Shimla’s Ascent: Unveiling the Journey to Becoming the Summer Capital of British India

In 1857, amidst the massive revolts against the British in North India, including Shimla, Gurkha soldiers stationed in the region revolted. The local Rajas of the Hills played a crucial role in saving the British residents of Shimla. Post-1857, India became a part of the British Empire under the British Crown. Following the revolt, the search for a strategic summer capital led to Shimla's selection. In his letter to Secretary of State of Britain, Lord Lawrence elucidated the reasons why he thought Shimla is the best choice for summer capital. According to him, “Of all the hills stations, Shimla seems to be the best for the supreme government. Here you are with one foot, I may say, in the Punjab and another in the North-West provinces. Here you are among a docile population and yet near enough to influence Oudh.” Due to all these reasons, Shimla finally became the Summer Capital of British Raj in 1864 under John Lawrence. This elevation in status triggered significant changes, with the construction of notable buildings, including the Viceregal Lodge, the residence of the Viceroy of India. A railway track was laid from Kalka to Shimla, which was an engineering Marvel of that time. Shimla saw a complete change of Character. It became ‘British’. Indianness was abhorred and Indians were debarred to enter at designated places, including the iconic Mall Road. The transformation of Shimla into the capital of India brought about drastic changes, turning it into a quintessentially British enclave.