Brij Rama Palace, perched above Darbhanga Ghat, is one of the oldest and most treasured riverfront landmarks of Varanasi. Originally constructed in 1812 by Shridhara Narayana Munshi, a minister to the Nagpur estate, the sandstone palace is a magnificent example of Maratha architecture. The adjacent ghat, initially named Munshi Ghat after him, was renamed Darbhanga Ghat when the palace was acquired in 1915 by Maharaja Rameshwar Singh Bahadur of Darbhanga.
The palace later incorporated Greco-Roman architectural features added by the Darbhanga rulers, blending with its original Maratha influences. Notable for its carved stonework, expansive courtyards, and hand-painted ceilings, the palace also housed one of South Asia’s earliest lifts, installed in 1918. This was a symbol of its aristocratic grandeur. The current elevator replaces the historic original.
Brij Rama Palace seen from the Ganga
After decades of decline, a painstaking restoration began in the early 1990s, culminating in the palace’s reopening as a luxurious five-star heritage hotel in 2016. The restoration carefully preserved the intricate frescoes, wooden ceiling fans, and detailed stone carvings while modernizing the amenities for discerning guests.
Historically serving as a fortress-like residence and aristocratic townhouse, Brij Rama Palace is now a boutique hotel that offers a unique arrival experience by boat, honoring the tradition of royal river access. Strategically located between Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika Ghats, it provides guests with captivating views of the Ganges and a great vantage point for witnessing the city’s daily spiritual life—from the dawn aarti to evening processions.
A view of river ganga from the Brij Rama Palace
With 32 exquisitely decorated rooms and suites adorned in Benarasi fabrics and local craftsmanship, Brij Rama Palace offers a luxurious stay that immerses visitors in the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Varanasi. It offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and hospitality that complement the city royal legacy.
