I have always looked at The Rajbari Bawali images on social media platforms with a certain awe in my eyes. The 300-year-old boutique heritage hotel, around 90 minutes away from the city, always wowed me with its old-world charm, its white facade, the courtyard with the stairs and the Bengali zamindari food images. So when I got an opportunity to visit the stunning property, I was not only thrilled but I had almost a list of things I would do when I got there, which I had seen many others do on their visit. Little did I know that I would not only end up doing those but would also discover so much more that the property offers.
Besides the various category of suites that faces the courtyard, there’s Dak Bungalow too which is tucked away in a corner of the estate, surrounded by trees, the pond and is closer to nature.
Ajay Rawla
It took seven years of restoration to make The Rajbari what it is now. Ajay Rawla, owner of the property and a man of impeccable taste, got masons from Murshidabad, procured Burma Teak from old colonial homes for flooring, cast iron pieces from north Calcutta and so on. “I came across The Rajbari Bawali while exploring the temples nearby nine years ago. It was in a state of ruin and was uninspiring from the outside. The Rajbari had an Angkor Vat-like appearance. Banyan trees had taken hold of the building in many sections and had destroyed the roof and walls of several wings. Despite the damage that was wrecked by time and neglect, there was a haunting romance about the place that I fell in love with. When I look back now, I have a smile on my face because I have now been able to showcase and share the wonders of our beautiful Bengal. The Rajbari Bawali has now become a destination not just for weekend getaways but also for weddings, shootings, staycations and so much more,” said Rawla.
It rained incessantly on the days I was there; you might think it ruined my stay but trust me, enjoying a rainy day sitting at The Rajbari Bawali has a different romance to it.
Kick-start your day with a unique experience of a fabulous breakfast set up in the pool! How cool is that! The breakfast spread is impressive and if you wish to eat something specific, the courteous chefs and staff would happily oblige.
Soak in the rich culture and tradition of Bengal and other parts of the country with mesmerising performances by various artistes. From sandhya aarti to baul songs, they offer unique and different experiences.
Pet friendly! Yes, you read it right. Rajbari Bawali offers what many star properties don’t yet — allow your pets to tag along with you for a staycation. After all, how many times have we left our furbaby behind because they are not allowed in most of the hotels and resorts in the city? Now you can enjoy your getaway with your pawsome friends by paying a nominal charge.
Looking for an open-air and safe place to celebrate your parents’ 50th anniversary? The Rajbari Bawali has you sorted with their bespoke dining experience right next to the stunning pond that blends luxury with nature. You can curate a desired menu and theme upon discussion with the staff at the property.
A trip to the property is incomplete if you do not dig into their famous Zamindari Thali. But did you know that they have a delicious Asian and continental menu too? We pigged out at The Piano Room but if you are looking to have a private meal with a close group of 10, The Thakurdalan will charm you with its brick walls, sombre lighting and great food.
The Rajbari Bawali and weddings go hand-in-hand. The Lotus Pavilion is a large sit-out area which is ideal for weddings and big gatherings in winter, while there are other stunning pockets in the property for intimate weddings too. The old boutique hotel built in Greco-Roman style also makes a great venue for pre-wedding shoots.
Raise your hand if you are a working couple and have been caught up in the rat race which life has to offer, leaving you no time to spend with your partner. At The Dungeon, you can just take a break and let a romantic evening session with nibbles and exotic cocktails amp up the chemistry between you and your partner. The mood, the lighting, music... everything will calm you down.
The pandemic has made us fall in love with open-air spaces like never before. And if you are a sucker for alfresco like me, you will love The Rooftop Cafe. Watch the sun go down, or just enjoy a cuppa with a book on the terrace that’s filled with so much greenery — bougainvillea, frangipani, different kinds of lilies and more.
One of our fave F&B outlets at the property is The Verandah. With one side having huge glass windows, it offers a bird’s eye view of the staircase and the courtyard. The other highlight? They have live acoustic band performances every evening, which you can enjoy from The Verandah too. The dim lights and great music make it a memorable experience.
Pictures: Rajbari Bawali