Raj Bhawan Nainital

Raj Bhawan Nainital, also known as Lok Bhavan or Governor's House, is a historic British-era building constructed in 1897. Designed in Gothic architecture resembling Buckingham Palace, it served as the summer residence for British Governors and now functions as the official summer retreat of the Governor of Uttarakhand. The estate spans over 205 acres featuring manicured gardens, a vintage golf course, and colonial structures.

Visitors can explore the exterior grounds of this sprawling colonial estate, including lush gardens surrounded by Deodar and Oak trees. Guided tours provide access to select areas such as the main entry hall. The property features a historic 18-hole golf course and offers panoramic views of the Kumaoni landscape. Access to interior rooms is restricted, with visitors typically touring in groups.

Constructed between 1897 and 1899 during the British era as the Government House for the Governor of North-Western Provinces. It served as the summer capital residence for the United Provinces before independence. Post-independence, it became the summer retreat for the Governor of Uttar Pradesh and later Uttarakhand. Sarojini Naidu was the first post-independence Governor to reside here.

Represents British colonial architectural heritage in the Kumaon region. The building reflects the Gothic European design patterns introduced during the British Raj and serves as a symbol of the administrative history of the region.