Rashtrapati Niketan

About
Rashtrapati Niketan is one of the three zones of the Presidential Estate and is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Earlier known as the Presidential Retreat, Rahstrapati Niketan is spread across 21 acres, featuring a wide variety of flora and fauna. For the first time in the history of 186 years, this historic estate is now being opened to the general public from July 1, 2025. Inside its main building, visitors can explore a museum where they can see a variety of art and craft paintings. The aura and beauty of this place can be imagined, as it once served as the private retreat for India's President. By visiting Rashtrapati Niketan, you are getting an opportunity to experience the rich legacy of India's President.
A legacy of India's President
Surrounded by a lush green view, Rashtrapati Niketan is situated on Rajpur Road. The estate houses beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Lily Pond, Rockery Pond, Rose Garden, and pergola. The serenity and tranquillity of this place are immense, where you can soak up some peaceful time amidst city life. It is open for visitors every day except Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. An entry ticket is mandatory for all except government school students and teachers. Rashtrapati Niketan Entry Fee for Indian nationals is Rs 50 and Rs 250/- for foreign nationals.
Along with Rashtrapati Niketan, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Rashtrapati Tapovan on June 20, 2025. Both Rashtrapati Niketan and Rashtrapati Tapovan are part of the Presidential Estate, which spans 170 acres. Like other zones of the estate, Rashtrapati Niketan is a home to a wide variety of biodiversity where one can spot several species of Flora and Fauna.
Attraction
Visitors can access the Rashtrapati Niketan through Gate Number 3. Backpacks and various other items are not allowed inside the Museum. Also, photography is prohibited in the main building. At Rashtrapati Niketan, visitors will be provided: -
- A guided tour of the Heritage building, which features curated art displays.
- A view of the historic stables and the horses of the President's Bodyguard.
- A scenic walk through the beautiful gardens.
History
The history of Rashtrapati Niketan spans around 186 years. Dating back to 1838, Rashtrapati Niketan was established as a summer camp for the horses of the Governor General's Bodyguard. The main bungalow on the premises was built in 1920 for the unit commandant and later converted into a Presidential retreat.
Timing
Before visiting Rashtrapati Niketan in Dehradun, visitors must check its opening and closing times. Rashtrapati Niketan is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, it may remain closed for visitors on Monday and Government Holidays. Visitors can explore the premises during the open hours and must leave by 5 pm.
Gate Opening Time (Gate No. 3- Entry Gate) | 10:00 AM |
Gate Closing Time (Gate No. 2- Exit Gate) | 05:00 PM |
Entry Fee
Rashtrapati Niketan entry fee for Indians is Rs 50, while the fee for foreign citizens is Rs 250/-. However, government school students and teachers are exempt from the fee. The entry fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Gate number 3 is the entry gate of Rashtrapati Niketan, where visitors need to show their identity proof and entry ticket. The entry fee for Rashtrapati Niketan can be paid on-site or online at visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in.
Government School Students and Teachers | Free Entry |
Indian Citizens | Rs 50/- |
Foreign nationals | Rs 250/- |
Facilities
Dehradun Rashtrapati Niketan offers some facilities to its visitors, such as: -
- Free Parking.
- Booking Counter.
- Washrooms.
- Cloak Room.
- Drinking Water.
- Cafeteria.
- Child Care Room.
- Visitors lounge.
- Souvenir Shop.
- Guided Tours.
Parking Fee
Parking at Rashtrapati Niketan is free of charge for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Important Tips for Travellers
- Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main building.
- Entry Tickets can be booked online or on-site.
- Visitors must carry a valid photo identity proof.
- Any type of Eatables, Paan, Gutkha, backpack, and cigarettes are not allowed inside the museum.
- Foreign nationals must carry their passports for verification.
Nearby Attraction
- You can also explore some other notable places nearby Rashtrapati Tapovan, such as: -
Rashtrapati Niketan Online Ticket Booking Process
- Visit visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in.
- Click the Book Now tab..
- Select your preferred date and time.
- Enter the number of visitors.
- Enter the mobile number and verify by submitting the OTP received.
- Fill in the general details and proceed.
- Pay the entry fee to complete the process.
- A ticket will be issued upon successful payment.
How to Reach
By Road : - Rashtrapati Niketan in Dehradun is located at Rajpur Road, which is around 5.4 km away from Clock Tower. It can be accessed easily using public transportation, such as City Buses, Vikram's, Autos, and Tata Magic. Alternatively, visitors can also book an Ola/Uber/Rapido from their respective locations.
By Rail : - Dehradun railway station is the nearest rail head, located around 7 km. From there, visitors can take City buses, Vikrams, and Tata Magic. However, for direct access, you can book an auto, Ola/Uber/Rapido.
By Air : - The closest airport is Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport, around 33 km away. Visitors can book a taxi directly from the airport to reach the site.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit the site is between 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Height from Sea Level
Rashtrapati Niketan is situated at an elevation of 636 meters (2,100 feet) above sea level.