Read More on Viceregal Lodge
History
The Viceregal Lodge has a history dating back more than 200 years. Notably, the monument served as the viceroy's palace under British control. Its majesty and magnificence are regarded as among the greatest in Indian history. The monument was mostly constructed in the year 1888. The construction, on the other hand, began in 1880 and took eight years to complete. On the 23rd of July in the year 1888, Lord Dufferin, the viceroy during the British administration in India, took up residence in the palace.
Only a few of India's historical leaders have ties to the palace, with S. Radhakrishnan being one of the most important. In today's world, the palace is owned by India's Ministry of Education, which uses it as a home for the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. Though the majority of the monument is utilized for educational purposes, the government of Himachal Pradesh uses certain of its regions for administrative purposes. Due to its long usage by many elements of the state, the palace's splendor has remained preserved over time.
Architecture
The monument was predominantly constructed in the Jacobethan style of architecture. The Jacobethan style is most similar to the British constructor style which was most prominent in England during the 1800s. This particular architectural style is equally relevant to the Gothic approach. Mr. Henry Irvine was the architect who designed this beautiful edifice. The monument's entry gate is located on the southern end, and it leads straight to the palace's large reception hall. Within the hall is a wonderful fireplace. Overall, the landmark is a gigantic six-storey building built entirely of bricks and stones.
Activities
- There are quite several activities and to do’s for the tourists of Viceregal Lodge, Shimla to partake and indulge themselves in such as embarking on the historic and heritage culture of the Lodge that is an architectural masterpiece as well as a legacy to India.
- Indulging in the botanical gardens may be very captivating for the tourists within the compound of the Lodge.
- There are other various activities that visitors can engage themselves in, around the vicinity of Shimla such as golfing, skiing, ice skating, sightseeing, fishing, Jakhoo ropeway, visiting the Manorville Mansion where Mahatma Gandhi had resided for a brief period as well as visiting the army heritage museum to name a few of the many activities to do for visitors.
Tips for visiting
- Don't forget to put on some comfy athletic sneakers since there would be quite a lot of walking around to be done.
- Wear sunglasses, and sunscreen lotion with you at all times due to the heat.
- Remember to take photos of the Shimla hills and mountains from the towers as this tends to usually be missed by tourists.
- While touring Viceregal Lodge's botanical garden, have a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy along with the beautiful climate.
Best time to visit
An architectural and historical masterpiece such as the Viceregal Lodge, Shimla is best visited during all the months of the year barring July and August. the reason is that there is usually a larger amount of crowds during these two months causing longer wait lines and rush. On a daily timescale, the best time to visit the lodge would be around morning hours from 10:30 AM onwards.
Nearby Atractions
- Shimla State Museum
- Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
- Indian Institute of Advanced Study
- Summer Hill
- Bhimakali Temple
- Christ Church
- Chadwick Falls
Nearby market/ shopping places
Shimla is known for its shopping, there are many shopping centers and locations in Shimla. Although some of the most popular ones which are a must-visit for Viceregal Lodge tourists is the Mall road in Shimla. Shimla's retail and commercial core are located here. Small souvenirs and trinkets, as well as Shimla's famed handicrafts and other antiquities, may be found here.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Aarika Homestay
- Snow Valley Resorts
- Shimla Havens Resort
- Snow Valley Resort
- Hotel CK International
- Hotel Blossom
- The Zion
Interesting Facts About Viceregal Lodge
- The Viceregal Lodge was brimming with Victorian-era technology, some of which were firsts on the Indian subcontinent.
- The Lodge contains an indoor tennis court, and it is located on Observatory Hill, Shimla's second-highest point.
- The second President of India gave this mansion over to the Ministry of Education and Mahatma Gandhi had visited the Viceregal Lodge four times.
- This beautiful edifice is an example of the Jacobethan style of architecture which is similar to the gothic style of architecture.