An eerie silence rests around Jakhoo hills in Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of India. On it lies a once magnificent mansion—its rusty, locked gate hanging from its hinges.
Once the abode of a British officer of A.O. Hume, the founder of the Indian National Congress, Sheeshe Wali Kothi or The Rothney Castle has a big historic significance in Indian History.
Rothney castel was built on the Jakhoo slopes by Colonel Rothney in 1838 and was purchased by Dr Carte in 1843, who started Shimla Bank Corporation in the place. The next owner was Arnold Mathews, who purchased it in 1854, and sold it to Mitchell in 1867, who named it Rothney Castle. But Hume gave it the form one still glimpses today, spending a lot of money and made it the most magnificent building in Shimla.
The sun lighting along the long glass windows, doors and the sliding pyramid-shaped roof and the glass ceiling with the tall, whispering deodars keeping a watch over it. Although in ruins at present, this property appears like a beautiful garden with many blooming flowers and birds.
The architecture of the place is one of the finest which the intricate glass and wooden work. Yet most parts of the buildings are crumbling due to neglect. The wooden panels are rotting away due to continuous seepage of rainwater and melting of snow.
The site is a treat to the explorer due to its historical significance and the natural beauty of the location. As one climbs up the steep slopes of the Jakhoo Hill, they are bound to be greeted by the enchanting chirping sounds of the birds. The beauty of the ruins increases ten folds by the colorful wildflowers and wild berries growing around. No one knows much about the fascinating heritage property dying a slow death.
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