About the Festival
The annual Neermahal Water Festival is one of Tripura’s most anticipated cultural and heritage celebrations, taking place at Melaghar in Sepahijala district from October 7 to 9, 2026. Centred around the fairytale royal mansion of Neermahal ("Water Palace") and the expansive waters of Rudrasagar Lake, this three-day extravaganza seamlessly merges age-old folk traditions with thrilling aquatic competitions.
Organised annually to highlight Tripura's natural splendor and rich cultural heritage, the festival underscores the profound relationship between Rudrasagar Lake and the everyday lives of surrounding communities. Drawing thousands of tourists, sports enthusiasts, and cultural lovers to Melaghar, the event serves as a vibrant platform for local artisans, rowers, and performers.
At a Glance
Festival Highlights & Competitions
🛶 Traditional Boat Races
The crowning jewel of the festival is the traditional longboat racing across Rudrasagar Lake. Dozens of local rowing teams compete in high-octane races cheered on by thousands of spectators along the bank and palace terraces.
🏊 Open Water Swimming
Competitive swimming events take place in the pristine waters of the lake, attracting seasoned swimmers and young athletes testing their stamina in open waters.
🎭 Manasamangal & Cultural Shows
Evenings come alive with traditional Manasamangal recitations, folk music, classical dance renditions, and vibrant theatrical performances portraying Tripura’s rich mythology and royal legacy.
🧘 Lakeside Yoga Competitions
Promoting holistic wellness and traditional Indian art forms, morning yoga demonstrations and competitive sessions take place against the backdrop of the palace minarets.
About Neermahal — The Water Palace
Neermahal (literally meaning "Water Palace") is a picturesque fairytale royal mansion situated right in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, located 53 km south of Agartala in Melaghar. Built in 1930 A.D. by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya as his royal summer residence, it stands as one of eastern India’s finest architectural wonders.
🏰 Architectural Marvel & Mughal Influence
Inspired by the Mughal style of architecture, Neermahal features dome-shaped minarets, fortified ramparts, and ornate balconies that cast a mesmerizing reflection on the placid waters of Rudrasagar Lake. Viewing Neermahal from across the lake evokes comparisons to Rajasthan’s famous ‘Jagniwas Palace’ (Taj Lake Palace) in Pichola Lake, Udaipur. The grand ‘Darbar Hall’ inside the palace remains an epitome of past royal grandeur and royal assemblies.
Rudrasagar Lake & Biodiversity
Spanning an area of approximately 5.3 sq. km, Rudrasagar Lake is a declared Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The lake is home to a rich variety of resident fish species and aquatic flora, while serving as an crucial winter refuge for migratory birds migrating from northern regions. The Neermahal Water Festival plays a vital role in raising awareness about preserving this fragile wetland ecosystem.
Plan Your Trip to Melaghar
✈️ By Air
The nearest airport is Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport (IXA) in Agartala, located approximately 53 km from Melaghar. Taxis and direct buses connect the airport to Melaghar in about 1.5 hours.
🚆 By Train
Agartala Railway Station (AGTL) is well connected to major Indian cities including Guwahati, Kolkata, and New Delhi. From Agartala station, regular shared taxis and buses operate to Melaghar.
🚤 Lake Boat Ferry
To reach Neermahal Palace from the Rajghat boat ghat in Melaghar, motorboats and traditional rowboats operate continuously across Rudrasagar Lake throughout the festival days.