Raj Bhavan, Official residence in Chennai, India

Raj Bhavan is the official residence of the Governor and spreads across about 156 acres within a forest reserve area in Chennai. The complex features European architectural design in its main halls and is surrounded by trees and open grounds.

The residence was originally built in the 1640s and moved multiple times before arriving at its current location in 1820. These relocations reflect how the region's administrative center shifted over centuries.

The Tamil name is Aalunar Maaligai, "Governor's Mansion"; in December 2025 the central government renamed all Raj Bhavans as Lok Bhavan, so the Chennai residence is now officially Lok Bhavan. The campus holds the Bharathiar Mandapam hall and suites for the president, vice president and prime minister, where state functions are held.

Access is restricted as it functions as a high-level government facility with strict security protocols. Visitors need to arrange official permission well ahead of any visit and should not expect open public access.

The grounds contain a herd of blackbuck antelopes introduced in 1924 that roam freely across the forested areas. These animals are a surprising feature within an urban administrative facility and remain a notable part of the landscape.