Rajnagar: The Forgotten Historical Treasure of Bihar, India
India is full of hidden treasures, places most people haven’t even heard of.
As travelers, sometimes we stumble upon these forgotten wonders, and it’s like walking into the past.
One such place is Rajnagar in Bihar. This town, once brimming with royal grandeur, was hit by a devastating earthquake that nearly wiped it off the map. Yet, if you look closely, you’ll find remnants of its majestic past.
Rajnagar, located in Madhubani district, just 50 km from Darbhanga and 190 km from Patna, deserves a spot on every explorer’s list.
The Story of Rajnagar: A Royal Legacy
Rajnagar, often called the 'Lutyens of Bihar,' was developed by Maharaja Rameshwar Singh as a royal city for his younger brother. The town was filled with palaces, temples, and even a secretariat. But after the 1934 earthquake, much of it was destroyed. Despite the destruction, Rajnagar still holds onto its royal essence, with many ruins worth visiting.
What to Explore in Rajnagar?
1. Naulakha Palace
This palace was once the pride of Rajnagar, named because it cost nine lakh rupees to build. While much of it has crumbled over time, you can still see its stunning architecture and imagine what it must have looked like in its prime. A visit to Rajnagar is incomplete without seeing the Naulakha Palace.
2. Durga Temple
Just beside Naulakha Palace is the Durga Temple, known for its beautiful idol of Goddess Durga, carved out of marble. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and murals, showing the artistry of the time. Whether you’re religious or not, this temple is a must-see for its historical and artistic value.
3. The Secretariat
This grand complex was built for administrative purposes and later handed over to a university. The entrance is flanked by two large cement elephants, a quirky addition that survived the 1934 earthquake, standing tall even today.
4. Kali Temple
Another gem is the Kali Temple, located by the Gangasagar Pond. The temple features stunning Mithila artwork and has inscriptions in Sanskrit. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate architecture and cultural heritage.
5. Don’t Miss Madhubani
Only 14 km away, Madhubani is famous for its Mithila paintings. The streets and houses are a canvas for local artists, showcasing this beautiful traditional art form. If you visit Rajnagar, a side trip to Madhubani is highly recommended.
How to Get to Rajnagar?
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Darbhanga, 47 km away. From there, it’s easy to hire a cab to reach Rajnagar.
- By Train: The closest station is Rajnagar itself, only 2 km from the main town. Darbhanga and Madhubani stations are other options.
- By Road: If you’re driving, Rajnagar is about 50 km from Darbhanga and is accessible via Patna and Muzaffarpur.
Accommodation Options
Rajnagar is a small town with limited places to stay, but nearby Madhubani has several options that fit all budgets. Winter is the best time to visit, as the weather is perfect for exploring this historic town.
Although Rajnagar may be in ruins today, its history still lingers in the air. For those with a heart for adventure and a love for untold stories, Rajnagar is a place that deserves to be remembered, not forgotten.
Rajnagar: The Forgotten Historical Treasure of Bihar