Rashtrapati Bhavan Delhi

Explore the magnificent architectural wonder presenting a mixture of Mughal and Western styles. The picturesque and splendid Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi is a major attraction for tourists. Situated on Raisina hill, Rashtrapati Bhavan is where the President of India reside. Its extraordinary architecture, peaceful ambience and beautiful gardens make it one of the major attractions in Delhi.

Background

Rashtrapati Bhavan was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens as the dwelling place for the British Viceroy. It spreads over an area of about 330 acres and features 340 rooms in total. It was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling and was inaugurated in 1931. It was renamed 'Rashtrapati Bhavan' in 1950.

Architecture

The dome of Rashtrapati Bhavan is called 'Chhatri'. Under this large dome rests the main hall 'Durbar Hall', where the President conducts official functions. Measuring about 22.8 m in diameter, the Durbar Hall is where official ceremonies such as the swearing in of the Prime Minister, Cabinet, and the Members of Parliament, or the Arjuna Award ceremony etc. are conducted. The Durbar Hall, Ashoka Hall and the pillars are beautiful examples of traditional Indian art and engravings. The circular stone basins on the top of the palace, statues of elephants, fountain sculptures of cobras in the gardens, and the grilles made from red sandstone (jaalis) are well known for unique Indian designs.

One can spot several bells carved in the columns at the front entrance. These bells were designed with the idea that since these stone carved bells could not ring, the British rule would never come to an end. Despite this, the empire came to an end a brief 16 years later. The beautifully raised 'Jaipur Column' stands in the middle of the main court in front of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. This 145-metre high column was gifted by the Maharaja of Jaipur. Another beautiful structure is the massive neo-Buddhist copper dome.

Apart from all these architectural patterns, Rashtrapati Bhavan is known for its beautiful gardens blooming with a variety of flowers. These gardens are open to public view between mid-February to mid-March. The place is a photographer's paradise during the months of late January to March.

Entrance

One needs to take special permission from the Government of India Tourist Office, to visit the Rastrapathi Bhavan.

How To Reach

Indira Gandhi International Airport is located 23 km southwest and the domestic air terminal at Palam is another 5 km from the international terminal. Taxis and buses are frequently operated.