Walking on (Setting) Sunshine
As I mentioned in an earlier post, a brisk walk around the sprawling IIAS grounds was the only physical activity I permitted myself during my stay there.
It was not merely another chance to take in the rambling Scottish Baronial edifice and its beautifully landscaped multi-tier terraces. The consequent muscle-ache helped me return firmly to the present after being lost in the 1800s for many an hour.
Soon as the daily throng of visitors left, a spell of calm and quiet would descend on the 
entire estate; a scholar here and a sentinel there, the only break in the stillness.
Other than the sound of my footsteps on gravel paths and stone steps leading, first, to the heritage indoor tennis court (one of three of its kind still surviving in the world, reportedly) located deep to the northwest of the Viceregal Lodge.
Then, retracing to the circular garden to the southwest before circling the front lawn and trudging down towards the All Saints Chapel nestled between the main entrance and Observatory House, my temporary abode.
This delightful little chapel found many a mention in the records and books I thumbed through, but intriguingly remained hidden from view. Till I chanced upon the abandoned structure, fallen into disrepair, as I wandered around the premises waiting for breakfast to be called early one morning. I returned the following day, armed with my camera, to capture its fading glory before departmental apathy took the expected toll.
But the highlight of my daily constitutional would have to be the sky, aglow with the fiery colours that the setting sun leaves in its wake.
Missing (yet again) my camera the first time round, I took a shot or two with my phone 
promising to come back another day.Except that day was overcast with fat angry clouds determined to thwart my plans; I clicked away anyhow.I finally experienced the perfect sunset the evening before I checked out. Evidently, it was well worth the proverbial wait.
Second Attempt: Plans clouded over!
Third Attempt: Success!
very nice and informative this one:)
Thank you.
Dear Madam,
I always make it a point to read your blogs as they echo my hibernated desire to wander worrylessly like it were be my full time job….!!!
Any way … the photographs were very nice ( though a few in numbers ) . perhaps you are forgotten to mention the name of the place precisely. . but that hardly matters….!!
Regards, happy traveling & keep writing…! many-2 kudos from me.
Sharma U
Shillong
Thank you for following my blog, and appreciate your feedback.
Informatively, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study is housed in the former Viceregal Lodge in Shimla. The pictures are of the grounds and properties (named in the article) on the estate.
you are a gifted photographer and writer, keep it up!
Thanks a lot. Appreciate that feedback.
Lovely headline and lovelier pictures, especially those of the clouded sunset. 🙂
Thanks 🙂
Beautiful pics,must have been a fabulous trip.
Thanks. It certainly was that…and more.