Raj Bhavan
A majestic colonial residence offering historical tours and stunning sunrise views, blending heritage with natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness a magical sunrise.
Raj Bhavan
Best Time
Witness a magical sunrise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic colonial residence offering historical tours and stunning sunrise views, blending heritage with natural beauty.
"Experience the regal charm and historical grandeur of Raj Bhavan, a true gem in the heart of the city."
🎯 Book Sunrise Tour Early
Limited slots for Mumbai's sunrise tour! Book online via the official website ASAP. 🎟️
💧 Carry Water & Cap
Essential for the early morning Mumbai sunrise tour. Stay hydrated and comfortable. :droplet:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 642 reviews
Type
Government Office
Website
rajbhavankolkata.gov.inHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Over the Arabian Sea
Raj Bhavan, Mumbai
Witness a breathtaking sunrise with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. A truly magical start to your day.
+1
Colonial Architecture
Raj Bhavan, Kolkata
Explore the majestic neoclassical mansion, a testament to British colonial grandeur and architectural brilliance.
Historical Significance
Raj Bhavan, Kolkata
Immerse yourself in centuries of history, from its days as Government House to its role in India's past.
Lush Greenery and Flora
Raj Bhavan, Mumbai
Wander through 47 acres of serene gardens, rich in flora and fauna, offering a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
+1Sunrise Tour Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Sunrise Tour Early
Limited slots for Mumbai's sunrise tour! Book online via the official website ASAP.
💧 Carry Water & Cap
Essential for the early morning Mumbai sunrise tour. Stay hydrated and comfortable.
📸 Phone Camera OK
Phone cameras are generally permitted for photos in Mumbai. Check rules for gimbals.
🚇 Nearest Station (Mumbai)
Charni Road is recommended for early morning visits. Take a taxi or bus. :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Sunrise Tour Early
Limited slots for Mumbai's sunrise tour! Book online via the official website ASAP.
💧 Carry Water & Cap
Essential for the early morning Mumbai sunrise tour. Stay hydrated and comfortable.
📸 Phone Camera OK
Phone cameras are generally permitted for photos in Mumbai. Check rules for gimbals.
🚇 Nearest Station (Mumbai)
Charni Road is recommended for early morning visits. Take a taxi or bus. :train2:
💰 Nominal Entry Fee
Expect a small fee for tours, around Rs. 150-199 for Mumbai's sunrise experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Raj Bhavan for its majestic colonial architecture, serene green spaces, and historical significance. The sunrise tours in Mumbai are a highlight, offering breathtaking views. However, limited access and the need for advance booking can be a drawback for spontaneous visitors.
"Raj Bhavan stands proud, elegant, and green. The lawns, colonial architecture, stately trees—it carries majesty without pomp. Just walking its perimeter or seeing it from outside gives a sense of heritage, calm, and regal peace in busy city streets."
Local Guide
"The Raj Bhavan, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, is the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal. It is a majestic building with a rich history.
History
Built in 1803, it was known as Government House during the British Raj. It served as the official residence of the Viceroy of India until 1911 when the capital shifted from Calcutta to Delhi. After that, it became the residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Bengal. Since Indian independence in 1947, it has been the Raj Bhavan.
Architecture
The Raj Bhavan is a grand neoclassical building designed by Captain Charles Wyatt. It is spread over an area of around 84,000 square feet and is surrounded by a sprawling compound of 27 acres. The building has a central block with two wings on either side. The facade features a portico with Doric columns and a pediment. The building is decorated with fretwork and plasterwork.
Interesting Facts
* The Raj Bhavan has six gateways, each with a unique design.
* The building houses several grand halls, including the Marble Hall, which is used for state functions.
* The Raj Bhavan also has a number of beautiful gardens and fountains.
Visiting the Raj Bhavan
The Raj Bhavan is not open to the public for general visits. However, special permission can be obtained from the office of the Governor to visit the building."
Debasish Kumar Baidya
"Location: Situated in the heart of Kolkata, close to Dalhousie and next to the Eden Gardens.
History:
Constructed between 1799 and 1803 by Marquis Wellesley, then Governor-General of India.
Served as the official residence for Governors-General and Viceroys until the capital shifted to Delhi in 1912.
Has been the residence of the Governor of West Bengal since India gained independence in 1947.
Architecture and Size:
Modeled after Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire, England.
A neoclassical mansion covering 27 acres with 84,000 square feet of floor space.
Features tall, wrought-iron gates adorned with lions and is surrounded by formal gardens.
Contains about 60 rooms, including the Throne Room, Banquet Hall, and various suites.
In 2017, some suites were renamed after prominent Indian figures like Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and others.
Current Status and Features:
Currently, C. V. Ananda Bose is the Governor of West Bengal, residing in Raj Bhavan.
Houses the Governor's Secretariat, led by the Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor.
Undergone various renovations and restorations over the years to maintain its grandeur and adapt to modern needs, including a rooftop rainwater harvesting system and a medicinal herbal garden.
Considered the largest Raj Bhavan in India.
Offers public tours by appointment, allowing visitors to explore the historical building and its premises."
Pranay Mukherjee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
For early morning visits to Raj Bhavan Mumbai, Charni Road station is recommended. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus if available. The reporting time is usually around 6:00 AM.
Raj Bhavan in Kolkata is centrally located near Dalhousie and Eden Gardens. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available to reach this historic landmark.
While the exact entry points might vary, tours typically involve designated access. It's best to follow the instructions provided during your booking confirmation.
Yes, public transport options like local trains and buses are available for both Kolkata and Mumbai locations, with specific stations recommended for early morning tours in Mumbai.
For the popular sunrise tour in Mumbai, timings are typically from 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Raj Bhavan tours, especially the sunrise tour in Mumbai, must be booked online in advance through the official Raj Bhavan website.
The entry fee for tours is nominal. For the Mumbai sunrise tour, it's around Rs. 150 to Rs. 199 per person.
Generally, there are no specific age restrictions mentioned for general tours. However, it's always advisable to check the official website for any specific guidelines.
On-the-spot ticket availability is highly unlikely due to the limited slots and advance booking requirement. It's crucial to book online beforehand.
The ticket typically grants access to specific areas of Raj Bhavan for a guided tour, including the historical grounds and architectural marvels.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
Phone cameras are generally allowed for personal use. However, for professional photography or videography, including gimbals, you might need special permission.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in sensitive government areas like Raj Bhavan due to security reasons. Always check the latest regulations.
While sharing personal photos is common, avoid capturing or sharing sensitive areas or activities that might be restricted.
The colonial architecture, the sprawling gardens, and the sunrise views (in Mumbai) offer excellent photographic opportunities. +1
Vlogging with a phone camera is usually acceptable for personal content. For more extensive filming, inquire about specific permissions beforehand.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Raj Bhavan in Kolkata was built between 1799 and 1803. The Mumbai counterpart also boasts significant historical architecture.
Raj Bhavan in Kolkata is a grand neoclassical building, modeled after Kedleston Hall in England. Mumbai's Raj Bhavan also features colonial-era architecture.
During the British Raj, Raj Bhavan in Kolkata was known as Government House.
The Kolkata Raj Bhavan occupies 27 acres with 84,000 sq.ft of floor space. The Mumbai Raj Bhavan is spread over 47 acres.
Raj Bhavan has been a seat of power, serving as the residence for Governors-General and Viceroys, and later for the Governor of West Bengal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit