In the list of must visit tourist destinations in India, Tripura often remains overshadowed. Even in the North East India, Tripura is not that well known. However, this small state on India-Bangladesh border has so much to offer. Among many amazing places to visit here, it is Neermahal that is worth the time. It is a breathtaking palace that is situated a few km away from Agartala. Built by the royal family of Tripura, Neermahal stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance and rich history of the region.
About Neermahal?
Neermahal, which translates to “Water Palace” in the local language, was constructed in the early 20th century by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya. The palace was designed as a summer retreat for the royal family and was completed in 1938. It is located in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake. The clean water add a unique reflection making the surroundings picturesque.
How to Reach Neermahal from Agartala?
Reaching Neermahal from Agartala is relatively easy. The palace is located about 53 kilometers away from Agartala, the capital city of Tripura. Travelers can opt for various modes of transportation depending on their preferences and budget. The most convenient way is to hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Agartala to Neermahal. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Another option is to take a bus from Agartala to Melaghar, the nearest town to Neermahal, and then hire an auto-rickshaw or a cycle rickshaw to reach the palace.
Stay Options in Neermahal
While it is easy to go to Neermahal and come back to Agartala the same day, you can also choose to stay nearby for a sunrise and sunset experience on the lake. There are a few places to stay near the palace. Melaghar, being the closest town, offers a couple of budget-friendly accommodations. These include guesthouses and small hotels that provide comfortable lodging options. However, if you prefer more luxurious amenities, Agartala offers a wider range of hotels and resorts to choose from.
Things to do at Neermahal
Explore the Palace
The first thing to do at Neermahal is obviously exploring the palace. You can get a ticket outside and explore the palace’s interiors. The palace is designed keeping a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. There are domes, carvings, and beautiful balconies all over the space. Take a leisurely stroll through the palace and if possible, hire a guide to understand the significance and the history.
Boating at Rudrasagar Lake to Neermahal
You can only reach Neermahal by hiring a shared boat. Rent a boat and sail across the crystal clear waters. The lake is also a fishing area so you’ll witness a lot of activities happening here. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of Neermahal and allows you to fully appreciate its beauty from every angle.
Birdwatching
The Rudrasagar Lake and its surrounding marshy areas are a haven for birdwatchers. The lake attracts a variety of migratory birds and local ones. You can take a long range camera or binoculars to spot beautiful birds like waterfowl, kingfishers, egrets, and herons. The balconies of Neermahal make a perfect vantage point to click bird photos.
Sunset Watching
The palace’s location by the lakeside offers the best vantage point to enjoy the sunset behind the lake. Find a comfortable spot along the lake, sit back, and watch as the sky turn red. This is the best time to click photos of the palace and the lake as the fishermen start going home and you can spot the birds doing the same.
Enjoy Melaghar Street Food
After exploring the palace you can come back to Melaghar and try the local street food. This small town offers a budget friendly food items including momos, jhal muri, puchka and cutlets. There are also restaurants around the town where you can enjoy fish rice made using local recipes.
Responsible Travel in Tripura
- Respect the local culture: Embrace the local traditions, customs, and dress codes. Seek permission before taking photographs of people, especially in religious or sacred sites. Engage with the locals in a respectful manner, and take the time to learn about their way of life.
- Preserve the environment: Dispose of your trash in designated bins and avoid littering. Opt for eco-friendly activities and accommodations that promote sustainability.
- Support the local economy: Eat at local restaurants and try regional cuisine, which not only supports the local community but also allows you to savor the authentic flavors of Tripura.
- Minimize plastic usage: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles. Say no to plastic bags and carry your own reusable bag for shopping. Small steps like these can significantly reduce plastic waste.
If you are going on a solo trip or backpacking adventure in Agartala, make sure to include Neermahal on your itinerary. It’s the best place to explore the rich history of the region. There are numerous experiences awaiting you at Neermahal and is very easily accessible unlike many other places in Tripura that are faraway.
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