Nainital Sightseeing - Governors House

This large stately mansion built in 1899 is unusual in that it is the only Raj Bhavan which allows public entry to see the buildings and conservatories on its beautifully maintained grounds. The complex consists of a two-storied mansion with 113 rooms, lush gardens of over 220 acres, a swimming pool and even a golf course. Of course, prior permission is required for those wanting to visit this building. The architectural style is called as Victorian Gothic and the building which bears a striking similarity to the Buckingham Palace was designed by the architect F.W. Stevens. Originally, the Governor's House was built as the summer residence of the Governor of the North West Province. Later on, the Lieutenant Governor of the United Provinces started using it to escape the scorching summer of the plains. In its current form, it serves as the official guest house for the Governor of Uttarkhand and visiting state dignitaries. The Governor's House was earlier also known as Government House.