ Respect historical monuments — avoid touching artifacts.
✅ Keep cash handy (digital payments not accepted everywhere).
✅ If traveling by car, park at the official museum lot.
🧭 Sample One-Day Itinerary
6:00 AM: Start from Kolkata
10:30 AM: Reach Murshidabad (by train or car)
11:00 AM: Visit Hazarduari Palace Museum
1:00 PM: Lunch near the palace
2:00 PM: Visit Imambara & Katra Masjid
4:00 PM: Explore Motijheel
5:30 PM: Return to Kolkata or stay overnight
💬 Final Thoughts
A trip from Kolkata to Hazarduari Palace is more than just a weekend getaway — it’s a journey into Bengal’s royal heritage. 👑✨
Whether you travel by train, bus, or car, the road to Murshidabad offers a blend of history, architecture, and culture. So pack your camera 🎥, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to explore the grandeur of Hazarduari Palace — one of Bengal’s most treasured gems! 💖