Mashobra, although a picturesque hill station, is a lesser known tourist destination. It is free from the hustle-bustle of Shimla and is a peaceful and beautiful location for those looking for a retreat from their busy lives in the city.
Trekking in the forested hills of the town was a pleasant and rejuvenating experience. We started the trek in late afternoon. A steep path had been cleared through the dense foliage. The weather was cool and sunlight filtered through the gaps between the leaves. The bright red rhododendron flowers could be sighted between the pine and deodar trees and fallen pinecones crunched beneath our feet.
When we had travelled further into the hill, we saw orchards of plum and apple trees. The plum trees had started blooming with pink and white flowers while the apple trees were still only dotted with buds. When these trees would bear fruit, it would be taken to Delhi for the President.
The red tiled roof of the magnificent Presidential Retreat could be spotted at a distance on the hilltop. This is where the President, once a year, shifts his core office to. Its manicured lawns and gardens as well as the unique architecture make it a tourist attraction. Entry, however, is restricted.
Congress general secretary Priyanka Vadra has a beautiful house in the serene settings of Mashobra. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee too had a house here. He used to visit Shimla every year.
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