The majestic Raj Bhawan or Governor's House is the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal. This magnificent edifice, which was built by the Marquis of Wellesley and resembles to a great extent the famous Kendleston Hall in Britain. This palatial edifice is spread over a sprawling 27 acres of land. This eighteenth century edifice is one of the finest specimen of Victorian architectural grandeur.

Raj Bhawan is not just another colonial left-over mansion of the erstwhile British East India Company. It is a significant estate of stupendous dimension, one which has housed the Governor Generals of the British East India Company. During the eighteenth century till the year 1911, when Kolkata was the capital of British East India Company, Raj Bhawan was the most exclusive address in the whole of India. It has housed twenty-three Governor Generals and Viceroys of the erstwhile British rulers.

The moment you walk into this majestic building, the huge iron gates with sculptures of lion engraved on top, remind you of the grandeur of its rich historical past. With a total floor space of 84,000 Sq.feet, Raj Bhawan without any doubt is a marvel of colonial architecture. As you step into the ground floor, you come across the dazzling Marble Hall. Climb your way upstairs and you will be enthralled by the Throne Room, The Banquet Hall and the Drawing and Dining Rooms. The Banquet Hall which is built around a rectangular shaped open patio, somewhat similar to a Roman courtyard is especially gorgeous. It has an archaic ceiling with recessed panels. The gold embroidered pillars add luster to this magnificent hall. In the days of yore, royal banquets were held here. Even today, the Banquet Hall hosts grand banquets in honor of distinguished dignitaries.

There are four grandiose suites- Prince of Wales Suite, Anderson Suite, Wellesley Suite and Dufferin Suite, all located in four corners of the majestic second floor. The Prince of Wales Suite is tastefully done up with blue wall paint which blends harmoniously with the floor. This suite is meant for the President, Vice-President and the Prime Minister of India.

A recent innovation at Raj Bhawan is the rather pretty herbal garden replete with twelve rare varieties of herbal and wooded plants.

Tourists who have the intention of visiting Raj Bhawan have to take prior permission from the Joint Secretary to The Governor of West Bengal at Raj Bhawan. You would do well to keep your travel agent informed about your desire to visit Raj Bhawan well in advance of your departure.