Rashtrapati Bhawan - A British Masterpiece Exuding Traditional Indian Splendour

Nestled within the middle of Delhi is Indias capital city New Delhi

, teeming with scores of tourist attractions. It is a city that boasts breathtaking and inspiring landmarks representing architectural masterpieces of yesterday and today. New Delhi nestles some of the finest landmarks like the imposing Gateway of India, enthralling Akshardham Temple, bustling Connaught Place and inspiring Lotus Temple.

If you choose to spend a holiday in New Delhi and opt for a city tour there is another key landmark you are bound to come across. Popular as the Rashtrapati Bhawan, this is one of the best masterpieces of the colonial times that adorn the contemporary skyline of New Delhi.

Ruddy courtyard, elongated ponds, refreshing fountains and an ornate lofty fence running right around are backdrops good enough to overwhelm you. As you look further you would notice a slender soaring monument right in the middle capped with a star. This is the Jaipur Column and the star is called the Star of India. And beyond that you will find the magnificent Rashtrapati Bhawan that appears nothing less than a grand palace in the peak of its glory.

In the colonial times under the command of King George V it was decided to move the capital of India from Calcutta to Delhi. The residence of the Viceroy, a palace like no other, was to be built in Delhi inspired with traditional architecture. The British architect Edwin Landseer Lutyens provided the design incorporating myriads of Indian architectural elements to enhance its charisma and resourcefulness.

This building was none other than Rashtrapati Bhawan which was completed in 1929, after 17 years, along with its Mughal Garden adorning the extensive courtyard. The buildings central dome, spanning over 22 metres in diameter, appears to levitate with the support of sparsely placed columns around the porch. Beautiful sculptures of elephants and cobras embellish the walls and fountains of the premises. A special type of frieze adorned with Indian decorations keep the scorching sunlight and monsoon rain from entering the interior.

This mansion snuggles 340 rooms surrounded by charming gardens and green stretches that extends for 130 hectares. It also houses the State Drawing Room, Library, Dining Room, Ballroom, and private apartments.

Today Rashtrapati Bhawan is the very residence of the President of India. Until 1950 it was referred as the Viceroys House and is said to be the biggest residence of a head of a state in the world. You can reach this significant landmark by arriving at the Raisina Hills of New Delhi.

Reserve a New Delhi hotel and tour the city teeming with attractions where wonderful landmarks like Rashtrapati Bhawan are snuggled. If you can splurge a little then try The Leela Palace Kempinski New Delhi offering over 250 rooms complemented with finest creature comforts. Enjoy cosy suites with private pools and an array of stylish dining choices at one of the best Delhi airport hotels. Best of all, this elegant hotel sits within minutes from the central business district, many embassies, exhibition and conference centres and famous tourist attractions.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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