In Agartala Explore this destination
Kunjaban Palace
A look into the rich history of Agartala.
Kunjaban Palace (or Pushpabanta Palace/Pushpavant Palace) is a historic palace in Agartala (Tripura). It is linked to the royal history of the Manikya Dynasty. The palace is located in a nice, lush area in the city.
Kunjaban Palace is worth knowing about if you’re planning to visit Agartala. However keep in mind that it is an official palace which may mean the building isn’t open to the public. Be sure to check for up-to-date information regarding the palace.
About Kunjaban Palace
This beautiful palace is one of many historic royal buildings in Tripura. It was built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya. It is sometimes referred to as Pushpabanta Palace. It was built during the time when Agartala was becoming the centre of the Principality.
The palace is located in the Kunjaban area. This area is renowned for being a lush area. Previously it would have been a more peaceful area to stay away from the main palace. This gives visitors some insight into how the royal family would have stayed in different buildings.
Overall, the palace is interesting because of its history. However it should not be treated like a free museum. As it is an official palace, it will have restrictions.
History Of Kunjaban Palace
The palace was built during Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya’s reign (a member of the Manikya Dynasty that ruled the former principality). The royal family played an important role in the region. This means that buildings from this time give you insight into how the capital developed and how the royal family lived.
This palace became the official residence of the Governor of Tripura. It was widely known as ‘Raj Bhavan’. The Governor has since moved to a new building. So please check for up-to-date information.
The palace is also linked to famous poet Rabindranath Tagore. The local area also includes a garden called Rabindra Kanan, named after the famous poet.
If you are interested in finding out more about the royal history of Agartala, you can read about The City Palace .
Where Is Kunjaban Palace?
Kunjaban Palace is located in Agartala (the capital of Tripura in Northeastern India). The area is well connected by local roads. You can get here by taking a taxi, auto rickshaw or by private vehicle.
Taxi/Auto Rickshaw
Taking a taxi/ auto rickshaw is a good way to get to the Kunjaban area. Tell your driver you’d like to visit the palace or nearby area. Make sure you know where you can stop. You might not be able to get into the palace grounds.
Private Vehicle
If you are already exploring Agartala, you can get here by car or motorbike. Make sure to follow local signage and any guidance from local authorities. There may not be parking available.
Air/Train
If you are travelling from outside of Tripura, you can fly/train into Agartala then take local transport to get here. Please check for up-to-date information. For general information, you can find out more from the West Tripura District Administration and their list of places of interest.
What Can You See?
Depending on the restrictions, you may not be able to get into the palace. As it is a historic building, you may not be able to go past the security.
- Exterior of the palace – If you can view the palace from an area that is open to the public you may be able to enjoy the look of the building and its significance to Agartala’s history.
- Lush area – The palace area is well known for being a lovely area with lots of gardens, trees and open areas. Some areas may be open.
- Rabindra Kanan – A garden area linked to Rabindranath Tagore. Make sure it is open to the public.
As it is an official palace, it is a good idea to know a little about the royal history behind the building. This can help you understand why it is significant to Tripura.
Please keep in mind that this is an official palace. You must respect the security and any restricted areas. You may not be able to take photos everywhere. Please follow any guidance from security staff.
What To Do
If it is open to the public, keep it simple. You can:
- Find out about its link to the Manikya Dynasty.
- Enjoy the surroundings from an area open to the public.
- Visit the garden area if it is open.
- Only take photos where you’re allowed to.
- Combine with other historic places that are open to the public.
This isn’t the best place to plan a long tour of the palace. If you’re expecting to view rooms, royal furniture and displays inside, make sure they are open.
Best Time To Visit Kunjaban Palace
October to March is usually a great time to visit Agartala. It tends to be cooler during this time. This can be a great time to visit multiple outdoor attractions.
Morning or late afternoon can be a great time to enjoy the local areas. These are just general suggestions. Please check for up-to-date information.
During the monsoon season Agartala can get very wet. Please take an umbrella and/or raincoat.
Facilities
This isn’t a paid attraction so you can’t assume there will be any facilities. There may not be public toilets, drinks, parking, tours or ticket office.
It’s a good idea to plan your transport in advance. Take drinks with you and ensure your phone is charged. If you’re going to visit Rabindra Kanan or another attraction in the area, make sure they are open.
Who Should Visit Kunjaban Palace?
Those who enjoy history, architecture and royal history of Northeastern India may enjoy a visit. Those studying about the former princely state of Tripura and the Manikya Dynasty may also find this interesting.
Those visiting with families or those who enjoy photography may enjoy the local area. However, if you’re looking for a palace tour inside or a large attraction with facilities, make sure they are open. If the grounds aren’t open you may have to enjoy it from outside or visit another attraction that is open.
Things To Check
- Check if the palace or gardens are open on the date you’re visiting.
- Ask if you can enter and if there are any security restrictions.
- Check if you can take photos.
- Don’t assume there will be parking on the road.
- Follow any guidance from security. Don’t try to get closer by going past barriers.
Common Questions
Where is Kunjaban Palace?
Kunjaban Palace is located in Agartala (capital of Tripura in Northeastern India).
What is Kunjaban Palace also known as?
Kunjaban Palace is also known as Pushpabanta Palace or Pushpavant Palace.
Who built Kunjaban Palace?
Kunjaban Palace was built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya (Manikya Dynasty).
Is Kunjaban Palace open to the public?
As this is an official palace, there may not be public access to the building. Please check for up-to-date information.
Is Kunjaban Palace the same as Raj Bhavan?
Kunjaban Palace was previously used as the official residence for the Governor of Tripura. It was known as Raj Bhavan. However, the Governor has since moved to another building.
Can I view the palace?
Don’t assume you can enter. Please check with local authorities. Follow any security guidelines.
What is Rabindra Kanan?
A garden area linked to the Kunjaban area. It is named after Rabindranath Tagore. Please check if it is open to the public.
When is the best time to visit Kunjaban Palace?
October to March is usually a nice time to visit Agartala. Please check for up-to-date information and local weather.
Is there an entry fee?
There may not be an entry fee. Please check with local authorities to see if it is open to visitors.
How can I get to Kunjaban Palace?
You can get to the Kunjaban area by taxi, auto rickshaw or private vehicle. Make sure to check with your driver to see where you can stop.
Final Thoughts
Kunjaban Palace is an important part of the royal history of Agartala. It has links to the Manikya Dynasty and famous poet Rabindranath Tagore meaning it can be an interesting place to visit if you’re wanting to learn more about the history of Tripura.
Make sure to check if the palace grounds or gardens are open to the public. If you have the right expectations, you can create a more useful visit. Combine with other historic attractions that are open to the public.
