A residential centre for higher education, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), is located on Observatory hill – one of the seven hills of Shimla. Formed in 1964, this institute was formally inaugurated by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan – the former President of India on 20th October 1965.

The history of this learning centre is more than 100 years old. IIAS was originally built as home for Lord Duffein, who was the Viceroy of India during the years 1884 and 1888.

It was known as the Visceregal Lodge at that time. Many historic decisions, including the Shimla Conference of 1945 and the Separation of Pakistan and East Pakistan in 1947, have been taken in this building.

Post-independence, the edifice was renamed as ‘Rashtrapati Nivas’ and was used by the President of India as a summer retreat. It was later converted into a research centre for Indian culture, religion, humanities and social and natural sciences. The architectural beauty of the building is quaint and captivating.

Henry Irwin, an architect in Public Works Department, designed the building. The use of grey stone and exotic Burmese teak gives this heritage building an exquisite look that mesmerises onlookers at the very first glance. A beautiful garden and well-stocked museum are also located within the campus.