Raj Bhavan (Ooty)

Raj Bhavan of Ooty is the Summer residence of the Governor of Tamil Nadu, It is located in the city of Ooty, Tamil Nadu.HistoryIn 1876, the government decided to purchase Upper Norwood and Lower Norwood, which belonged to the trustees of Lawrence Asylum and started efforts for the establishment of the Government House at Ootacamund. The Duke of Buckingham, who initiated the purchase, took possession of both the Upper and Lower Norwood and the Garden Cottage. But after a single stay, the Governor was convinced that the Upper Norwood was not a fit abiding place for the Governor. Soon after returning to Madras, the Duke proposed the building of a large two storied building which can afford complete accommodation for the family and provide public reception rooms. Between 1878 and 1881, various estimates were prepared and a final estimate for the construction of Government House at a cost of Rs.4,02,914/- was approved. But this estimate did not contain the cost of furnishing the building and hence a further comprehensive estimate was prepared in July 1888 for an amount of Rs.7,79,150/-. Finally, the Government House was constructed at a cost of Rs.7,82,633/-.In 1899, a Ball room with an ante-room was added to the Government House and in 1904 electrical installation for the whole premises was approved and installed. During the period of construction of the Government House, The Duke of Buckingham resided at Upper Norwood and was constantly inspecting the work, altering the plans and making suggestions. Sir Arthur Havelock considerably improved the interior of the original building especially the very fine and handsome Ball room. After Independence, the Government House was renamed as Raj Bhavan.