Oakover was one of the earliest houses built in Shimla, a hill station that served as the summer capital of British India.

To avenge this insult, the Maharaja founded Chail, a rival town to Shimla, at a higher elevation.

After India’s independence in 1947, Oakover was transferred to the state government of Himachal Pradesh and became the official residence of the Chief Minister in 1971.

The bungalows are also built in the colonial style, with wooden floors and ceilings, and have modern amenities.

The building has a separate office wing, where the Chief Minister conducts his official meetings and affairs.

The office wing is staffed by the Chief Minister’s personal assistants, secretaries, and advisors.