The Rajbari Bawali
Restored palace,
Rural tranquillity
Couples,
Families,
Culture Seekers
Around two hours south west of Kolkata in the small village of Bawali, the Rajbari Bawali makes for a peaceful oasis to relax in.
What once was the extravagant headquarters of the Zamindar Kingdom, the stunning structure fell into disrepair after India’s independence as the Zamindars lost much of their wealth, and was left uninhabited for more than 40 years. After being rediscovered by its current owner, the building has undergone a fascinating restoration process which showcases its heritage, history and architectural design.
The Rajbari Bawali is not a modern property, instead it’s a property with charming quirks, beautiful design and a fascinating history behind its walls. It is great for those looking to take a little respite from the hustle and bustle of Kolkata.
Despite being very private and the grounds set back from the village, the property is in the heart of the meandering lanes of Bawali so from time to time you’ll hear the faint and atmospheric sounds of birds roosting, temple ceremonies and general village life. The Rajbari places a heavy focus on the local arts and crafts from the surrounding village communities, and guests can admire many pieces and artefacts throughout the property. In keeping with the aim of preserving local heritage and giving back to the community staff are employed from the local area and as such are not formally trained but are always there to help and assist.
You can spend your time relaxing by the pool, being pampered at the spa or simply wandering around the property and village to admire its beauty and get an insight into rural Bengali life. Guided villages walks, cycles and boat rides are available too. The atmospheric evening Aarti ceremonies and local music demonstrations are definitely worth experiencing.
As for dining, authentic Bengali cuisine is served along with international options in the Durbar Hall on special occasions or in the outdoor Pavilion. For those who are foodies, a cooking demonstration is a must.
The Rooms
There are just 30 rooms and suites and each have high ceilings, four-poster beds and elegant, wooden furnishings. To really savour the atmosphere and character of the property ETG recommends any of the rooms looking on to the main courtyard. The Bungalows dotted around the property are good for families or groups of friends though.
What You’ll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in India
A few of our favourite routes, hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans, just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Darjeeling
Highlights of East India
Little visited and often overlooked, East India is an incredible place: from the spellbinding contrasts of Kolkata to the sleepy waterways of the Sundarbans, the Buddhist culture of Sikkim and the mighty Himalayas.
This journey will enable you to explore Kolkata in depth, before heading south for a lovely tranquil experience in the Sundarbans National Park. While you’re unlikely to spot one of the park’s many tigers, there is a plethora of wildlife here, and it’s a lovely place to spend a few days.
Then it’s back up to Kolkata for an overnight train deep in the Himalayas. East India is an incredible region: the heart of Buddhist culture in India, a land of monasteries, sleepy hill towns, friendly people and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Kolkata
Explore Kolkata, the former capital of British India and a riot of colour, a hub of Bengali culture and an incredibly vibrant place.
Incredible culture
Discover timeless Buddhist monasteries and a highly distinct Sikkim culture.
Khangchendzonga Mountain
Being inspired by the view of the mighty Khangchendzonga Mountain, the third-highest in the world, soaring above the horizon
Gallery
Delhi
East to West: Highlights of the Gangetic Plain
This holiday is for travellers with an adventurous spirit who like to get away from the tourist trail; people who have a desire to explore eclectic, busy and ever-evolving Indian cities, but who also want to contrast immersive city life with some unique, rural experiences.
Take time to delve into Kolkata and Varanasi with our signature experiences in each. You’ll journey by car, train and minimal internal flights so that you can experience the beautiful rural life and landscape of the Gangetic Plain as you move around. You’ll spend four days exploring northern Madhya Pradesh and three days in a remote valley of Uttar Pradesh; allowing completely different rural and wildlife experiences in each.
Highlights
Lunch with an art collector
Taking lunch with an art collector in his home in Kolkata
Sunrise at the River Ganges
Watching the sunrise from your private boat on the River Ganges
Chambal Valley
Experiencing life in remote hamlets of the Chambal Valley
Gallery
The Rajbari Bawali on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
An Epic Adventure Across Southeast Asia
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
