By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 01, 2026
Agartala, June 1 (FD) The long-awaited transformation of Agartala's historic Pushpabanta Palace into a world-class luxury heritage hotel under the prestigious Taj brand is set to take a significant step forward with a proposed Bhumi Pujan ceremony on June 5. The ceremony is expected to be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his proposed visit to Tripura, along with Chief Minister Manik Saha and other dignitaries.
The redevelopment of Pushpabanta Palace is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious heritage tourism projects undertaken in Tripura. The initiative seeks to seamlessly blend the state's rich royal legacy with modern luxury hospitality standards through a collaboration between the Government of Tripura and the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), which operates the Taj brand.
A landmark of immense historical and architectural significance, Pushpabanta Palace once served as a residence of the erstwhile Tripura royal family and later functioned as the Raj Bhavan. The palace is now being restored and repurposed as a luxury heritage hotel while preserving its distinctive heritage character.
Sources associated with the project said restoration and retrofitting works have already commenced. Special emphasis is being placed on conserving the palace's original architectural features, historical aesthetics and cultural identity while integrating contemporary facilities expected of a world-class five-star hospitality destination.
Upon completion, the Taj Pushpabanta Palace is expected to feature nearly 100 luxury rooms, including four exclusive royal suites and several signature accommodations inspired by the legacy of the Manikya dynasty. The interiors, décor and guest experience are being designed to reflect Tripura's royal traditions, cultural heritage and indigenous craftsmanship.
The heritage hotel is envisioned as a flagship tourism destination for Northeast India, combining regal architecture, cultural authenticity and premium hospitality. Tourism experts believe the project has the potential to place Tripura prominently on India's luxury tourism map and attract discerning domestic and international travellers.
Project officials indicated that the hotel is expected to become operational by October 2028. Apart from enhancing the state's tourism infrastructure, the project is anticipated to generate substantial employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in sectors linked to tourism, hospitality and local handicrafts.
Stakeholders in the tourism sector have described the redevelopment as a landmark initiative that will not only safeguard an important heritage structure but also create a globally recognised destination showcasing Tripura's royal history and cultural richness.
The proposed Bhumi Pujan ceremony will formally mark the commencement of the next major phase of development. With strong support from both the state and central governments, officials are optimistic that the Taj Pushpabanta Palace will emerge as a model for heritage conservation, sustainable tourism and economic growth.
The project is widely viewed as a transformative endeavour that will strengthen Agartala's position on the national and international heritage tourism circuit while ensuring the preservation of one of Tripura's most treasured historical landmarks for future generations. FD JK