Retreat Building

The Retreat Building stands in Mashobra near Shimla. Built in 1850 during British rule, it serves as a summer residence of the President of India and has hosted British aristocrats, Indian royalty and political leaders over the years. The building rests on a solid stone base and is finished with detailed woodwork; its balconies, pillars and fireplaces combine Victorian and Himalayan Indian design.

A hidden tunnel from the British period is part of its story, said to have been made so the Viceroy could leave safely in an emergency. The building is the subject of an ongoing restoration that aims to keep its structure sound and its original features intact.