Lansdowne Hill Station is a beautiful and breathtaking place located in Pauri Garhwal of Uttarakhand state. This hill station is situated at an altitude of about 1780 meters (5840 feet) above sea level. The place of Lansdowne is famous for its peace and natural beauty.
All travelers, hello or hello! I’m the adventurer behind Travel Piq, a traveler and storyteller living in the vibrant land of India. In this blog, we will introduce you to various aspects of your trip to Lansdowne Hill Station, so that your trip can become even more memorable. Come, learn more about this precious gem and enjoy its natural and historical attractions.
Overview of Lansdowne
Lansdowne was established during the British era in 1887, which was built as a British Army cantonment. This hill station is the headquarters of the Garhwal Rifle Regiment of the Indian Army.
This Lansdowne Hill Station is a beautiful town situated amidst lush green forests and cool breeze, away from the crowd. Every traveler comes here to see happiness, peace and beauty of nature, this place provides a different experience to the tourists. Lansdowne was named after the Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne.
Story Behind the name (Lansdowne)
The reason behind the name Lansdowne is that this hill station was named after the then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne in 1887. Earlier it was known as “Kali Danda”, meaning “Black Mountain”. The purpose behind renaming it after Lord Lansdowne was to establish a recruitment and training center for the British Army in the region.
Section 1: Getting There
How to reach Lansdowne
By Road
Delhi to Lansdowne
• By Route: Delhi to Lansdowne via Meerut, Bijnor, Kotdwar.
• Cover Distance: Approximately 250 kilometers.
• Timing: Approximately 6-7 hours.
• Transport Options: You can travel by your own car or by Uttarakhand Transport buses. Taxi services are also available.
Kotdwar to Lansdowne
Route: Kotdwar to Lansdowne via Dugadda, Jaiharikhal.
• Distance: Approximately 40 kilometers.
• Time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours.
By Railway
Nearest railway station
• Kotdwar Railway Station: This is the nearest railway station to Lansdowne, located at a distance of about 40 kilometers.
Main trains
• Regular trains are available to Kotdwar from Delhi, Haridwar and Dehradun.
• Major trains: Jan Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express and Garhwal Express.
Kotdwar to Lansdowne
• Lansdowne can be reached by taxi or bus from Kotdwar Railway Station.
By Airways
Nearest Airport
• Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun: This is the nearest airport to Lansdowne, located at a distance of approximately 152 kilometers.
Travel beyond the airport
• From Jolly Grant Airport one can reach Kotdwar and then Lansdowne by taxi or cab.
• Regular buses and taxi services are available from Dehradun, Haridwar to Kotdwar.
Personal experience of reaching Lansdowne
By Road
Haridwar to Lansdowne
Transportation Options
Road: Haridwar to Lansdowne via Kotdwar.
Span: Approximately 109 kilometers.
Time Taken: Approximately 3-4 hours.
I covered this journey with both my car and bike. The journey is very pleasant and full of nature, a winding hilly road.
Tips: If you have driven on mountains, then drive with caution.
These tips are for those who are coming for the first time, please drive on your side in the mountains and do not try to overtake on the turns.
Lansdowne’s journey,
More beautiful than the destination,
It is a journey to change perspective.
लैंसडाउन का सफर ,
मंज़िल से भी कहीं ज़्यादा ख़ूबसूरत,
दृष्टिकोण बदलने का सफर है।
Map of Lansdowne
Section 2: Accommodation
Luxury accommodation
- Blue Pine Resort
- Rio Resorts
Mid-range accommodation
- Lens Castle
- Fairydale Resort
Budget Friendly accommodation
- Garavalli Inn
Unique Accommodation Options
- Kumaon Homestay
- Himalayan Abode
Retreat option
- Forest Mist Retreat
- The Oaks Retreat
Best time to book
Season and off-season
Off-season
Lansdowne sees more tourists in summer (April to June) and winter (October to January). It may be beneficial to book in advance during these months.
Monsoon (July to September) has fewer tourists, so you can get good discounts.
Unique local experience
- Local Food: One gets a chance to taste the local Garhwali cuisine at the homestay.
- Culture: Staying in a homestay allows you to be a part of the local festivals and traditions.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Many resorts and homestays organize guided trekking and nature walks.
Tips: Hotel prices and their services keep changing with time, check online before booking.
Section 3: Natural Beauty
Tip-in-Top
Tip-N-Top is one of the most famous places in Lansdowne, which offers views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountain peaks. This place is at an altitude of 1700 meters (5577 feet) above sea level. The highest point of Lansdowne Hill Station is also here.
Best time to visit
- Summer (April to June): During this period the Lansdowne weather is pleasant and the view of the Himalayas is clear.
- Winter season (October to January): It is cold at this time, but one gets to see the amazing view of snowy mountains.
Tips: Be prepared to not be able to see the views of the Himalayan Mountains in fog
Bhulla Tal
This lake was built by the soldiers of Garhwal Rifle in the memory of their soldiers. Bhulla Tal is artificial lake in which boating is done and white swans swimming make the beauty of this lake more attractive. This place is known for its peaceful environment and beauty.
Activities at Bhulla Tal:
- Boating: Foot-powered boating can be enjoyed in Bhulla Tal. It is a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages.
- Picnic: There are beautiful gardens and seating areas on the banks of the lake, which are ideal for picnics.
- Bird Watching: A variety of birds can be seen here, making it a good place for bird watchers.
Section 4: Historical Sites
War Memorial
The War Memorial of Lansdowne was constructed in 1923 to honor the valor and sacrifice of the brave soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles. This monument is a symbol of the bravery and patriotism of the soldiers.
It is a beautiful and grand monument which is a symbol of liveliness and peace. Here an exhibition of various war achievements and history of Garhwal Rifles is kept, which is worth seeing.
St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church was established in 1896 during the British period. The church now serves as a tourist information center and museum. Where under information you will get information related to Lansdowne which will give you an opportunity to know about this place. An example of the design and artwork of this church will be seen.
Section 5: Cultural and local food
Local Festivals
The Garhwal Festival in Lansdowne is a major cultural event that showcases local art, music, and dance.
- Time of event: This festival is usually organized in the month of April or May.
- Main attractions: Local handicrafts, traditional Garhwali dance, concerts, and local cuisine stalls.
Cuisine
Kafuli
It is a nutritious and delicious dish made from green leafy vegetables.
- Key Ingredients: Spinach, fenugreek, rice flour, and spices.
- How to serve: With hot rice or Roti.
Phanu
This is a traditional lentil based dish from the Garhwal region.
- Main ingredients: Bhatt Dal (black lentils), spices, and ghee.
- How to serve: With rice.
Chainsoo
This is a typical Garhwali Dal made from Bhatt Dal.
- Main ingredients: Bhatt Dal, spices, and ghee.
- How to serve: With hot rice.
Potato Gutkas
It is a popular snack made from fried spicy potatoes.
- Main ingredients: Potatoes, spices, and coriander.
- How served: With tea or on its own.
Section 6: Tips for Travelers
Best Time to Visit
Summer (April to June)
- Weather: In summer the temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C.
- Key Attractions: The weather is pleasant and comfortable in summer, which is a good season for tourism and activities.
Monsoon (July to September)
- Weather: Heavy rainfall occurs in monsoon. Due to which the roads are wet and full of fog. Please drive your vehicle carefully.
- Key Attractions: The natural beauty and lush green forests can be enjoyed at this time, but caution should be taken during the trip due to rain.
Winter season (October to January)
- Weather: In winter the temperature goes up to 15°C or even below.
- Main Attractions: In winter, there is a chance to see snowfall here, which further enhances the beauty of Lansdowne.
Section 7: Packing Essentials
- In summer: light cotton clothing, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Tips: If you are a hill station, it can be hot during the day and cold in the morning and night, so please keep a warm outfit even in summer.
- In winter: warm clothes, jacket, mufflers, gloves, and woolen hat.
Tips: If you are a hill station then there are cold winds during the day, please do not be careless.
- In monsoon: raincoat, umbrella, and waterproof shoes.
Other Requirements
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to do trekking.
- Medicines: Medicines for common ailments and any special medicine if required.
- Toiletries: Personal items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and sanitizer.
- Electronics: Mobile phones, chargers, power banks, and cameras.
Section 8: More info about place
Respect for culture
- At religious places: Wear appropriate clothes and maintain peace while visiting temples and religious places.
- To the locals: Be polite and respectful to the locals.
Photography
- Take permission: Be sure to take permission from local people before taking photographs.
Environmental considerations
- Cleanliness: Do not litter in public places and use dustbins.
- Conservation of Nature: Conserve nature and do not harm flora and fauna during trekking and other outdoor activities.
Section 9: Safety Tips
Health & Safety
- Medical Kit: Always carry a first aid kit.
- Climate: Be aware of the weather and dress accordingly.
Caution while traveling
- Road Trip: Be careful while driving on hilly roads and control your speed.
- Trekking: Take the help of a guide while trekking and always walk in a group.
Important documents
- Identity Card: Carry copies of your identity cards.
- Emergency Contacts: Carry local contact numbers and contact numbers of your loved ones in case of emergency.
Tips: The entire area of Lansdowne comes under Army Garhwal Rifle, security is complete. But it is your duty to pay attention to your documentation and the suggestions given above.
Section 10: Personal Stories and Reflections
Memorable Moments
Tip-in-Top Adventure: This was the first place from where I saw the Himalayas or mountains in snow. It was like a dream for me at that time, therefore Tip-in-Top has become a very special memory for me.
Boating Experience in Bhulla Tal: The lakes of Bhulla Tal are very calm. Therefore, when I went boating there, the sound of the boat moving could be clearly heard over the water. Swans looked beautiful swimming here and there.
Lessons Learned
- Respect nature: The trip to Lansdowne taught me how important and beautiful nature is. Seeing the cleanliness and greenery here, we learned how important it is to take care of the environment.
- Enjoyment of the journey: Additionally, there were many unplanned experiences during the journey to Lansdowne, such as sudden changes in weather and winding roads amidst huge trees. However, these experiences taught us to enjoy the uncertainty in every journey, and these moments make the journey even more memorable.
- Art of Driving: In these mountains I really understood the meaning of driving with discipline. Initially, there was both fear and nervousness because the roads were so small and narrow with winding turns. However, everything was new to me. Anyway, I am very thankful that I came on this journey.
Share your Experience through comments
I experienced many memorable moments and valuable lessons during my visit to Lansdowne. Now, we would like to hear about your experiences as well. Have you also traveled to Lansdowne? Share your experiences, memorable moments and lessons learned with us.
You are requested to Share Experience
- Have you visited Tip-in-Top or Bhulla Tal?
- Have you experienced the peace of St. Mary’s Church?
- Enjoyed local festivals or cuisine?
Ask questions
- Planning a trip to Lansdowne and have any questions?
- Need any tips or special information for traveling?
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