Viceregal Lodge
Viceregal Lodge
From 1823 onwards, the Governors-General and later Viceroys of India faced constant challenges in finding suitable residences during their summer stays in Shimla, moving from one inadequate place to another.
It was Lord Lytton (1876-80) who finally selected Observatory Hill as the site for constructing the building that would become the ultimate Viceregal residence in town.
The location is particularly unique as the waters from one side of the hill flow towards the Bay of Bengal, while the wash from the other side heads towards the Arabian Sea. The initial designs for the new Viceregal residence were created by Captain H. H. Cole of the Royal Engineers and were presented to Lord Lytton at the Simla Fine Arts Exhibition of 1878. However, it was Lord Dufferin (1884-88) who took a personal interest in the project, convincing the Secretary of State for India, Lord Randolph Churchill, to approve the project, which ultimately cost thirty-eight lakh rupees.
The Public Works Department sprang into action, and construction began in 1886. The building that emerged from this effort became a symbol of British imperial power and remains an iconic part of Shimla’s history. Today, visitors can take time for yoga and meditation while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the restaurant, rooms, or even their personal gardens, offering a tranquil escape for the mind, body, and soul.
distance FROM Shimla Havens resort: 3.1 KM
Things To Do
Couple Photoshoot
Treetop Adventure
Shimla Street Food
Paragliding
Heritage Walk
Nature Camping
Other Attractions
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