You’ve been living in Mauritius for years — or you’re planning your move — and you’ve never visited the State House? You’re not alone. This place is one of the island’s best-kept secrets, yet it’s open to the public, completely free, on certain occasions.
This weekend, I had the chance to be there for the International Day of Monuments and Sites. The gardens, the local craft stalls, the family atmosphere… A place that even long-term expats don’t know about. Here’s everything you need to know.
What exactly is the State House?
Located at Le Réduit, in the hills of Moka, the State House is the official residence of the President of the Republic of Mauritius. This historic estate, surrounded by lush gardens, is normally closed to the general public.
The architecture is majestic, the gardens immaculate, and the atmosphere takes you back to another era — colonial Mauritius, with its grand manor houses and tree-lined avenues. A place that stands in sharp contrast to the beach resort image most people associate with the island.
How to get in for free
The State House opens its doors for certain official events. The two key dates to remember:
- The International Day of Monuments and Sites — celebrated every year on 18 April. This is the event I attended this weekend. The next edition will be on Sunday 18 April 2027. Organised by the National Heritage Fund and the Ministry of Arts and Culture, around twenty heritage sites across Mauritius are accessible for free or at reduced rates.
- Independence Day (12 March) — the State House and other official venues also open their doors for the national celebrations.
Entry is free. Parking is available on site, and a free shuttle service runs between the Réduit bus stop and the château throughout the day.
What to expect during open days
This is far from a simple guided tour. This year’s programme was particularly rich:
- An exhibition of historical artefacts from the State House
- Live painting and calligraphy demonstrations
- Local craft and food stalls
- Children’s activities: face painting, bouncy castle, magic shows, giant games
- The Mauritius Police Orchestra
- Cultural performances
- A blood donation drive
The atmosphere was relaxed, family-friendly, and honestly unexpected for such an official venue. People wandered freely through the gardens, chatted with local artisans, children ran everywhere. This is exactly what I love about Mauritius — moments like these that exist nowhere else.
Why this kind of outing matters when you live in Mauritius
When you first move to Mauritius, you tend to look for good restaurants, nice beaches, and the best addresses. But what you discover over time is that there’s a rich local cultural life — authentic events, places you can visit for free — if you know where to look.
The State House is the perfect example. An exceptional venue, free entry, a unique atmosphere. And yet, most expats have no idea it exists.
That’s why I share this kind of insider tip regularly on this blog and on my social media. Because living in Mauritius isn’t just about beaches and sunsets — it’s also this.
Practical information
- Address: State House, Le Réduit, Moka
- Entry: Free during official events
- Opening hours: Generally 9am to 4pm during open days
- Parking: Available on site
- Shuttle: Free service from the Réduit bus stop
- Next edition: Sunday 18 April 2027 — put it in your calendar!
📌 Tip: follow the official pages of the National Heritage Fund and the Mauritius presidency so you don’t miss the next dates.
Never miss a hidden gem in Mauritius
Whether you’re planning your move to Mauritius or already living there, find all my insider tips, addresses and practical advice on this blog and on my social media.
And if you’re working on your relocation project and would like some guidance, I offer expat coaching sessions to help you see things clearly — paperwork, permits, day-to-day life.
🌴 See you soon for more hidden gems!
