Top 5 Oldest Boarding Schools In India
These boarding schools provide every student who enters its sacred halls a sense of identity, discipline and belonging through morning prayers to the donning of distinctive uniforms.
Tradition and legacy hold a special place in education, serving as a reminder of the timeless principles and customs that have shaped institutions for generations.
With its rich cultural heritage and long history, India is home to some of the world’s oldest and most esteemed boarding schools. Over the years, these institutions have instilled essential life skills, character traits, and knowledge in countless students. Here are the top five oldest boarding schools in India:
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The Lawrence School, Sanawar, Himachal Pradesh
Founded in 1847, The Lawrence School, Sanawar, is the oldest co-educational boarding school in India. Established by Sir Henry Lawrence to serve the children of British soldiers, it has since evolved into a prestigious institution renowned for its emphasis on academics, sports, and student camaraderie.
The school upholds a legacy of character development, academic excellence, and a strong sense of community. Its cherished traditions have been preserved for over a century, contributing to its unique identity. Notable customs include the solemn morning chapel service, annual Founder’s Day celebrations, the House system that fosters healthy competition, the pride of wearing the school uniform, and the observance of significant milestones through ceremonies and rituals. The school places great emphasis on discipline and character building, ensuring students uphold its distinguished values.
Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Established in 1859 in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Bishop Cotton School is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools. Named after Bishop George Edward Lynch Cotton, its heritage is defined by a strong focus on character development, leadership, and integrity, shaping students into successful individuals.
The school maintains a well-rounded approach to education, incorporating academics, extracurricular activities, and sports. With a rich sporting tradition, it hosts regular inter-house and inter-school competitions in cricket, football, hockey, basketball, tennis, athletics, boxing, swimming, table tennis, rifle shooting, squash, badminton, scuba diving, mountaineering, roller skating, and karate.
Promoting sportsmanship and teamwork, the school provides state-of-the-art facilities to support students in excelling in their chosen sports. Over the years, Bishop Cotton School has produced exceptional athletes who have represented the institution at various levels. Its commitment to sports not only enhances physical fitness but also nurtures essential life skills such as perseverance, discipline, and teamwork.
Mayo College, Ajmer, Rajasthan
Founded in 1875 in Ajmer, Rajasthan, Mayo College is a distinguished all-boys boarding school with a rich heritage. Originally established to educate Indian nobles, the school is renowned for its regal architecture and strong emphasis on Indian traditions.
While preserving its royal legacy, Mayo College has embraced modern educational practices, offering a rigorous academic curriculum, extensive sports facilities, and a disciplined environment. Its commitment to academic excellence, noble traditions, and leadership development continues to define its reputation.
As a prestigious institution with a deep-rooted history, Mayo College has produced an impressive roster of alumni who have excelled in diverse fields. The school’s longstanding traditions provide students with a unique sense of belonging and identity. These include the ceremonial transfer of responsibilities from senior to junior students, the wearing of the school’s signature blazer, annual Founder’s Day celebrations, morning prayers in the school chapel, and the well-structured House system.
Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Established in 1957 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Welham Girls’ School is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious boarding schools for girls. Founded on the principles of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and personal development, the school has nurtured generations of strong, successful women.
The school’s cherished traditions contribute to its unique character. One of its most significant customs is the “Light of Learning" ceremony, where senior students pass symbolic lamps to their juniors, representing the transfer of knowledge and values. Founder’s Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm to honour the vision and efforts of the school’s founders.
Welham Girls’ School fosters a strong sense of community through its House system, encouraging friendly competition and camaraderie. The school also celebrates festivals from various cultures, promoting cross-cultural understanding and inclusivity. These traditions enrich students’ personal and academic growth while strengthening their bonds of sisterhood.
The Doon School, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Founded in 1935 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, The Doon School holds a distinguished place in the history of Indian boarding schools. Modelled after British public schools, it was established to provide Indian boys with a well-rounded education.
Renowned for its academic rigour, leadership training, and extensive extracurricular programmes, The Doon School has consistently upheld its legacy of excellence. It has produced numerous leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers who have made significant contributions to various fields.
The school’s rich traditions have shaped its distinct identity over the decades. These include annual Founder’s Day celebrations, the House system that fosters healthy competition and camaraderie, the esteemed school blazer, morning assemblies where students gather for prayers and affirmations, and mentorship programmes that strengthen relationships between senior and junior students.
The Doon School’s traditions reflect its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and community building, ensuring its students carry forward its legacy of integrity, perseverance, and lifelong learning.
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