Stand on the neatly trimmed lawns of the Viceregal Lodge and gaze in awe at the stunning architecture of this enormous edifice. Explore the opulent interior and learn about the important talks that took place here leading up to Indian independence. Take a walk up nearby Prospect Hill for some of the best views of the surrounding mountains.
Viceregal Lodge was built between 1886 and 1888 as a summer residence for the Viceroy of India, Lord Dufferin. It was designed in the Jacobethan style by architect Henry Irwin and made from local sandstone. The lodge served as a residence for various viceroys until India gained its independence in 1947. For several years after, it became a summer palace for the Indian elite, but since the 1960s, it has housed the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
Enter the gate and you will be struck by the grand scale of the building. Dozens of high, columned arches fronted by ornate balconies recall the fine architecture of Scottish tradition. It is one of the most impressive colonial buildings anywhere in India.
Take a tour of the interior to appreciate how ornate the building was. See the teak-panelled main hall and its impressive fireplace and explore the guest room, which contains original colonial furniture. The library and conference halls display some of the earliest photos of British colonial powers living in India. You can also see pictures of Gandhi and other Indian leaders taken leading up to the country’s independence in 1947.
Stroll around the manicured lawns and colourful gardens surrounding the building. Take afternoon tea in the adjacent cafeteria and enjoy magnificent views across the mountains. Viceregal Lodge is located on the second-highest peak in the area so it offers one of the best panoramas of the surrounding area.
The lodge is open daily and is a 2.5 kilometre (1.5 mile) walk from Shimla Mall. The entry fee includes your tour.
