Indian Institute of Advanced Study

Indian Institute of Advanced Study
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Originally, the IIAS (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) structure was built as a home for Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy of India, between 1884 and 1888. Indian Institute of Advanced Study Shimla has witnessed major historic decisions, including the Shimla Conference (1945) and the Separation of Pakistan and East Pakistan (1947). After independence, the building was renamed ‘Rashtrapati Nivas.’ It was used as a summer retreat by the President of India. Later, it was converted into a research center for Indian culture, religion, humanities, and social and natural sciences.

The star attraction of the institute is the teak-paneled interiors. The entrance portico, grand staircase, reception hall, and fireplace are the other attractions of the institute. The Indian Institute of Advanced Study is a must-visit for photographers and history buffs.

To get more information about this tourist attraction of Shimla, get in touch with us. You can also add this attraction to your Shimla tour. Contact our tour experts to plan your holiday in your style through our customizable tour packages.

Indian Institute of Advanced Study Timings: 9 am to 4:50 pm 

Note: The institute is closed on Mondays / National Holidays

Indian Institute of Advanced Study Entry Fees   

  • Indians

    • Adults: INR 200 per person

    • Children (5 to 12 years): INR 100 per child

    • Senior Citizens: INR 100 per person

  • Foreigners

    • Above 5 years: INR 500 per person

    • Garden Area: INR 50 per person

    • Garden Area (Outside): INR 30 per person

  • Person With Disabilities (PWD): INR 100 per person

  • Special Tours: INR 1000 per person

Architecture of Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla

Henry Irwin designed the Indian Institute of Advanced Study in Shimla, which features Victorian-style architecture. The building is made of grey stones and Burmese teak, giving the building a stunning look.

The institute is a 3-storey building with a huge staircase and a fireplace. In addition, there is a lounge room, a drawing room, and a dining area. The ballroom has been coveted into a massive library containing more than 1.5 lakh books in all languages. Moreover, the library has a 4000+ rare book collection, 105+ subscribed print journals, and 350+ audio/video collections.

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies Shimla Courses

The institute offers various courses in the fields of:

  • Humanities – Study of Religion and Philosophy, Arts and Aesthetics, Comparative Study of Literature

  • Social Sciences – Comparative Study of Political Institutions, Development Studies, Socio-economic and Socio-Cultural Formation in Historical Perspective

  • Natural and Life Sciences – Science, Technology and Development, Methodologies and Techniques, State Policies on Science and Technology

*Check the official website for detailed information.

How to Reach Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla

The institute is located approx. 3.4 km away from Shimla’s city center, so it can be easily reached. Use local transportation like auto-rickshaw or bus to reach the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. You can also book a cab for utmost comfort.

Tips for Visiting the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla Himachal Pradesh

  • Guided tours are available for tourists to understand the building’s historical significance. 

  • In a group, a maximum of 20 people are allowed. 

  • Professional guides conduct the tours in Hindi and English.

  • Do not damage the property on the premises – furniture, photographs, antiques, paintings, etc.

  • Avoid walking on the grass in the lawns at the back of the building. 

  • Photography is not allowed inside the buildings. However, you can take pictures of the outside.

  • Collect souvenirs from the ticket counters to add to your memories. 

  • Any commercial shoots and drones are strictly prohibited. 

  • Smoking is not allowed on the premises. Anyone found guilty may face strict actions and charges.

  • Picnics around the building and eatables inside the building are not allowed.

  • There aren’t any washrooms inside. However, you can find separate washrooms for ladies and gents near the ticket counter.

  • No parking facility is available for tourists inside the main gate of the institute.