Coochbehar – The Royal Heritage of Dooars

Coochbehar, lying at the eastern edge of Dooars in West Bengal, is more than just a charming town — it is a living museum of royal grandeur, temple traditions, and cultural richness. Once the proud capital of the Cooch dynasty for over 400 years, the town blends history, architecture, and vibrant rural life in a way few places can. Today, Coochbehar stands as both a historical gem and a gateway for travellers exploring the eastern Dooars forests such as Buxa, Jaldapara, and Chilapata.

A Royal Past, Still Alive in Brick and Stone

The name Coochbehar itself comes from the Cooch dynasty, whose kings shaped the political and cultural landscape of the region. After India’s independence in 1947, Coochbehar became part of West Bengal, but it continues to showcase its regal heritage through its palaces, temples, and festivals.

Things to See in Coochbehar

Coochbehar Palace

The crown jewel of the town is the Rajbari, built in 1887 by King Nripendra Narayan Bhup Bahadur. Inspired by the Buckingham Palace and Italian Renaissance style, this red-brick masterpiece blends Indo-Saracenic architecture with Mughal flourishes. Originally three storeys high, the palace lost its top floor during the devastating 1897 earthquake, but it remains an imposing structure covering 4,700 square metres.
Inside, a museum curated by the Archaeological Survey of India displays royal artefacts, photographs, and cultural exhibits. This was also the childhood home of the iconic Maharani Gayatri Devi.

Madan Mohan Temple

A few minutes from the palace lies the sacred Madan Mohan Temple, built in 1889 by King Nripendra Narayan. Dedicated to Lord Krishna as Madan Mohan, it holds deep significance as the royal family’s kul devta. Every winter, the temple becomes the heart of the famous Rash Mela.

Rash Mela

Held every November–December, the month-long Rash Mela is one of North Bengal’s grandest fairs, celebrating the eternal love of Krishna and Radha. Stalls, cultural performances, and religious rituals attract thousands of visitors, making it an unmissable cultural experience.

Gosanimari Rajpat Mound

About 40 km from town lies Gosanimari, the archaeological site of the Kamtapur kingdom’s central citadel. Excavations have unearthed 9th–10th century terracotta and stone sculptures, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s pre-Cooch dynasty history.

Baneswar Shiva Temple

This over 400-year-old shrine, located 10 km from Coochbehar, is famed for its unique Ardhanariswar deity and the temple pond housing massive century-old tortoises, locally known as “Mohan.”

Sitalpati Village of Ghughumari

Coochbehar is renowned for its Sital Pati — cool mats woven from the murta plant. In Ghughumari village, nearly every household is engaged in weaving. Visitors can watch artisans at work and buy intricately patterned mats, some fine enough to feel like silk.

Nearby Places

Coochbehar makes an ideal day trip from nearby Dooars wildlife zones:

• Buxa Tiger Reserve – 40 km

• Chilapata Forest – 30 km

• Jaldapara National Park – 60 km

• Alipurduar Town – 24 km

Best Time to Visit

• October to March – Cool, dry, and ideal for sightseeing (high season).

• April to June – Warm but good for combining heritage tours with Dooars safaris.

• July to September – Lush and green with monsoon rains, but some forest areas remain closed.

Getting There

• By Air: Bagdogra Airport (150 km, ~3.5 hrs) is the nearest major airport.

• By Train: The New Coochbehar (NCB) station connects to major Indian cities. Alipurduar Junction is just 25 km away.

• By Road: Well connected via National Highway from Siliguri and Guwahati.

Where to Stay

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. offers comfortable stays both in Coochbehar town and in nearby forest lodges at Chilapata and Buxa. Stay in the heritage heart of the city or amidst Dooars wilderness — we design your itinerary to combine both.

Contact: 9733300696