Viceregal Lodge a heritage Structure Reminiscing the Glorious Old Colonial Days

Situated beautifully on the picturesque observatoryhill of Shimla, the Viceregal Lodge also known by the name “Rashtrapati Niwas” is the heritage building of the town.

Designed in Scottish flavor, it is one the greatest contribution of Henry Irvine and even after centuries, this spectacular structure offers the flavor of colonial days and a unique experience to cherish forever.

 

Viceregal Lodge construction started way back in the year 1880 and it took nearly 8 years to complete this marvelous structure which carries the essence of the historical beauty even today, after centuries old.  

The Viceregal lodge was a little use for the President of India as it was for a few day uses when he used to visit this summer capital. Later on Professor Radha Krishnan thought of using this structure for the education purpose and he used it for academic use and it was transferred to the Education of Ministry which was again handed over to the Indian Institute of Advance Studies. 

The structure is beautifully encircled with towering pine trees and manicured gardens from all sides. Today it serves as a centre for advance studies (IIAS) as scholars from around the world gather here for debate and discussions. 

Well in order to make it a perfect academic centre, the building was renovated and some of its interiors and rooms were modified accordingly for academic purpose. 

Special Features

The Viceregal Lodge now most popularly known as Indian Institute of Advance Studies is approximately half and hour walk from the Mall Road of Shimla. The entry ticket is Rs. 30 and with that they give a guided tour of the lodge and provide valuable information about its history, architecture and importance. The guide tour provides you not just the valuable info about how this architectural wonder came up, but also provides the historical essence of how it was before Independence. 

From here one can enjoy the spell binding view of the nature, breathtaking Himalayas and feel the beauty of the lovely ambiance which revives the soul, mind and body. Visit here and enjoy a lovely time with your friends and dear ones and take home memorable memories to relish in forever. 

Academics

IIAS currently focus on Humanities, Social Sciences and Natural and Life Sciences. Under these three main categories, there are various other sub categories which come under the academic structure of the Institute. From across the world, the best and refined minds come here for advance studies and now it has become one of the premier institutes in India for advance studies.

Well, if you are in Shimla for a tour, it is suggested to pay visit to this famous heritage structure, which carries immense importance not from the architectural point of view or historical point of view but from Shimla tourism point of view.