Tripura Neermahal is one of its kind, not just in the North East but in India. The country has only two water palaces, with the second being the Jal Mahal in Rajasthan.
The former King of Tripura built Neermahal as his summer palace. He chose the British company Martin and Burns to make his dream a reality, and the project took almost nine years to complete. It blended Hindu and Muslim architectural styles according to the King’s taste.
Attractions in Neermahal
Exquisite Architecture
Neermahal is undoubtedly a magnificent palace that includes Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Built on the lake, it attracts many migratory birds yearly, creating a pleasant sight for birdwatchers. Neermahal looks captivating at night when the lights are turned on, and its image is reflected in the water.
The construction of the palace included marble and sandstone extensively. In addition, the ornate walls, pavilions, balconies, pillars, and rooms are the best attractions that fascinate tourists.
Neermahal has two parts. The western side is called Andar Mahal, made for the royal family members. On the other hand, the eastern side is an open-air theater, which showcases dance, theater, drama, and other cultural performances that were once held for the kings and their families.
Featuring 24 rooms, Neermahal Tripura has two stairways that lead to Rudrasagar Lake’s water. Also, the kings were transferred to the palace by hand-powered boat from ‘Rajghat.’
Water Festival
As Neermahal is located in the middle of a lake, the Government of Tripura organized a three-day event called “Neermahal Water Festival. It is celebrated in August and December. People from nearby states visit Neermahal to witness and participate in the event. Many competitions, such as boat races and swimming, are observed. In addition, small cultural programs keep the visitors entertained. Many food stalls are also set up to make this festival more fun.
Timings of Neermahal Tripura –9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Recommended duration – 1-2 hours
Entry Fee – INR 5 for adults, INR 3 for children below five years of age
How to Reach Neermahal
The nearest airport to Neermahal is Agartala Airport, 52 km away. From Agartala Railway Station, the palace is located approx. 44 km away, a 1.5-hour drive. Taxis are available from outside the airport and railway station to Neermahal. Buses are available from Agartala Bus Stand to Melaghar Market. From there, you can get an auto/rickshaw for the palace. For hassle-free sightseeing, book private guided tours with Indian Holiday.
Nearby Attractions
Once completed with the tour of Neermahal, here are some places to visit nearby:
Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is located around 29 km from Neermahal. It provides shelter to various mammals, birds, and plants. Built-in 1972, Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary also features a botanical garden, a zoo, and a deer park. The sanctuary has around 456 species of plants, including bamboo and various medicinal plants. Different primate species live here, like Barking Deer, Wild Pigs, Jungle Fowls, Slow Loris, Pigtailed Macaque, Civets, and more. The avian population includes Whistling Teal, White Ibis, and Winged Storks.
Tripura Sundari Temple Or Matabari
As per Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu cut off the body of Sati into 51 parts with his ‘Sudarshana Chakra.’ All the parts fell at different places throughout the country, which became known as ‘Shakti Peethas.’ It is also believed that Sundari Temple is where Mata Sati’s right foot fell. Therefore, it is a highly revered temple called Kurma Pith, shaped like a Kurma or tortoise. The temple also houses the idol of Maa Kali in the sanctum sanctorum.
Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary
Around 46 km away from Neermahal stands the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary. It is known for its exotic flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuary was built in 1988, covering an area of 197.7 square kilometers. Some major attractions of this wildlife sanctuary include the Indian Gaur (Bison), Wild Cat, Wild Boar, Hooklock Gibbon, Pheasants, Lalmukh Bandar, and more. Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to reptiles and various species of resident and migratory birds.
Kamalasagar Kali Temple
Visit Kamalasagar Kali Temple, located 48 km away from Neermahal. It is situated atop a hillock overlooking a lake called Kamalasagar. The lake was developed in the 15th century by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya. The temple has an image of the goddess that looks similar to Dashabhuja Durga or Mahishasurmardini. The idea is made of sandstone and is worshiped as Maa Kali. You will also find a Shivlingam at the feet of the image, giving the temple name Kalibari.
Book Tripura tour packages with Indian Holiday to explore more places in Tripura and get insights into the fantastic tribal culture of the region. We customize packages per the client’s needs, making the tour enjoyable and hassle-free.