Raj Bhavan
Imperial Residence: Raj Bhavan is the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal and was once the seat of the Viceroy of India. Built between 1799 and 1803 during the tenure of Lord Wellesley, it was designed to reflect the grandeur of the British Empire. Wellesley believed that India should be governed from a palace, not a counting house. For over a century, until the capital shifted to Delhi in 1911, this building was the center of British administrative power in South Asia. The building is modeled after Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire, England. It is spread across a sprawling 27-acre estate with manicured gardens and high boundary walls. The interiors are a showcase of colonial luxury, featuring the Throne Room, the Banquet Hall, and the Marble Hall. The Throne Room houses the throne of Tipu Sultan, which is a significant historical artifact. The house has 60 rooms and several grand suites, including the Prince of Wales Suite, which hosts the President and Prime Minister of India today. The building transitioned from the "Government House" to Raj Bhavan after independence. It remains one of the most protected and prestigious landmarks in Kolkata, representing the fusion of British architectural ambition and Indian political history.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 Hours (Exterior view; interiors require permission)Place Type:
Heritage Landmark / Official ResidenceEntry Fees:
Restricted Access: Generally, entry inside the building is free but restricted.
Guided Tours: If organized, they may charge a nominal registration fee of Rs.50-Rs.100. ...Restricted Access: Generally, entry inside the building is free but restricted.
Guided Tours: If organized, they may charge a nominal registration fee of Rs.50-Rs.100.Timing:
Exterior View: Visible 24/7 from the road.
Official Tours: Usually 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM with prior booking on selected days.
Ideal Visit Time: Evening for lighting. ...Exterior View: Visible 24/7 from the road.
Official Tours: Usually 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM with prior booking on selected days.
Ideal Visit Time: Evening for lighting.Best Photo Spots:
North Gate: Offers the most symmetrical and grand view of the entire building.
The Lion Statues: Close-up shots of the majestic lions on the gate arches.
The Portico: Capturing the massive pillars from a ...North Gate: Offers the most symmetrical and grand view of the entire building.
The Lion Statues: Close-up shots of the majestic lions on the gate arches.
The Portico: Capturing the massive pillars from a low angle.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Heritage Walk: Walk around the perimeter of the BBD Bagh area to admire the massive gates and lion statues.
Garden Tour: With prior permission, explore the 27 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.
Photography of the Gates: The six monumental gates are excellent subjects for architectural photography.
Visit the Throne Room: If on a guided tour, see the historic throne of the "Tiger of Mysore.
" Study the Neoclassical Style: Observe the doric and ionic pillars that define the building's exterior.
Witness the Change of Guard: Occasionally, formal ceremonies can be seen from the main gates.
Explore BBD Bagh: Use Raj Bhavan as a starting point to see the Writ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Viceroy’s Legacy: It is famous for being the former home of the British Viceroys and the current residence of the Governor.
Historical Artifacts: The presence of Tipu Sultan’s throne and the Chinese cannons makes it a significant site ...Viceroy’s Legacy: It is famous for being the former home of the British Viceroys and the current residence of the Governor.
Historical Artifacts: The presence of Tipu Sultan’s throne and the Chinese cannons makes it a significant site for history buffs. -
Architecture:
Neoclassical Design: Designed by Captain Charles Wyatt, the building is a Neoclassical masterpiece with Baroque influences. The Dimensions include a massive floor area of 84,000 square feet.
Symmetric Wings: The plan consists of a central...Neoclassical Design: Designed by Captain Charles Wyatt, the building is a Neoclassical masterpiece with Baroque influences. The Dimensions include a massive floor area of 84,000 square feet.
Symmetric Wings: The plan consists of a central core with four radiating wings connected by curved galleries. It features a grand ionic portico on the north side and a metallic dome added in the 1860s. The "Bird Cage Lift" installed by Lord Curzon is a unique architectural curiosity still in use. -
How To Reach:
By Air: 16 KM from the airport. A 45-minute drive.
By Train: 3 KM from Howrah Station. Cross the bridge and you are there.
By Road: Central location in Dalhousie Square.
B... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Writers' Building (0. 5 KM), 2. St. John’s Church (0. 3 KM), 3. GPO (0. 4 KM), 4. High Court (0. 6 KM), 5. Eden Gardens (1 KM), 6. Millennium Park (1. 2 KM), 7. Princep Ghat (2. 5 KM), 8. Metcalfe Hall (0. 8 KM), 9. Currency Building (0. 2 KM), 10. Reserve Bank Museum (0. 3 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: High security area; carry ID. Do not photograph security posts.
Packing: Formal or modest clothing is advised if entering.
Accommodation: Stay near Esplanade or Chowringhee.
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