Rashtrapati Bhavan : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India is an architectural marvel, a monument of majesty and an emblem of India’s vibrant democracy. Located in the capital city of New Delhi, it sets the stage for a memorable experience with its rich history, grandeur and stunning artwork. This blog will give you an indepth look into this iconic structure and its interesting facts, important historical facts, important information and travel guide. So buckle up and get ready to explore this magnanimous marvel.

Interesting Facts About Rashtrapati Bhavan

1. Rashtrapati Bhavan was originally the home of the British Viceroys in India under the British Raj.

2. Rashtrapati Bhavan was designed by a British architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens, who was assisted by Indian architects, Sir Bhashir Vanik and Sir Rajender Lal.

3. The building was completed in 1929.

4. The Rashtrapati Bhavan houses several important national organisations including the Planning Commission, the President’s Secretariat, the Vice President’s Secretariat, the Parliament House, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum.

5. The Rashtrapati Bhavan is the largest residence of any head of state in the world.

6. The Rashtrapati Bhavan consists of four main buildings spread over an area of 330 acres.

7. The estate of Rashtrapati Bhavan has over 340 species of birds.

8. The area surrounding Rashtrapati Bhavan is landscaped with 1,200 species of plants.

9. The Rashtrapati Bhavan has 350 rooms including presidential suites, guest rooms and receptions rooms.

10. Rashtrapati Bhavan has received millions of visitors in its lifetime and has been host to several state visits and international dignitaries.

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History & Information About Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India, located in the city of New Delhi. Built by the British between 1912 and 1929, this enormous, luxurious palace was inspired by European-style architecture, but utilizes Indian building techniques and materials, including pink sandstone.

The idea for Rashtrapati Bhavan was first conceived in 1911 to house the Viceroy and Governor-General of British India. Construction of the building started in 1912 and was completed in 1929, at a cost of $11 million. Over 500 local craftsmen worked on the building for over a decade, producing a masterpiece of construction that incorporated the best of both colonial British and Indian traditions.

The building itself consists of 340 rooms, set in the middle of a sprawling estate of over 130 hectares. Rashtrapati Bhavan is a staggering combination of four wings (each with four stories), open courtyards, stairs, and corridors. Its grand design is highlighted by the impressive Durbar (court) Hall, the massive Central Hall, the Mughal Gardens, and the President’s Estate complete with stone pavilions, terraces, gardens, arches, and fountains.

The building is a haven for art lovers, with original Victorian and Edwardian furniture pieces ornamenting its 22 state rooms. Visitors can also admire the exquisite collection of oil portraits, which includes depictions of all the Viceroys of India.

Rashtrapati Bhavan serves more than a ceremonial purpose, and occasional governmental and state functions are held here. For instance, it houses the Rashtrapati Bhavan art gallery, which showcases both modern and traditional Indian art, the National Archives, and formal ceremonies such as the Republic Day Parade and ceremonial investitures.

The building today, with its majestic gateways, domes, and interiors, stands as a symbol of British-Indian colonial history and modern India. Every year, thousands of visitors come here to take in its grandeur and admire its history.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan

Traveling to Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi can be a memorable experience. This building is the official residence of the President of India and one of the most stunning creations of the British Raj. Here are some tips for an enjoyable visit:

1. Rashtrapati Bhavan is open for guided tours on booking. The tour, which is conducted by the National Council for Educational and Cultural Affairs of India, covers important historic rooms and provides an insight into the history of the building.

2. The tour lasts 90 minutes and requires visitors to arrive at least 15 minutes before its start. Admission fee is INR25 per person.

3. Visitors should ensure to dress modestly. Men should wear trousers, shirt and shoes. Women should be covered from shoulders to toes in both a top and a skirt or trousers.

4. Photography and video recording inside the building are strictly prohibited. No pets, food items or any kind of carry bags and briefcases are allowed inside the building.

5. Rashtrapati Bhavan is located at President Estate Road, Central Delhi. It is well connected by public transport, including the metro. The nearest metro station is the Central Secretariat Metro Station.

6. There is an official souvenir shop near the main gate. It sells souvenirs, souvenir booklets, images and postcards featuring Rashtrapati Bhavan.

7. Visitors can explore the Mughal Gardens, located at the back of the building, once the tour of Rashtrapati Bhavan is completed. This beautiful garden is open during the spring and winter months.

8. Keep in mind that the Mughal Gardens are not open on Mondays and national holidays.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Rashtrapati Bhavan

Q. Where is Rashtrapati Bhavan located?

A. Rashtrapati Bhavan is located in New Delhi, India. It serves as the official residence of the President of India and is spread over an area of 360 acres.

Q. Who designed Rashtrapati Bhavan?

A. The construction of the building was overseen by the British architect Edwin Landseer Lutyens, who designed it in the Indo-Saracenic style.

Q. How many floors does Rashtrapati Bhavan have?

A. Rashtrapati Bhavan has four floors and 340 rooms including halls, guest rooms, offices and staff quarters.

Q. When was Rashtrapati Bhavan built?

A. Construction of Rashtrapati Bhavan began in 1912 and was completed in 1929.

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