Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun is an autonomous institution of Department of Science & Technology (DST), GoI, which came into being in 1968. It has been pursuing basic researches to unravel the orogeny of majestic Himalaya and provide improved understanding on seismogenesis, geodynamic processes, climate-tectonic interactions, evolution and extinction of life, ore formation, glaciology, river system, natural hazards (landslides, floods, and earthquakes), anthropogenic impact etc. towards the well-being of population and safe-guarding the properties and structures in the Himalaya and adjoining areas.
Initially named as the Institute of Himalayan Geology, it was renamed as the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in memory of its founder, the late Prof. D. N. Wadia (F.R.S. and National Professor), in appreciation to his contributions to the geology of the Himalayas. During the last quarter century the Institute has grown into a centre of excellence in Himalayan Geology and is recognised as a National Laboratory of international repute with well equipped laboratories and other infrastructural facilities for undertaking advanced level of research in the country.

About WIHG
Established in 1968
Founding Director Prof. D. N. Wadia (F.R.S. and National Professor)
Current Director Dr. Kalachand Sain
Location Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
Research Type Geology
Website Visit Official Website

Research Divisions

  1. Petrology and Chemistry

  2. Geophysics

  3. Biostratigraphy

  4. Sedimentology & Quaternary Geology

  5. Geomorphology, Environmental and Engineering Geology

  6. Glaciology and Hydrogeology

  7. Structure and Tectonics

S. P. Nautiyal Museum

The Institute has organised a small museum which is very popular with the visitors and especially the school children. The museum offers a glimpse of the mighty Himalaya; its origin, evolution in time and space, natural resources, life in the geological past, earthquakes and environmental aspects. Basic objective in organising the museum is to educate students and general public as well as to highlight the Institute activities. Museum, the educative wing of the Institute had a large number of student visitors from different universities, local schools and general public and as usual remained the main centre of attraction for the national and international visitors. Students in large groups from different schools, universities, colleges and from other institutions visited the Museum and guided tours were provided to them. A relief model of the Himalaya and paintings depicting the impact of human activities on the environment displayed in the Museum remained a point of attraction for the visitors. Also, over the years visitors from USA, Austria, U.K, Ukraine, Thailand, Australia, England, Japan, Nepal, France, Russia, Moscow, Israel and Canada visited the Museum.