Jalpaiguri Rajbari

Jalpaiguri Rajbari, also known as Raikat Palace, is a historic royal palace located in Rajbari Para, Jalpaiguri city, West Bengal. Built in the early 20th century by the Raikat family, descendants of the Koch dynasty, it served as the residence of the rulers of Baikunthapur Estate. Notable for its colonial-influenced architecture, large Rajbari Dighi lake in front, and associated temples, it remains a cultural landmark and center for traditional Durga Puja celebrations.

Visitors can expect a historic palace complex set around a large tank known as Rajbari Dighi. The exterior shows colonial-influenced architecture with arched verandas and pillars, though the interior is generally not open to the public as part of the palace remains a private residence. The grounds include open courtyards, gardens, and small temples within the compound. The area is quiet and suitable for sightseeing, photography of the facade and lake, and observing local cultural activities during festival periods.

Jalpaiguri Rajbari was the palace of the Raikats, rulers of the Baikunthapur Estate and descendants of the Koch dynasty. The present palace structure was constructed in the early 20th century, around 1906, during the reign of Raikat Prasanna Deb Raikat. It served as the royal residence and administrative centre of the estate and reflects the architectural style of the British colonial period combined with traditional elements.

The Rajbari is a cultural centre for Jalpaiguri, best known for its long-standing Durga Puja and Manasa Puja traditions conducted by the Raikat family. The palace and its temples are important to local heritage and community gatherings, and the Rajbari Dighi is considered a significant landmark associated with the estate's history.