Dhenkanal Palace

About - Nestled against the gentle slopes of the Eastern Ghats, Dhenkanal Palace is Odisha's only fort-palace and the state's pioneering royal heritage homestay. Built in the late 19th century on the site of a historic fort, it remains the residence of the erstwhile royal family. Blending regal architecture, landscaped gardens and warm hospitality, the palace offers guests an opportunity to experience Odisha's royal legacy from within.
History - Dhenkanal derives its name from the legendary tribal chief Dhenka Sabar, whose memory continues to be revered by the royal family. The original fort gained prominence after successfully resisting the Maratha siege between 1779 and 1781 under Raja Trilochan Mahindra Bahadur, earning the hereditary title of Mahindra Bahadur from the Gajapati of Puri. In 1860, Maharaja Bhagiratha Mahindra Bahadur established the present palace after witnessing a symbolic sight a dove escaping a hawk atop Paniohala Hill which he interpreted as a sign of strength through protection. Successive rulers contributed immensely to education, irrigation, forestry, arts and public welfare, while the palace evolved into a lasting symbol of Dhenkanal's royal heritage.