Ujjayanta Palace, Kunjaban Palace

Indian heritage can be traced in the many monuments that have made their place in the heart of almost every Indian. Ujjayanta Palace and Kunjaban Palace are two such monuments that are known worldwide and celebrated by our country. Both palaces reflect the history of India. This article will provide information on the palaces and their importance in Indian history.

About the Ujjayanta Palace

Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya Debbarma built the Ujjayanta Palace. It is also known as the palace of the Kingdom of Tripura. The palace is a regal residence spread across one square kilometre in the capital city of Agartala, Tripura, between 1899 and 1901.

It is a two-story structure constructed in various styles. It has three towering domes, the largest of which is 86 ft tall. The beautiful tile floor, arched timber ceiling, and wonderfully crafted doors are the most striking features of the palace. Enormous Mughal-style gardens surround the palace with ponds, walkways, and tiled floors. The floodlights and fountains around the property add to its charm.

Ujjayanta Palace: Construction and Architecture

• The Ujjayanta Palace is a two-story structure with a 1 km square footprint.
• The main buildings of the structure cover an area of 3.2 km square. This is where the public areas, such as the throne chamber, library, Durbar hall, and reception hall, are situated.
• Sir Alexander Martin of Messrs Martin & Co. designed this neoclassical palace.
• The Chinese chamber in the Ujjayanta Palace is very notable. This lovely space, also called the Chinese Room, houses a ceiling especially created by Chinese artists.
• The palace comprises three huge domes. The central dome stands at 86 ft.
• Some of the palace’s principal features are the spectacularly tiled floor, arching oak ceiling, and exquisitely made doors.
• The palace also has a museum inside where visitors can learn about the lifestyle, traditions, arts and culture, crafts, customs and practices of many northeast groups.
• Certain sections of the palace were destroyed by a severe earthquake in 1897. The palace was eventually rebuilt in the centre of Agartala.
• In 1972–73, the Tripura government bought the Ujjayanta Palace from the royal family.
• Until July 2011, the State Legislative Assembly was based in the palace.
• The fountain before the entrance gate adds to the splendour of the Ujjayanta Palace. The flood lighting makes the castle shine even brighter.
• The green and vibrant gardens are designed in the Mughal style, with several fountains. 
• Additionally, two unique ponds along with pools and fountains are located on either side of the garden. 
• Several temples are also positioned on either side of the palace.

About the Kunjaban Palace

Kunjaban Palace, where Tripura’s Governor resides, was built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya. It was previously known as Pushbanta Palace and is a must-see palace in Agartala. The Kunjaban Palace is located on a hillside, a little more than 1 km away from the Ujjayanta Palace.

The palace has housed various prominent artists, including the great scholar and poet Rabindranath Tagore. The southern section of the palace is named after him and known as Rabindra Kanan. It is said that he created many of his well-known works during his stay at the Kunjaban Palace.

Kunjaban Palace: Construction and Architecture

• The magnificent Kunjaban Palace acts as the Governor of Tripura’s official home. The palace was given to the government once the monarchy disbanded.
• Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Debbarma (1909–1923) chose Kunjaban and built a palace called ‘Pushbanta Palace’ in 1917. The name has since been changed.
• The maharaja designed the palace and its surrounding gardens.
• The maharaja’s skills are apparent in the amazing carvings and inventive constructions that can be seen all over the palace grounds.
• The Kunjaban Palace provides a lovely setting with beautiful green gardens. It also houses a zoo.
• During his last visit to the palace in 1926, Rabindranath Tagore stayed in the eastern chamber. He also produced many of his famous songs here.
• The large park on the palace’s southern side was called ‘Rabindra Kanan’ in Tagore’s honour. It is open to the public throughout the year.

Conclusion

The Ujjayanta Palace was built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya Debbarma. Though immaculate on its own, its beautiful museum reflects Indian heritage. The museum’s artefacts boost the reputation of our country. Kunjaban Palace is located 1 km north of Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala. It is a massive structure built on a green hillside. The Kunjaban Palace is predominantly known for serving as Rabindranath Tagore’s residence as he wrote many famous songs during his stay here. Both the palaces have outstanding creations and well-kept gardens, which make them exceedingly attractive locations.