Shimla GPO

Located on the Mall in Shimla, Shimla GPO was established in 1883 on the site of a residence known as “Conny Lodge.” It is one of the oldest post office buildings in the country. During the British Raj, when Shimla served as the summer capital of India, the GPO assumed great importance for its crucial role in the receipt and despatch of official government correspondence, popularly referred to as “Walayati Dak.”

The building is primarily a timbered structure with a tin roof and rises to three storeys. A distinctive architectural feature is the presence of six large hollow pillars made of stone and brick that traverse the full height of the structure. Until 1920, firewood was used during winter months to keep the building warm, enabling postal staff to carry out their duties efficiently. The structure is widely regarded as an excellent example of English hill architecture.

On 21 September 1972, a fire on the first floor destroyed much of the old records housed in the building. It was subsequently renovated, and its centenary was celebrated on 31 July 1983. In 1992, Shimla GPO was declared one of the Heritage Post Office buildings in the country.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

As a precursor to INDIPEX-2011 – World Philatelic Exhibition, India Post proudly issued a commemorative postage stamp on this iconic heritage building, celebrating its architectural charm and historic legacy.