A verandah or veranda is a roofed opened gallery or porch. It is also described as an open pillared gallery, generally roofed, built around a central structure.


According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word verandah originated in India where it is found in several native languages. However, it may have been an adaptation of the Portuguese or older Spanish varanda (baranda in modern Spanish) referring to a railing, balustrade or balcony. Throughout it's history India was invaded by foreign forces, including those of the Muslim, Dutch, Portuguese and English. Each occupying force brought its own traditions which were integrated in the Indian culture. The distinctive style of Indian architecture evolved from a hybrid of east and west. The veranda is one of the many new hybrid architectural elements.