Free bus tour of President’s Residence in Shimla
Visitors in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, can now enjoy a free tour of the President’s Residence via HRTC buses. The 15-kilometer journey from Shimla to Chharabra is completely free, offering tourists and locals a complimentary tour of the President’s Residence.
The President’s Residence in Shimla is now offering free tours through Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses. This initiative celebrates President Droupadi Murmu’s completion of two years in office on July 25. To mark the occasion, the President’s Residence in Chharabra, Himachal Pradesh, is extending this special service to the public. Tourists and locals interested in visiting the President’s Residence can take advantage of this free bus service.
The HRTC bus service operates from the parking area near the lift in Shimla to Chharabra. Travel on this bus is entirely free. Those interested in visiting the President’s Residence can benefit from this service. Currently, the free bus service is available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The President’s Residence in Shimla was opened to the public in April 2023.
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its historical buildings. Each structure built during the British era tells a unique story. In 1850, the King of Koti constructed a building that is now known as the President’s Residence. Initially, the building had only one floor. In 1860, MC Commissioner Lord William leased the building from the King of Koti, paying a substantial sum of Rs. 2,825. In 1890, the building was expanded to two floors.
This historic building spans 10,628 square feet. Before independence, the Viceroy resided here and would visit on weekends from the Viceroy Lodge on Observatory Hill. The Viceroy Lodge, now known as the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, was completed in 1888.
