Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study)

Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) in Shimla is one of the grandest colonial buildings in India, built between 1884 and 1888 as the summer residence of the British Viceroy of India. The magnificent Elizabethan-style structure sits on Observatory Hill and commands sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Historic events that shaped India took place within these walls — the Shimla Conference of 1945 between Viceroy Wavell and Indian leaders was held here, as were several other major political deliberations. After independence, the building became the IIAS. Guided tours of the hall, the study, and the grounds are available to visitors.