Kanika Palace, Bhitarkanika, Orissa India

Many traditional and royal antiques are still a part of the grand Kanika Palace, which is a silent proof of the glorious history of this region’s golden past. King Rajendra Narayan Bhanjadeo laid the foundation stone of this grand palace in the year 1909 and which subsequently took a period of ten years for completion. These rulers of Kendrapara ruled and preserved this region which is home to one of the most unique eco-system in the Indian subcontinent. A visit to the Kanika Palace elegantly standing as a reminder of the historical past is refreshing and looked upon as a worthy tourist attraction.

The magnificent museum was renovated recently for public display of its treasures, thanks to the efforts  of the scion of the regal family, Shivendra Narayan Bhanjadeo.The palace mirrors the rich tradition of Rajkanika and its outstanding architectural accomplishments centuries ago. The museum is a blend of rare art pieces, paintings, pottery, bronze wares, clocks and court documents.

The 99 centimeter long skull of a slat water crocodile on display at the museum is the world’s largest available crocodile skull. Similarly a giant skull of  an elephant and its foot add to the artifact of the museum. A stuffed tiger is another big attraction of the museum. The Kanika museum also stores valuable art works which were in possession of the royal family for ages. These include paintings, pottery, bronze wares, gold and silver wares, embroidery and sculptures. The court property includes jewels, accessories, clocks, medicines, furniture and furnishings. A variety of exhibits such as portraits of the kings, palanquins, dresses, weapons, royal umbrellas, canopy, a century old billiards table are on display at the museum.

It was a massive palace constructed by King of Kanika, Rajendra Narayan Bhanja Deo during 1909-1910. It was constructed on an area of 4 acres of land and height of the structure is of 75 feet. It is situated in Rajkanika Block and around 45 kilometers from Kendrapara district.
 
The palace is nearly 100 years old and it provides a panoramic view of the countryside and a botanical garden of herbal, medicinal plants and cashew plantation of 84 acres near the Palace. Kanika Museum Trust houses the largest crocodile skull in the world. It also has many hunting trophies and artifacts on display. The Palace has a billiard room, library and other rooms filled with Victorian furniture. The walls are adorned with stencil paintings and stained glasses. It has got 2 huge ponds which provide an ideal ground for fishing and other water sports. It provides an ideal stay to relax and enjoy the adjoining forest and sanctuaries which are a few kilometers away from the spot. The beauty of the palace is unbelievable.