Raj Niwas of Puducherry: Exploring the Historical Residence and Its Colonial Charm

It is based at a distance of 3.5 km from Pondicherry Bus Station. Raj Niwas is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. It is one of the most important buildings, which once served as a palace during French colonisation and was the official residence of the French Governor Dupleix. Tourists can uncover many hidden places like this with our India travel packages to explore and discover the incredible India.

Raj Niwas in Pondicherry was built during the 18th century and is well-known as the ‘Palais du Government’.One of the major attractions for the tourists is the monolithic pillars, brought from Gingee Fort after it was seized in 1751.

The place has an attractive water monument which is placed inside the middle of a well-maintained garden. It is now the Lieutenant Governor’s residence. Raj Nivas is not open to the public except on a few national holidays like Republic Day.

What Is The History of Raj Niwas Pondicherry ?

Yes, we know how excited you are to visit this awesome place. So, the best time to visit in Raj Niwas is on Wednesdays, and the timings are from 12 to 6:30 PM. The point to remember here is the passes are limited to 40 per day.

The Raj Niwas Pondicherry location is 4, St Martin St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001.

How to reach Raj Niwas Pondicherry ?

Pondicherry is one of those places that will always surprise you with its distinct style. There are several cafes and restaurants serving excellent French cuisine as well as some delicious international cuisines. Pondicherry, as a popular beach town, French war memorial, also has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous clubs and beach parties featuring live music and delectable cocktails. There is so much to see and do here that you will not want to leave without seeing more of this charming French town like other historical places in India.

During the British occupation of Pondicherry in the 18th century, the Governor’s house was used as the residence of the British governor. The British governor was so impressed with the beauty and grandeur of the building that he refused to leave when the French regained control of the colony.

Raj Nivas played an important role in the transfer of Pondicherry to Indian control in 1954. In 1948, the historic building hosted a meeting between the French Governor General, Pierre-Etienne Flandin, and the Indian Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The meeting marked the beginning of negotiations that eventually led to the transfer of Pondicherry to Indian control.

Over the years, Raj Nivas has hosted several notable guests, including Jiddu Krishnamurti, a famous philosopher and writer who stayed there during a visit to Pondicherry. 

• By Train:

The nearest railway station to Raj Niwas is the Puducherry Railway Station, which is around 2 km away. Pondicherry is connected by train to various major cities in India. Tourists can take a train to Pondicherry and then book a taxi or a rickshaw to reach Raj Niwas.

• By Flight:

The closest airport to Raj Niwas is the Chennai International Airport, which is about 135 km away. From there, you can either take a taxi or a bus to Pondicherry, or if available, hop on a connecting domestic flight to Puducherry Airport, which is closer but has limited flight connectivity.

• By Road:

Pondicherry is well-connected by a network of roads, and Raj Niwas can be easily reached by car or bus. Government and private buses are also available.

Things to do at Raj Niwas Pondicherry

Once you enter into the gates of the Raj Nivas, your eyes will be on the white building. You will stare up at the pillars of the building, you will be amazed. 

Raj Niwas Pondicherry has stories of its own. It’s not stagnant or steeped in time, or frozen in its heritage. It evolved itself, making for a progressive workplace. During the visiting hours, visitors can walk through the Raj Nivas and even meet the Lieutenant Governor herself. By helping organise the visit.

Throughout the day, while walking the amazing floors of the building, you will be so delighted to visit this beautiful place. It is the people of the Raj Nivas who will fascinate you. This is a magical place, driven by the strength of people. An environment like this instantly felt safe and wasn’t hard to adjust to. Tourists can discover many other things to do in Pondicherry while exploring Pondicherry water sports as well. 

Hotels Near Raj Niwas Pondicherry

There are various hotels available wherein you can stay and enjoy your journey. List of some of those are:

• Hotel Villa Des Gouverneurs

Location- No.05, Jawaharlal Nehru St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001

Rating- 4.3

• Sapphire Inn

Location- 4, Needarajapaiyer St, behind Aurobindo Ashram Petrol Pump, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001

Rating- 4.2

• French Rivera (White Town)

Location- 50 Rue, Manakula Vinayagar Koil St, near Sri Aurobindo Ashram, White Town, Puducherry, 605001

Rating- 4.6

• Hotel Sarvamangalam Inn

Location- Kamban Kalai Arangam, No.128, Kandappa Mudaliar St, near MG Road Area, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001

Rating- 3.9

• Treebo Trend Hotel Grace Inn

Location- 106-80, H.M.Kassim Salai, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001

Rating- 4.2

Restaurants Near Raj Niwas Pondicherry

There are some amazing restaurants near Raj Niwas which offers the mouth watering and finger licking food, some of them are:

• Crepe In Touch

The place offers delicious French crepes. It also has a designated play area full of toys, games and books for the little ones.

Location– 29 Needarajapayer Street, Between MG Road and Mission Street, Puducherry, India, 605001

• Chez Francis

It is a charming restaurant that will take you back in time. Their menu is an interesting fusion of French and South Indian food.

             Location-17 Romain Rolland Street, Puducherry, India, 605001

• Theevu Plage

It is one of the best places to go if you are a seafood lover. The place is set in a beautiful setting with colourful beach decor and seating

Location– Serenity Beach Sea View, Kottukuppam, Puducherry, India, 605101.

Conclusion

So! Are you excited to visit Raj Niwas?

Yes, obviously we understand that after reading all this you all are excited to visit this beautiful palace and want to explore this more from your eyes. So, don’t waste your time anymore and pack your bags today to uncover this amazing place and let history drive in you.  

There are several factors while visiting any historical site, one is to let yourself delve into the amazing facts of the place to know more about it. Another is just follow the path as it is meant to be.