One of the oldest rajbaris in Bangladesh (dating from around the mid-1700s), the magnificent but dilapidated Natore Rajbari is actually a series of seven rajbaris, four of which remain largely intact. The main block, called Boro Taraf (big palace), is approached via a long avenue lined with impressively tall bottle palms, the white trunks of which resemble temple columns.
To the rear of Boro Taraf is a second block called Chotto Taraf (small palace), consisting of two rajbaris. The principal one faces a pond and is one of the most beautifully proportioned buildings in Bangladesh.
The peaceful and idyllic gardens around the rajbari are as much an attraction as the building itself; bring a picnic to eat in the shade of a gnarled old tree. There are several large ponds here that form an interesting centrepiece, around which are a couple of Hindu temples, one dedicated to Kali, one to Shiva. Both are still used by the many Hindus in the area and attract the odd sadhu (itinerant holy man), unusually for Bangladesh.
Natore Rajbari is at the northern edge of town. You can walk to it in about half an hour (just keep asking for directions) or take a rickshaw (Tk 10 to Tk 20).
