Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan is a magnificent classical structure showing off British imperialism with massive columns, verandahs, balconies incorporated with typical Indian motifs such as Buddhist railings, chhatris (umbrella like structures adorning roof tops), jalis (perforated stone screens with intricate designs) and chhajjas (stone slabs fixed below the roof ) in between. Besides the extensive use of elephant motifs in the huge cast iron gate, pillars and basement, Indian temple bells are also integrated in its pillars. The most obvious Indian feature is the massive dome. Overall  the building has been described as a masterpiece of symmetry, discipline, silhouette and harmony.

To the west of Rashtrapathi Bhavan there is the elegant Mughal Gardens also designed by Lutynes. The garden which occupies an area of 13 acres, is divided into three sections (rectangular, long and circular gardens) and is a blend of the formal Mughal style with the design of a British Garden. The garden with Mughal style canals, fountains and terraces at different levels with flowering shrubs and Western style lawns, hedges and flower beds is a visual treat especially during the blossoming season. The garden grows a variety of trees and flowers like roses, marigold, bougainvillea, sweet william, viscaria etc among many others. To the east lies the Great Court, a vast court with a massive Jaipur Column of red sandstone topped with a bronze lotus and six pointed glass star of India, in the centre. Along with the above, the Presidential estate in all is spread over an area of 354 acres with nine tennis courts, a polo ground, a 14-hole golf course, a cricket field and a grove of trees of different species. 

Nearby, on either sides of the Raisina hill are the two Secretariat blocks designed by Herbert Baker. The Parliament House or the Sansad Bhavan lies to the north east of the Rashtrapathi Bhavan. The spacious plaza at the foot of the Rashtrapati Bhawan is known as Vijay Chowk.

Visitors require special permission from Government of India Tourist Office to enter Rastrapathi Bhavan.The Mughal garden is open to the public only in the month of February when the flowers are gloriously in bloom The timings are from 9.30 A.M. to 2.30 P.M. on all days except Mondays. Every Saturday at 10.30 am, mounted and un-mounted troops parade in full uniform, at the front of the gates of the Secretariat and the Rashtrapathi Bhavan which is worth attending.

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