Viceregal Lodgeshimla
A Colonial Pride
Overview
Once the residence of British Viceroy of India, this place takes one back in time to the era of British Raj, displaying ancient articles, photographs and artefacts.
What To Expect?
A grand structure in Scottish Baronial style featuring grey stone architecture and intricate teak woodwork. You can take a guided tour to see the historic conference room where the Simla Conference was held, explore the beautiful botanical gardens, and view a collection of rare photographs and artifacts from the colonial era. It now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS).
Tips
- Photography is prohibited inside the building; however, you can take as many pictures as you want in the sprawling gardens.
- Join the official guided tour to understand the deep historical context of the various rooms and the artifacts on display.
- Visit in the morning to enjoy a peaceful walk in the botanical gardens before the afternoon crowd arrives.
- Tickets for the interior tour are limited per day; try to buy yours as soon as you reach the entrance.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the estate covers a large area of hilly terrain.
Exploring Viceregal Lodge
More About Viceregal Lodge
Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, the Viceregal Lodge was built in 1888 on Observatory Hill as the summer residence of the Viceroy of India. Designed by architect Henry Irwin, the building is a masterpiece of colonial engineering, having its own fire extinguishing system and early electrical wiring.
Once the residence of British Viceroy of India, this place takes one back in time to the era of British Raj, displaying ancient articles, photographs and artefacts. The site has witnessed some of the most critical decisions leading up to India's independence, including the discussions surrounding the Partition of India.
Today, it serves as the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. Visitors can admire the vast rose gardens and carefully maintained lawns that offer panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too.
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise. Whilst using public transportation, just ensure that you are following the local norms and do remember to watch the locals!
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally.
How to reach Viceregal Lodge
Located on Observatory Hill, about 3 km from Mall Road. You can reach the lodge by hiring a local taxi from the main town or enjoy a pleasant uphill walk through the quiet residential areas of Shimla.
Tips for Visiting Viceregal Lodge, shimla
- Photography is prohibited inside the building; however, you can take as many pictures as you want in the sprawling gardens.
- Join the official guided tour to understand the deep historical context of the various rooms and the artifacts on display.
- Visit in the morning to enjoy a peaceful walk in the botanical gardens before the afternoon crowd arrives.
- Tickets for the interior tour are limited per day; try to buy yours as soon as you reach the entrance.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the estate covers a large area of hilly terrain.
