Tajhat Palace | Rangpur

Tajhat Palace is a historical palace located in the Rangpur district of Bangladesh. It is situated on the northern bank of the Ghaghot River.

Visual Characteristics

The palace is a two-story structure constructed primarily from brick and stone. Its architecture exhibits a blend of Mughal and European styles. The facade features arched doorways and windows, decorative cornices, and a central dome. The exterior walls are painted a light ochre color, with white detailing around the openings and roofline.

Location & Access Logistics

Tajhat Palace is located approximately 2 kilometers south of the Rangpur city center. Access is via the Rangpur-Dinajpur Highway (N5). Turn south onto Tajhat Road. Parking is available on-site, with a designated area for vehicles. Public transport options include local auto-rickshaws and buses that run along the highway, with a short walk from the main road to the palace entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The palace was built in the early 20th century, around 1918-1920, by Maharaja Kumar Gopal Lal Roy. It served as the residence of the Tajhat zamindars (landlords). The purpose was to establish a grand administrative and residential center for the estate.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the palace's interior, including its main halls and former residential chambers. The grounds surrounding the palace are also accessible for walking. Photography of the exterior and interior is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the ground floor. Limited shade is provided by the palace structure itself. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available in the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly on the palace grounds; options are available in Rangpur city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is in the late afternoon, approximately 3 PM to 5 PM, when the sunlight provides optimal illumination on the facade. The dry season, from October to March, offers the most pleasant weather conditions for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the palace was named after a crown (taj) that was found on a nearby riverbank (hat), though historical records do not definitively confirm this origin. The palace was once used as the Rangpur Museum, housing artifacts from the region.

Nearby Landmarks

• Rangpur Town Hall (1.5km Northwest)
• Begum Rokeya University (3.0km North)
• Carmichael College (2.5km West)
• Rangpur Zoo (4.0km Southwest)