The Istana

The Istana is the official residence and office of the President of Singapore, set in a large garden estate off Orchard Road near Dhoby Ghaut MRT station, in the Newton planning area, and its grounds open to the public only during Istana Open Houses, held up to five times a year. Built as Government House for the British governors, it was designed by the colonial engineer Major John F. A. McNair, built with Indian convict labour and completed in 1869. In 1959 it passed to the Singapore Government and was renamed Istana, Malay for palace. Sri Temasek, also built in 1869 as the Colonial Secretary's house, later became the Prime Minister's official residence.

Dates for each Open House are announced on the Istana website, and the grounds open from 8.30am to 6pm with last entry at 5.30pm. Entry is free for Singapore citizens and permanent residents, while other visitors pay an admission fee, and everyone must show identification at the Main Gate on Orchard Road. Visitors walk the grounds past the Swan Pond, Gun Terrace and Japanese Garden, and can pay separately to see State Gifts in the Istana Villa or join an NParks heritage tour. The Main Building is closed for restoration until further notice. The Changing of Guards Ceremony is usually held at the main entrance on the first Sunday evening of the month. Dhoby Ghaut MRT station is under five minutes' walk from the Main Gate.