Haripur King Palace : A Glimpse into the Sikh Empire’s Grandeur

Haripur King Palace is also known as Haripur Gada or Haripur Garh. It is a significant historical place in Mayurbhanj. It was constructed during the reign of the ancient king named Harihar Bhanj. So, the palace is named after the king. Budhabalanga river encircled the palace from three sides and there is a route straight to Puri on one side. The palace stands as a testament to the Bhanj dynasty. It is one of the best historical and cultural places in Orissa. Its fascinating beauty and historical significance help to make it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts and tourists. Here, the palace gives a chance to take a glimpse into the past and explore the leftovers of the ancient era. There is an antiquarian record that in 1770, the Raj Darbar was inaugurated at Haripur King Palace.

Attraction

Rasikaraya, the brick temple, is the main attraction of the palace. Raja Baidyanath Bhanja constructed the temple for his loving God ‘Rasika Raya.’ The temple is a rare example that was made of brick materials from that time. It is showcasing strong craftsmanship. It is known as the only majestic brick temple in Eastern India. It is a historical place, but the palace was destroyed. Here, you can only see the beauty of the temple, and you can notice the foundation of the palace. The walls are decorated with beautiful stone carvings that tell the story of ancient Mayurbhanj. As the palace is located in the village, the atmosphere is always serene and peaceful. After visiting the place, you must admit that one of the finest stone and brickworks.

History

A powerful Bhanja King named Maharaja Harihara Bhanja discovered the city around 1400 A.D. Then he named the city after himself. The King was searching for a place to secure safety close to the rivers, dense forests, and hills. Bhanja King Vaidyanath Bhanja was successful in defending Mayurbhanj from the Mughal invasion. A scion of the Bhanja dynasty named Raja Baidyanath Bhanja accepted the Vaishnava faith, which was initiated by Rasika Ray. That’s why he built an attractive temple inside the fort in honor of the God Rasika Ray’. Nowadays, the palace is almost ruined, and the temple still stands as a testament to the Bhanja Kings. It’s the first brick-built religious cenotaph of that time, and it is still showcasing the beautiful masterhood. Maharaja Harihar Bhanja had chosen the place for his palace just because of its geographical surroundings. Because Firoz Shah, the Muslim ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty, attacked Khiching in 1361. As the palace is surrounded by rivers on three sides, he found it safe for his palace.

Inside/Outside Views

Outside View : The outside view of the palace represents the destructive part of the ancient grand architecture and craftsmanship. Intricate carvings are displayed into the walls and it stands as a sign of the skilled craftsman of that era. Rasika Raya temple, one of the first brick temple in Eastern India is circumambient the palace.

Inside View : The inside view of the palace is nothing but a relic of the ancient palace. But the place is perfect for doing ethnic photoshoots. Here, you can also witness the beautiful architectural structure of that era. There is a Temple. So people can visit the temple and seek blessings from their devoted God. Here, you can spot the grandeur of the Bhanj kings, such as – spiral staircases, old-world chandeliers, a large collection of books and Persian carpets, and rare oil paintings, which make the palace a living museum. People say that the Bhanj Deo Sisters have turned the palace into a boutique homestay. Five rooms and suites are used to run the boutiques. It is also designed aesthetically by the skilled artisans.

How to Reach

By air: The nearest airport to the Palace is the Biju Patnaik International Palace. It is almost 232 kilometers away from the Palace. From here, you can hire a taxi or cab or any local transport to reach there very easily.

By train: Baripada Railway Station is the closest station to the Palace. It is approximately 42 kilometers away from the Palace. Here, you can get a cab or taxi very easily to go to the place.

By road: Baripada Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand to the Palace. It is around 50 kilometers away from the Palace. From the bus stand, visitors can take any local transport to reach the desired Palace.

Tips for Travellers

The best time to visit Haripur King Palace is from October to June. During winter, the weather remains comfortable and makes it suitable for outdoor activities.
Carry your necessary papers, passport, water bottles & medicines & energy drink.
Please dress according to the weather. Carry enough warm clothes.
Try to get an update on the weather before going there.
Try to eat local cuisine and know their tradition.
Remember to check local guidelines.
Don’t forget to take sun protection.
Show respect as it is a heritage site.
Don’t miss the chance to capture photos.
Try to wear comfortable shoes.
If you visit in the summer times, try to stay hydrated.
It should be noted that you shouldn’t follow Google Maps instructions. Rather, you can ask the locals for better guidance.

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