The Raj Niwas or the ‘Residing Place of the Royals’ is actually constructed on the foundations of another building, which was previously known as the Hotel de la Compagnie, a French hotel. This hotel is a part of any Pondicherry tour package, and was initially built in the year 1733, and in the year 1748, the hotel was called the Ancien gouvernement. In the year 1753, the name changed to Logement du gouverneur. This place became the residence of all the successors of Dupleix, who stayed in this building till the year 1761.

This building, which is now a major attraction of Pondicherry tourism, was ransacked by the British. In the years of 1766 to 1768, Bourcet reconstructed this edifice, and it was then known as the Hotel du Gouvernement. The building underwent another phase of destruction and reconstruction, and was reconstructed in the year 1820 by Spinasse. The general structure of the building has remained somewhat unaltered after that period.

Raj Nivas Pondicherry Architecture

Raj Niwas or the Government House provides a treat for the mixture of Indian architecture and French architecture. The Hotel de la Compagnie, which was the initial building to be constructed in that area, was ruled by the French from the year 1674. The insides are dazzling, with pieces of French architecture appearing like art pieces. The Indian architecture is also nicely mentioned, with prominent blend of both styles.

There is a very well maintained garden in the centre, and there is a water monument present there. The Raj Niwas is one of the finest places to visit in Pondicherry, with many attractions inside the premises as well. There are also inscriptions present in Tamil and Latin. The look of the place is absolutely adored by the extremely beautiful monolithic pillars.

Other Details

The Raj Niwas is now the residence of the Lieutenant Governor. Special days, such as the 26th January or the Republic Day are celebrated with proper grandeur. The building is however, not open for the general public usually. The audience and outsiders are granted the permission to enter the premises on such special days only.

The old tribunals nearby are where the current Legislative Assembly is hosted.

Raj Niwas Pondicherry Timings

The Raj Niwas can be visited on Wednesdays, and the timings are from 12 to 6:30 PM.