Rashtrapati Ashiyana, a historic 186-year-old estate in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, is set to open its doors to the public starting in April 2025. This decision follows instructions from President Droupadi Murmu, with officials from the President's Secretariat visiting the city to coordinate preparations.
On Saturday, a meeting took place between officials from the President's Secretariat and senior members of the Uttarakhand state government. The purpose was to discuss the necessary arrangements for public access to the complex. This sprawling estate, which covers 21 acres, is currently home to the President's Bodyguard (PBG).
Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary at the President's Secretariat, led the meeting to finalize the plan. It was confirmed that the public would be allowed into the main building of the estate, where they can explore its rich history and heritage. This initiative is part of President Murmu’s vision to open Presidential Estates across India to the public.
Rashtrapati Ashiyana, located on the upscale Rajpur Road, is expected to become a major tourist attraction, featuring historic exhibits about the PBG Regiment's 251-year-old legacy and a 186-year-old equestrian facility. Visitors will also enjoy landscaped gardens, a cafeteria, and upgraded infrastructure, including parking and electricity facilities.
This estate will be the first Presidential property with an active PBG presence to be opened to the public. Previous estates, such as Rashtrapati Nilayam in Hyderabad and Rashtrapati Niwas in Mashobra, do not host the PBG.
Colonel Amit Berwal, Commanding Officer of the PBG, and Swati Shahi, Officer on Special Duty from the President's Secretariat, have been working closely with state officials, including Dehradun District Magistrate Savin Bansal and other senior bureaucrats, to ensure the site is ready for public visits.
Rashtrapati Ashiyana is poised to offer an immersive experience in India’s Presidential and military heritage, attracting visitors from across the country and beyond.
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