Belgadia Palace: Odisha's Royal Heritage Open to Visitors

Top Summary

• What happened: The Belgadia Palace in Odisha, a part-royal residence and boutique hotel, is attracting tourists.
• Why it matters: It promotes sustainable tourism and preserves Kalinga history in a tribal-dominated region.
• What changes for people: Travelers can experience royal hospitality and explore Odisha's cultural heritage.
• Who is affected: Tourists, the local community, and the royal family of Mayurbhanj benefit from this initiative.

A Royal Residence Opens Its Doors

Tucked away in Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha, the Belgadia Palace offers a unique glimpse into India's royal past. Built in the 1800s, this Victorian-style palace blends elegance with history.

Instagram travel influencer Shun Akazawa recently showcased the palace, highlighting its hidden charm and authenticity. His post emphasized that few Japanese tourists venture into Odisha, making this find even more special.

Inside the Belgadia Palace

The palace, a mix of royal home and heritage space, features long corridors, vintage portraits, and a distinctive charm. It functions as both a personal residence and a restored boutique property with 11 rooms.

The vision of Maharajkumari Mrinalika and Akshita M Bhanj Deo was to establish sustainable tourism with a social impact. This initiative aims to benefit the tribal-dominated region surrounding the palace.

Accommodation and Amenities

The Belgadia Palace offers four distinct room choices, each reflecting Mayurbhanj's rich history:

• Palace room (200 sqft)
• Historical suite (350 sqft)
• Garden Historical suite (600 sqft)
• Royal suite (500 sqft)

The palace boasts 5 spacious suites, high ceilings, large bay windows, colorful walls, and king-size beds. These features create a luxurious and historically rich atmosphere.

Experience Royal Hospitality

The price for two people ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per night, according to the official website. This allows guests to experience royal living amidst art and vintage decor.

 

"Part royal home, part heritage space – with long corridors, old portraits, and that soft, slightly faded charm you can't fake," Shun Akazawa noted.

 

What to Watch Next

The Belgadia Palace aims to expand its sustainable tourism initiatives, further integrating with the local community and promoting Odia culture. Future developments may include more immersive cultural experiences and partnerships with local artisans.