# Explore Uttarakhand Governor's Historic 126 Year Old Gothic Manor in Nainital for Just 50 Rupees

> The historic Raj Bhavan in Nainital blends British Gothic architecture with lush greenery, allowing tourists to explore the 220-acre estate for just 50 rupees.

**Type:** article · **Category:** Travel · **Published:** 2026-08-21 · **Source:** TrendKia
**Canonical:** https://trendkia.com/en/travel/uttarakhand-ke-nainital-men-mahaja-50-rupaye-ke-tikata-para-dekhen-126-sala-purana-aitihasika-raj-bhavan-19567 · **Language:** English
**Tags:** Nainital, Raj Bhavan Nainital, Uttarakhand Tourism, Gothic Architecture, Uttarakhand News, Nainital Tourism

Nestled amidst the serene pine and deodar forests of Nainital, the historic Raj Bhavan stands as a majestic testament to British-era architectural grandiosity. While most travelers associate the famous lake city primarily with the picturesque Naini Lake and surrounding mountain vistas, this sprawling estate offers a captivating journey through colonial history, natural beauty, and vintage design. Serving as the official residence of the Governor of Uttarakhand, the Raj Bhavan complex provides a tranquil retreat away from the bustling town center, attracting history enthusiasts, photography buffs, and nature lovers seeking peace amidst mountain landscapes.

## Gothic Architecture and Distinctive 'E' Shaped Structure
The architectural charm of the Nainital Raj Bhavan lies in its classical Victorian Gothic revival style. Constructed predominantly with dressed stone, the edifice features towering high ceilings, intricate stone walls, sharp spires, elegant arched windows, and traditional balconies known as jharokhas. Architecturally designed in the shape of the English letter 'E', the building consists of two major structural blocks that highlight the engineering craftsmanship of the late nineteenth century. Foundation work for this grand residence commenced on April 27, 1897, and after nearly three years of meticulous construction, the structure was fully completed in March 1900. The master design of the estate was created by Frederick William Stevens, a renowned British architect whose legacy also includes Mumbai's world-famous Victoria Terminus, currently known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Inside the estate structures, there are a total of 113 rooms that display vintage interior layouts.

## Sprawling 220-Acre Estate and Historic 18-Hole Golf Course
Extending over a massive area of approximately 220 acres, the Raj Bhavan complex is enveloped by dense forests of tall deodar and pine trees, creating a refreshing microclimate and an exceptionally calm environment. The sprawling grounds offer a rare opportunity for visitors to take a peaceful stroll amidst nature while admiring colonial-era structures and capturing scenic photographs. A major highlight of the property is its historic 18-hole golf course, which stretches over nearly 45 acres. Recognized among the oldest and most scenic golfing greens in India, this course hosts the annual Governor's Golf Cup tournament. To encourage sportsmanship among younger generations, a special golf tournament for students was also introduced at the venue in 2015, establishing the site as a prominent destination for sports enthusiasts.

## Historical Timeline: Disasters, Relocations, and Pasture Grounds
The establishment of Raj Bhavan in Nainital carries a rich historical background marked by geographical shifts and structural rebuilds. According to historical accounts documented by historian Professor Ajay Rawat, the initial official governor residence was leased at the Stoneleigh compound in 1864. Subsequently, in 1865, Sir George Cooper constructed Maldon House near the St. Loo area to function as the governor's quarters. However, a catastrophic landslide in 1880 caused extensive damage to Maldon House, forcing British authorities to abandon the unsafe site and search for a more secure location across the hills.

The search eventually led officials to the present site, which was occupied at the time by Sherwood College. To accommodate the new gubernatorial residence, Sherwood College was relocated to another part of the town. Furthermore, the land situated right behind the property was known as Gwalikhet, a traditional grazing area where local shepherds brought their cattle to graze. To construct the grand complex seen today, authorities acquired nearby institutional properties and surrounding land plots, reflecting the dynamic physical transformation of Nainital over the decades. Originally serving as a summer sanctuary for British governors during peak heat, the building now functions as the official home of the Governor of Uttarakhand.

## Visitor Access, Entry Tickets, and Guided Excursions
Beyond its administrative and historical significance, Raj Bhavan remains accessible to tourists under a regulated visiting framework. Entry tickets are priced nominally at just 50 rupees per person, making it an affordable heritage excursion for families and solo travelers. Visitors are conducted through the estate in guided groups, where trained guides explain the intricate architectural elements, historical milestones, and lesser-known anecdotes associated with the property. The guided tour gives tourists a close-up view of nineteenth-century construction techniques, majestic facades, and lush green lawns. Travelers intending to visit the property are advised to verify current visiting hours, entry regulations, and ticket availability prior to finalizing their travel plans.

## What this means for you
**Across India:** Travelers planning a trip to Uttarakhand get an affordable and historically rich alternative to explore beyond the traditional lakes of Nainital.

**In Nainital:** Visitors seeking a quiet retreat away from city crowds can experience a 220-acre green estate and British-era architecture for just 50 rupees.

## Questions & Answers

### 1. How much is the entry ticket to visit Nainital Raj Bhavan?
The entry ticket for tourists to explore the Raj Bhavan campus with a guide is priced at 50 rupees.

### 2. When was the construction of Nainital Raj Bhavan completed?
The foundation stone of this historic building was laid on April 27, 1897, and construction was completed in March 1900.

### 3. Who designed the architecture of Nainital Raj Bhavan?
The estate was designed by renowned British architect Frederick William Stevens, who also designed Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.

### 4. What is unique about the golf course inside Raj Bhavan?
The complex features an 18-hole historic golf course spread over 45 acres, which hosts the annual Governor's Golf Cup tournament.

### 5. How large is the Raj Bhavan campus and how many rooms does it have?
The Raj Bhavan campus covers approximately 220 acres of land and contains a total of 113 rooms across its buildings.

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