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The Rajbari Bawali, Bawali

India, West Bengal

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The Rajbari Bawali
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Around two hours south west of Kolkata in the small village of Bawali, the Rajbari Bawali makes for a peaceful oasis to relax in, most likely at the beginning or end of your adventure. 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 in order to showcase its heritage, history and architectural design. 

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. 

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 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.  Do note it can get busy at weekends so midweek is best for a quiet stay. 

Superior - This is what we would describe as our standard category. These will be decent 3/4* hotels providing a really good level of service. We would generally expect them to be providing a little something extra, in terms of character, guest experience or facilities too.

Our rating system explained...

Include this hotel as part of your Experience Travel Holiday of a lifetime.

Here are some popular holidays including this hotel or we can create a tailor made holiday, crafted for you.

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Footsteps of The Raj

Explore North and East India visiting the capitals of the British Raj, exploring the countryside and diverse and vibrant cities.

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The Plains of Bengal

Explore the heritage of Bengal on this fascinating adventure, ideal for India second-timers or those looking for something different.

Map centered on The Rajbari Bawali. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.

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020 7924 7133 Get in touch

Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
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  • Holidays in India
    • By Area
      • Rajasthan & the Golden Triangle
      • Southern India Holidays
      • North & Central India
      • Himalaya's & the East
    • By Theme
      • Classic Holidays
      • Ultimate Holidays
      • Wildlife Holidays
      • Off The Beaten Track
      • Insight Holidays
      • Holidays with Beach
      • Family Holidays in India
  • Guide to India
    • Why choose India
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Free Country Guide Download
  • Country Info
    • Travelling Around India - FAQs
    • Overnight in India
    • India's Beaches & Islands
    • Tigers & Wildlife In India
    • Family Holidays in India
  • Regions of India
    • Golden Triangle
      • Delhi
      • Agra
      • Jaipur
      • Ranthambore National Park
    • Rajasthan
      • Jaisalmer
      • Jodhpur
      • Udaipur
      • Rural Rajasthan
    • Golden Temple & Shimla
      • Amritsar
      • Shimla
    • Uttarakhand
      • Rishikesh, Rajaji & Haridwar
      • Corbett National Park
    • Kolkata, Sikkim & North East
      • Kolkata
      • Darjeeling
      • Gangtok
      • Kalimpong
      • Pelling
      • Off-The-Beaten-Track Sikkim
      • Sundarbans National Park
    • Goa
      • Goa Beaches
      • Inland Goa
    • Kerala & The South
      • Cochin
      • The Backwaters
      • Beaches of Kerala
      • Plantations
      • Wildlife & Birding
      • Thalassery
    • Varanasi, Lucknow & Madhya Pradesh
      • Varanasi
      • Lucknow
      • Orchha
      • Maheshwar
      • Bhopal
      • Gwalior
      • Khajuraho
      • Panna National Park
      • Bandhavgarh National Park
      • Tadoba National Park
      • Satpura National Park
      • Pench National Park
      • Kanha National Park
    • Mumbai
    • Andaman Islands
    • Karnataka
      • Bangalore
      • Coorg
      • Nagarhole National Park
      • Mysore
      • Bandipur National Park
      • Hampi
    • Hyderabad
    • Tamil Nadu
      • Chennai
      • Mahabalipuram
      • Pondicherry
      • The Hill Regions
      • The Plains
      • Madurai
  • About us
    • Our Story
    • Our Team
    • Our Reviews
    • Our Press
    • Our brochure
    • Our Blog
  • How it works
    • Why choose us?
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost?
    • Trip planning process
    • Financial protection
    • What happens if something goes wrong on my holiday?
    • Working with in-country partners
    • My Booking
    • Contact Us
  • Holiday Types
    • The Revitalise Collection
    • Immersive Escapes
    • Honeymoons
    • Family Travel
      • Holiday Inspiration by Theme
      • Where to go when
  • Inspiration
    • Inspire me
    • Travel Soon
    • Plan Ahead
    • Month by month weather guide
    • Free Country Guides
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    • Travel Better
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