Mashobra

Mashobra is a tiny hill station in Himachal Pradesh situated in the district of Shimla. It is an ideal choice for those looking out for a location in the lap of the seclusion Himalayas. Bordered by Indus and Ganges on either sides, it is located at a height of 2500 metres above sea level. A lovely spot for visitors to stay during their visit to Shimla, Mashobra connected to the state capital Shimla through the historic Hindustan-Tibet Road built in 1850 by Lord Dalhousie.

Mashobra is one of the two presidential retreats of India (The other retreat is Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad). The President visits here, only for two weeks in a year during summer and during this time, his core office shifts to the retreat at Chharabra, in the vicinity of Mashobra. Built in the 1840's, it is a 16 room wooden structure surrounded in a 300 acre picturesque surrounding.

The architectural splendour and the natural beauty of the place have made this retreat as a tourist attraction in Mashobra. Apart from President, the retreat used by the Government to house foreign VIPs visiting Shimla.

Mashobra is a part of Shimla Reserve Forest sanctuary and a catchment area. Surrounded by evergreen pine and deodar forests, it's diversity of flora and fauna add extra beauty to Mashobra. Besides, pine and deodar forests, Mashobra forests are rich in oak, cedar, maple and horse Chestnut. The wildlife consists of monkeys, baboons, jackals, barking deer, leopard and bird species such as the Himalayan eagle, pheasants, chikor and partridges. 

Mashobra also has something to offer to the adventurous people like trekking and paragliding. From Mashobra, Paragliders take off to land in the fields of Chahha village at Kasauli. There are numerous trekking trails in Mashobra.

Mashobra has several picnic spots. It boasts one of the main and well stocked markets and the old colonial charm can be apparently felt in its old colonial buildings and numerous old houses, that have been named after the flowers and fruits like Wild-flower Hall, Apple Tree House. Durga temple is the major attraction in Mashobra. From here, a track leads down to a lovely place Sipur, which is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees.

Attractions in and around Mashobra

9 kms from Mashobra at Naldehra is a nice golf course. During the British rule, this course had been used as a camping ground. There is a beautiful temple dedicated to Mahung at Naldehra. In summer colourful fairs are held here.

Kufri
Located at an altitude of 2,510 metres above sea level, Kufri is 16 km from Mashobra. Most of the travelers coming to Shilma love to visit this hill station. Also called the winter sports capital of Himachal Pradesh Kufri is known for the oldest ski slopes in the state. The hillstation offers some beautiful scenes, hilarious climate and also a great option for hiking and skiing. Kufri is one of the most popular destinations for adventure lovers in Himachal Pradesh. During Winter i.e. from November to February, many Ski-lovers and winter sports enthusiasts tour to Kufri. Those who are not a adventurous pursuits, visit Kufri during the months of April to June. Read more...

Fagu
It is 9 km away from Mashobra. Known for its breathtaking Himalayan views Fegu is located high on the slopes of the mighty Himalayan mountain range at an altitude of 2,510 meters above sea-level. A popular trekking spot, it is a good base camp for trekkers and naturalists. A walk in the large Apple Orchards and Potato fields is truly enjoyable. Just above Fagu are the temples of the local god-Banthia Devta. Fagu has a rest house and tourist bungalow overlooking the beautiful Giri valley.

Kalyani Helipad
Situated at a height of 8000 ft, it offers an excellent views of Himalayas, Shimla and the valley below from three sides. Previously it was the site of a two storied residential house called Dukani famous for its picnic grounds and terraced flower garden. The building was used by Himachal Pradesh horticulture department until 1986 when it was razed to make helipad here.