The name Hazarduari translates literally to 'a palace with a thousand doors'.
The palace was designed by Colonel Duncan Macleod of the Bengal Engineers during the reign of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah.
The central chandelier in the Darbar Hall is considered one of the largest in the world.
The palace interior contains a library holding a significant collection of rare manuscripts and books from the Nizamat period.
The entrance contains a 'Secret Staircase' formerly used by the Nawab to move between chambers unnoticed.
The palace occupies a site formerly known as the Nizamat Kila, which contained the palace of Siraj-ud-Daulah.
The exterior architecture follows a Greco-Roman style with massive Corinthian pillars.
The museum collection includes a portrait gallery showcasing paintings by renowned European artists.
The palace grounds once hosted the first mosque built in Murshidabad, the Nizamat Imambara, situated directly opposite.
It was built using a mix of brick and lime mortar, characteristic of British-era construction in Bengal.
Hazarduari Palace, constructed in 1837 for the Nawab of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, functions as a prominent museum housing an extensive collection of 18th and 19th-century artifacts. The Italian-style structure features 1,000 doors, of which 900 are real and 100 are false, designed to confuse potential intruders. It stands within the Kila Nizamat fort complex on the eastern bank of the Bhagirathi River. The museum displays a vast array of antique weaponry, oil paintings, ivory carvings, and personal belongings of the Nawabs. The Darbar Hall contains a massive chandelier gifted by Queen Victoria. The building spans three stories and features 114 rooms in total. It is recognized as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
The wide river-facing lawn providing a clear perspective of the entire facade and the Corinthian pillars.
Hire a registered guide at the entrance to understand the historical context of the different wings.
Visit the nearby Nizamat Imambara, which is located just steps away from the palace front.
Carry identification as it may be requested for entry at the security gate.
Avoid visiting during mid-day in summer, as the lack of modern air conditioning in older sections makes the interior uncomfortable.
Closed on Fridays.
Modest clothing is required; shoes must be removed before entering specific interior galleries.
