Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary – Biodiversity Haven Near Mashobra

Nestled just 4 kilometers away from Mashobra in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, the Reserve Forest Sanctuary stands as a sanctuary of unparalleled natural beauty, teeming with a diverse array of flora and fauna. This sanctuary, ensconced by the majestic presence of oak, cedar, and pine plantations, holds the distinction of being one of Asia’s largest watersheds, adjoined by the meandering Indus River.

Encompassing an expansive landscape, the Reserve Forest Sanctuary boasts a treasure trove of biodiversity. Its lush canopy shelters an extensive variety of flora, including pine, oak, cedar, rhododendron, maple, horse chestnut, along with a profusion of shrubs, grasses, and vibrant wildflowers. This rich vegetation provides a haven for a multitude of wildlife species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados.

Wildlife enthusiasts embarking on a journey through this sanctuary may encounter an assortment of creatures, including the elusive barking deer known as kakkar, jackals, the majestic Himalayan eagle, and occasionally, the enigmatic presence of leopards. Moreover, the skies above are adorned with the graceful flight of various avian species such as the Himalayan eagle, pheasants, chikor, and partridges, offering a mesmerizing symphony of natural harmony.

Visitors to the Reserve Forest Sanctuary are greeted with an opportunity to delve into the heart of nature’s embrace. It serves as an idyllic escape for those seeking respite from the mundane, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquility and beauty of the natural world. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll amidst the verdant foliage or an adventurous exploration to spot elusive wildlife, the sanctuary promises an experience that resonates with the essence of nature’s magnificence.

A visit to this sanctuary becomes an unforgettable escapade when shared with friends and loved ones. The sheer diversity of flora and fauna, coupled with the thrill of wildlife sightings, ensures a memorable and thrilling experience for all who venture into its enchanting realm.

Shali Tibba – Bhimakali Abode

Shali Temple

In the Shimla district of Himachal PradesH at 2872m the Shali Tibba is a quiet place. The best time is between March and December to visit Shali Tibba. A point of view not to be ignored is Shali Tibbas. This is a heavenly dwelling spot for nature lovers and photographers. The top of Shali has a temple for Bhima Kali, goddess. The temple was built of wood and stone according to the rural architecture of the Himalayas. The closest town to the base camp is Mashobra and the total distance of the trek is 6 km. This autonomous summit offers a wonderful viewpoint for a 360° view of Pradesh Himachal.

A calm and majestic valley of blue pine and cedar forest runs through the path leading to the base camp of the village of Khathnol. Away from Shimla, a stunning, quick and simple journey to Shali Top can be achieved in one day. The hike to Shimla is a perfect weekend.

History and tradition:

The top of Shali consists of a temple that is largely worshipped by the locals and dedicated to Bhima Kali. Devotees regularly flock to the top, in particular during Navratri. The temple was made of timber, stones and rural architectural features of the Himalayas. In 1936, the Raja of Faridkot built a trail to the shrine. Today is the same trail that is well-formed.

From Shali Tibba, take the bus to Mashobra and then walk from Shimla 35 km away. The Himachal Tourism Office on the Mall, Shimla will arrange trekking.

The Retreat Building : Residence of the President of India

The Retreat Building is the official Retreat Residence of the President of India at Chharabra, Shimla, in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located 10 km away from downtown Shimla and is a thousand feet higher than the Shimla Ridge Top, which is part of the Himalayas.

The other presidential homes are Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi and Rashtrapati Nilayam at Secunderabad, Telangana.

The Retreat Building was built in 1850 and it was a part of the Viceroy of India property. Located on the hill top of the Mashobra, the building was taken over during 1895 by the Viceroy.

Mashobra was built by Lord Dalhousie in the 18th century. It is found in the biographies of Lady Mountbatten and Lady Edwinas. Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister, paid a visit to Lord Mountbatten, the Viceroy and then Governor General of India, and his wife Lady Edwina. Before 1948, Mashobra used to house one of the only two Presidential retreats in India. The other Presidential retreat is Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad.

Mashobra is visited by the President of India every year and during that period the main office shifts to the retreat at Chharabra. The building of the Presidential retreat is a completely wooden structure originally constructed in 1850. The Wildflower Hall at Chharabra was the residence to Lord Kitchener as well as Lord Ripon during the British Raj, now a property of Oberoi Hotels. Today Mashobra is a well known tourist’s destination.

The Retreat Building, Mashobra, Shimla
Located on the hill top of the Mashobra, the building was taken over during 1895 by the Viceroy. The President visits The Retreat at least once a year and the core office shifts to that place during stay in The Retreat. Thousand feet higher than the Shimla Ridge Top, The Retreat is located in a picturesque surrounding. The architectural pattern and the natural beauty of the place have made The Retreat a tourist attraction in Shimla.

The redeeming feature of this building is that it is purely a wooden structure with dhajji wall construction. Originally constructed in 1850, this building has a plinth area of 10,628 sq. ft.