Governor's House Nainital
A stunning British-era Gothic marvel, the Governor's House offers a glimpse into colonial grandeur with its castle-like architecture and expansive est...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Governor's House Nainital
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning British-era Gothic marvel, the Governor's House offers a glimpse into colonial grandeur with its castle-like architecture and expansive estate.
"A must-visit for architecture lovers, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into Nainital's colonial past."
🎯 Entry Fee & Timings
Entry is ₹50 per person. Tours run in batches from 11 AM to 3 PM. Arrive early!
🚫 No Photography Inside
Cameras and photography are not allowed inside the main building. Enjoy the moment!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Architecture
Main Building
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture, reminiscent of a Scottish castle and Buckingham Palace.
Expansive Estate
Grounds
Explore the sprawling 220-acre estate, featuring manicured gardens and a golf course.
Colonial History
Interior (Guided Tour)
Gain insights into its past as a summer residence for British governors during guided tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Architecture & History Enthusiasts Rejoice
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Entry Fee & Timings
Entry is ₹50 per person. Tours run in batches from 11 AM to 3 PM. Arrive early!
🚫 No Photography Inside
Cameras and photography are not allowed inside the main building. Enjoy the moment!
🚶 Guided Tours Available
A guide will explain the history and architectural details. Very informative!
🏰 Architecture Lover's Dream
If you admire architecture, this British-era building is a must-visit. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Entry Fee & Timings
Entry is ₹50 per person. Tours run in batches from 11 AM to 3 PM. Arrive early!
🚫 No Photography Inside
Cameras and photography are not allowed inside the main building. Enjoy the moment!
🚶 Guided Tours Available
A guide will explain the history and architectural details. Very informative!
🏰 Architecture Lover's Dream
If you admire architecture, this British-era building is a must-visit.
🌳 Explore the Estate
The estate is vast (220 acres) with beautiful gardens. Take your time to wander.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Governor's House for its stunning British-era Gothic architecture and well-maintained expansive grounds. The guided tours offer valuable historical insights, making it a worthwhile stop for architecture and history enthusiasts. However, the short duration of the interior tour and the restriction on photography inside are noted drawbacks.
"Rs.50/ head entry fee for a 10-15mins trip with a guide at the ground floor of this British made building...said to be a replica of the Buckingham palace, London. Built in 1897, this house is now owned by the Government of Uttarakhand. This was used as a summer residence and the estate is spread over 220 acre of area with a golf course in 45 acre of land"
Sanghita Dasgupta
"You can visit the Governor’s House if you are a lover of architecture.
It is well-maintained and built in a UK-style construction.
A guide is available to explain the details.
Cameras and photography are not allowed.
Time slots are available for each batch.
Overall, it was a good experience."
RESHMA SHAJI
"Raj Bhavan, also known as the Governor’s House, is a historical and architectural landmark in Nainital, Uttarakhand. It serves as the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand and is a must-visit attraction for its stunning architecture, lush green surroundings, and historical significance. Raj Bhavan is a magnificent example of Gothic-style architecture, modeled after Buckingham Palace in London.•
The building was constructed in 1899 during the British era and was originally the summer residence of the British Governor of the North-Western Provinces.
The estate spans over 220 acres, with the main building consisting of 113 rooms.•
It is surrounded by manicured gardens, dense forests, and a well-maintained golf course."
Nagesh Jathar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Governor's House (Raj Bhawan) is located just 2-3 km from Nainital's Mall Road, making it easily accessible. You can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the vicinity. It's a short drive from Naini Devi Temple and Naini Lake.
No, it's quite close! It's situated only about 2.9 km away from the Naini Devi Temple, making it a convenient addition to your Nainital itinerary.
Taxis are readily available in Nainital and can take you directly to the Governor's House. Local buses might also be an option, but taxis offer more convenience.
While it's only a few kilometers, the walk might be uphill and take some time. Taking a taxi or auto-rickshaw is generally recommended for comfort and speed.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors arriving by private vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Governor's House Nainital is ₹50 per person. This fee typically covers a guided tour of the ground floor and the estate.
The visiting hours are generally from 11 AM to 3 PM, with tours conducted in batches. It's advisable to check the exact timings upon arrival as they can sometimes vary.
Advance booking is usually not required. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entry point. Tours are conducted in batches, so arriving a bit early is recommended.
Entry is typically restricted to guided tours, and photography inside the main building is not permitted.
Yes, it is generally open on weekends, but it's always a good idea to confirm the timings, especially during peak tourist seasons. Weekdays are often less crowded.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
Unfortunately, photography and videography are not allowed inside the main building of Governor's House. You can take pictures of the exterior and the grounds.
A typical visit, including the guided tour, lasts about 10-15 minutes for the interior. However, you can spend more time exploring the expansive grounds and gardens.
Yes, a guided tour is usually included with the entry ticket. Guides are available to share historical facts and architectural details about the building.
Governor's House is a magnificent example of Gothic-style architecture, built in a European pattern and often compared to Buckingham Palace or a Scottish castle. +2
You'll see the impressive exterior, beautiful gardens, and the historical ground floor of the building during the guided tour. The estate also features a golf course.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food or dining facilities within the Governor's House premises. You'll need to explore the nearby Mall Road or other areas in Nainital for dining options.
While there are no specific restrictions mentioned, it's best to consume your own food outside the main building and gardens to maintain the pristine condition of the heritage site.
Mall Road, which is very close to Governor's House, offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider it a quick stop to appreciate history and grand buildings. Pack some snacks and water, as there are no food facilities on-site. The open grounds provide space for kids to move around after the tour, making it a pleasant, albeit short, family outing.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Take your time to absorb the details of the building's exterior and the expansive estate. The 220-acre property, including gardens and a golf course, speaks volumes about the grandeur of the era. This visit offers a deep dive into Nainital's past and its significance during the British Raj.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The manicured gardens and the vast estate also provide beautiful backdrops. Focus on capturing the scale of the building against the natural beauty of Nainital. The surrounding landscape offers plenty of picturesque spots to complement your architectural shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into British Colonial Architecture
Visitors can experience this architectural marvel through guided tours, which typically cover the ground floor and provide historical context. While photography inside is prohibited, the exterior and the surrounding grounds offer ample opportunities to appreciate the intricate details and the sheer scale of the construction. The estate's design emphasizes symmetry and a regal presence, characteristic of colonial administrative buildings.
The 220-acre estate is a significant feature, encompassing manicured gardens, dense forests, and even a golf course. This expansive layout not only provided a serene environment for the governor but also showcased the British ambition to establish grand administrative centers in the hill stations. Exploring these grounds offers a peaceful retreat and a different perspective on the Governor's House's historical significance.
Navigating Your Visit: Tickets, Timings, and Etiquette
When it comes to etiquette, the most crucial rule is the prohibition of photography and videography inside the main building. This is to preserve the historical integrity and ambiance of the interior. While you can capture the stunning exterior and the beautiful gardens, be mindful of this restriction.
The guided tour itself is a highlight, offering valuable insights into the history, architecture, and former occupants of the house. The guides are usually knowledgeable and can answer questions, making the visit both educational and engaging. The entire experience, from entry to exploring the grounds, can be completed within an hour or so, making it an ideal stop for those looking for a focused historical and architectural experience.
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