Bhubaneswar: The historic palaces and royal estates of Odisha are opening their doors to travelers, turning centuries-old heritage into captivating boutique retreats. Spearheaded by former royal families, these heritage properties offer guests an authentic blend of architectural elegance, cultural immersion, and personalized hospitality.
The Odisha Travel Bazaar highlighted the state’s royal heritage through a dedicated pavilion showcasing Heritage Palace Homestays of Odisha. The initiative brought together several restored palaces and historic estates that now operate as heritage hotels and homestays, aiming to attract domestic and international travelers.
Among the prominent destinations leading this movement is the Belgadia Palace in Mayurbhanj. Restored as an art deco sanctuary, the palace has gained significant attention for seamlessly blending modern boutique comfort with local traditions. Guests staying at Belgadia Palace can explore the nearby Similipal Biosphere Reserve, witness Mayurbhanj Chhau performances, and interact with regional artisans, making it a major attraction for conscious travelers.
Nestled in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, The Belgadia Palace has transformed into a leading model for heritage tourism, attracting domestic and international travelers with its blend of royal history, classical architecture, and eco-conscious hospitality. Built in the 19th century by the rulers of the Bhanj Deo dynasty, the ancestral home of the Mayurbhanj royal family showcases classical Victorian and Greek Revival architecture featuring grand Corinthian columns, deep verandas, and expansive manicured grounds.
Restored and opened to guests by members of the royal family, Princesses Mrinalika and Akshita M. Bhanjdeo, the palace operates as a boutique heritage retreat while preserving its domestic warmth and historical authenticity. The double-storey property houses rare period furniture, family heirlooms, Persian carpets, and vintage artworks, offering visitors an immersive look into the living legacy of one of Odisha’s most progressive former princely states.
Beyond providing aristocratic hospitality, Belgadia Palace acts as a vibrant cultural nexus that actively promotes regional arts, crafts, and sustainable community initiatives. Guests staying at the property are encouraged to explore local traditions, including performances of the traditional Mayurbhanj Chhau dance, visits to artisan settlements practicing ancient Dokra metal casting, and interactions with local weavers and craftspeople creating Sabai grass products.
The palace also benefits from its strategic location near Baripada, serving as a tranquil gateway to the neighboring Similipal Biosphere Reserve. Visitors frequently use the property as a base to explore Similipal’s national park, dramatic waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a destination for eco-tourists, nature lovers, and cultural explorers alike.
Through its focus on sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community engagement, Belgadia Palace continues to play a pivotal role in positioning northern Odisha on the global heritage travel map, demonstrating how restored royal estates can drive regional tourism growth.
Another key heritage stay is Dhenkanal Palace, located at the foothills of the Megha Hill range. Known for its sprawling courtyards and classical colonial architecture, the palace allows visitors to experience life in a royal household while exploring the surrounding Dhokra craft villages, weavers’ settlements, and religious sites like the Joranda Monastery.
Further adding to Odisha’s royal homestay landscape is Killa Dalijoda, a colonial-era hunting lodge converted into a secluded retreat near Cuttack. Surrounded by forests and nature reserves, Killa Dalijoda provides specialized itineraries focused on birdwatching, nature walks, and visits to nearby tribal and craft villages.
Similarly, Gajlaxmi Palace in Dhenkanal offers an offbeat retreat nestled within nature. Constructed in the 1930s, the estate combines wildlife views, home-cooked regional cuisine, and proximity to local cultural hotspots. Other historic estates across the region, including Killa Aul Palace and Kalahandi Palace, are also participating in the broader push to showcase Odisha’s aristocratic legacy through sustainable tourism.
By preserving their family estates and hosting visitors from across the world, the custodians of these palaces are creating a distinct niche for Odisha on the global heritage travel map.