Starting April 23, tourists and history buffs visiting Shimla will have the opportunity to explore the Rashtrapati Niwas, also known as ‘The Retreat’. This 173-year-old building has been the official summer retreat of the President of India and is considered one of Shimla’s most well-preserved heritage structures. Earlier known as the Presidential Retreat, this wooden building with ‘dhajji walls’ spans over 10,628 sq feet and was constructed in 1850.
Located in Mashobra, 13 km from Shimla, The Retreat building has a rich history of hosting almost all of India’s Presidents during the summer months. While staying here, the Presidents have often thrown ‘At Home’ where prominent citizens of the state capital are invited for high tea. Unfortunately, the building remains off-limits to locals and tourists. Now, visitors will experience the majesty of this British-era building.
President Droupadi Murmu’s recent decision to promote the learning and understanding of cultural heritage has led to this latest development. A meeting at Rashtrapati Niwas communicated the decision of the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, to open her summer residence to the public. Dr Rakesh Gupta, Additional Secretary to the President, who chaired the meeting, said that the President will officially open the historic estate to the general public on April 23 during her visit to Shimla.
This is in the spirit of Rashtrapati Nilayam (Niwas), Hyderabad, and the President’s House, New Delhi, which have already opened to the general public and are receiving a huge influx of visitors. These two sites are excellent examples of how places of significance can be opened up to the public and enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Visitors can tour the historic Retreat in Shimla for a small fee of Rs 50 for Indian nationals and Rs 250 for foreign nationals, except for government holidays, Mondays, and during the President’s stay. As a special gesture, government school children can enter for free until June 30.
The Retreat is set to become a top tourist destination in the city. As the official residence of the Indian President, it is a place of immense historical significance. The key attractions for tourists include the main building, which gives visitors a glimpse into the life of India’s President.
Inside, tourists can explore the official dining halls, exquisite art pieces, and carefully preserved artefacts that are part of the Presidential history. Additionally, the expansive and meticulously curated lawns, featuring tulips and other beautiful flowers, will be a major draw for tourists. Nature trails and orchards will also be open for tourists.
Interested persons can also book their visit online from April 15, 2023, through the official website of the Rashtrapati Bhavan at https://visit.rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in.
The Rashtrapati Niwas is taking steps to ensure the comfort and safety of tourists visiting the site. To this end, a cloakroom, wheelchair access, cafe, souvenir store, restrooms, water dispensers, and first-aid setup will be provided for visitors. Additionally, guided tours with scholar guides will be available to help tourists learn more about the history of the building.
