Get away from the grind of city life and relax amid the unblemished mountain scenery of Mashobra. Once a favourite retreat among members of the British Raj, today Mashobra is a summer residence of the president of India. Witness the town’s unhurried lifestyle while exploring its quiet streets. Uncover British-influenced architecture, temples and a countryside filled with varied wildlife.
Bazar Road, which cuts through the heart of the town, is the major commercial street. Here you will find casual restaurants, fabric retailers and amenities such as a bank and post office. Go to the northern end of the road to see the British-built Mashobra Church. At the southern end is the Shri Radha Krishna Temple. A short walk uphill from the town centre is the Devta Doom Temple.
Go hiking in the picturesque Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, located 2.9 miles (4.7 kilometres) south. It shelters areas of thick forests, including cedar, horse chestnut, oak and pine, in addition to weeping willows and wildflowers. Spot baboons, bears, Himalayan eagles and jackals. On clear days it is possible to see the Himalayan peaks of Chota Shali, Deo Tibba and Pir Panjal, among others.
Inside the boundaries of the sanctuary is the village of Chharabra, the home of the presidential retreat. Look for the Wildflower Hall, a hotel that was formerly an abode of the military officer Lord Kitchener.
Another interesting place to visit close to Mashobra is Kurfi. Discover family-friendly fun at Himalayan Nature World, Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park and Kufri Fun World. Spend a day at Carignano, an Italian-style villa set at a height of 7,700 feet (2,347 metres). Enjoy scenic picnics and try rappelling and rock climbing.
Mashobra is about a 40-minute drive northeast of Shimla. Get here by catching a bus or taking a taxi and travel on a section of the Hindustan-Tibet Road, a historic trade route established in 1850. Visit between September and June to avoid the monsoon rains.
