Lansdowne Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Lansdowne, Uttarakhand with this extensive travel guide featuring a variety of attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and important travel information.
- Introduction to Lansdowne
- List of Places to Visit in Lansdowne
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lansdowne
- Best Things to Do in Lansdowne: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lansdowne
- Food and Drink Scene of Lansdowne
- Where to Stay in Lansdowne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lansdowne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lansdowne
- Best Time to Visit Lansdowne
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lansdowne
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lansdowne: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lansdowne
- Where to Go Next from Lansdowne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Lansdowne
Located in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, in the Himalayan North of India, Lansdowne is a serene hill station boasting of natural beauty, cultural significance, and historical importance. Named after the then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne, this picturesque town was established as a military garrison during the British era. Today, it’s a popular tourist spot and a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike.
List of Places to Visit in Lansdowne
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial: A museum dedicated to the Garhwal Rifles Regiment, showcasing their achievements and sacrifices for the nation.
- St. Mary’s Church: A 19th-century church built by the British, known for its exquisite architecture and serene ambiance.
- Tip-in-Top Point: A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the snow-clad Trishul and Chaukhamba peaks.
Natural Attractions of Lansdowne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Bhulla Lake: A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for boating, picnics, and spending leisure time.
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated amidst scenic natural surroundings.
- Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: Another ancient temple located on the banks of the Kho river, surrounded by forests and hills.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lansdowne
- Lansdowne to Bhairav Garhi Trek: A moderate trek through the dense forests, offering scenic views of the Himalayas and the town below.
- Kotdwar to Lansdowne Cycling Route: A 43 km cycling route, starting from Kotdwar and passing through scenic countryside roads, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding hills.
Best Things to Do in Lansdowne: Activities and Tours
- Adventure Sports: Lansdowne is a hub for adventure sports such as trekking, camping, rock climbing, rappelling, and river rafting.
- Bird Watching: With its rich biodiversity, Lansdowne offers a great opportunity for bird watchers to spot a variety of species.
- Photography: Lansdowne’s natural beauty and historical significance offer endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lansdowne
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Lansdowne, visit St. Mary’s Church, and Tip-in-Top Point |
| 2 | Trek to Bhairav Garhi and explore the nearby market |
| 3 | Visit Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple and Bhulla Lake for some nature time |
| 4 | Explore Lansdowne town, visit Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial, and take a heritage walk |
| 5 | Go for a cycling trip from Kotdwar to Lansdowne and explore the countryside |
| 6 | Go for river rafting on the Ganga River and experience the thrill of adventure sports |
| 7 | Depart from Lansdowne with unforgettable memories |
Food and Drink Scene of Lansdowne
Must-Try Dishes
- Aloo Gobhi: A popular North Indian dish made of boiled potatoes and cauliflower, served with rice or roti.
- Kumauni Raita: A yogurt-based dish with a local twist, made with local spices and ingredients.
- Ragi Roti: A gluten-free, nutritious dish made with ragi flour, served with a side of sabzi or dal.
Local Beverages
- Chhaang: A traditional alcoholic beverage made with barley or millet, popular in the Himalayan region.
- Kadha: A herbal tea made with local spices and herbs, known for its medicinal properties.
- Buransh: A refreshing drink made from the rhododendron flower, native to the Himalayan region.
Where to Stay in Lansdowne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Vanvasa Resort: A luxurious resort offering a stunning view of the valley and the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Kasang Regency Hill Resort: A comfortable stay with a peaceful ambiance, located amidst thick oak forests.
- S.B. Mount Resort: An affordable and cozy place to stay, offering all basic amenities and a beautiful view of the valley.
What to Buy in Lansdowne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Kumaoni Shawls: Made of wool and cotton, these shawls are famous for their exquisite embroidery and colorful designs.
- Antique Brass Items: Skilled local artisans make brass items with intricate designs, showcasing the rich culture of the place.
- Honey: Known for its medicinal properties and natural sweetness, the honey produced in the nearby regions is a must-buy.
Local Culture and Customs of Lansdowne
Lansdowne is home to many indigenous tribes and people who still follow the traditional way of life. Respect their culture and customs, dress modestly, and seek permission before taking pictures of people.
Best Time to Visit Lansdowne
The best time to visit Lansdowne is from March to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The monsoon season (June to September) is best avoided due to the heavy rainfall and landslides.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lansdowne
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Carry light woolen clothes, as the weather can get chilly at night.
- Carry sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses as the sun can get intense during the day.
- Drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent any health issues.
Don’t:
- Litter or harm the environment.
- Tease or disturb wildlife.
- Take photographs of people without seeking their permission.
- Engage in any illegal activities.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lansdowne
Lansdowne is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions and avoid isolated areas at night. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including valid identification and travel documents, with you at all times.
Health in Lansdowne
Lansdowne has basic medical facilities, but it’s best to carry a first aid kit with you. Carry your necessary medications, insect repellent, and sun cream to avoid any health issues.
Getting to Lansdowne: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Lansdowne
The nearest airport to Lansdowne is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located around 150 km away.
Bus Stations Near Lansdowne
Lansdowne is well-connected by road to major cities in North India. The nearest bus stations are in Kotdwar (41 km) and Rishikesh (110 km).
Other Options
One can also reach Lansdowne by taking a train to Kotdwar (41 km) or Dehradun (150 km).
How to Get Around in Lansdowne
It is advisable to hire a taxi or take a guided tour to visit different attractions in and around Lansdowne. Buses and shared taxis are also available for short distances.
Where to Go Next from Lansdowne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Corbett National Park: One of India’s oldest and most famous national parks, located around 135 km from Lansdowne, is home to a variety of wildlife species and scenic beauty.
- Auli: A beautiful hill station situated around 150 km from Lansdowne, known for its ski resorts and scenic beauty.
- Haridwar: A popular pilgrimage destination located around 100 km from Lansdowne, known for its Ganga Aarti and other religious significance.
Conclusion
Lansdowne is an ideal getaway for those seeking natural beauty, heritage, and adventure. Plan your trip well, and make sure to experience all the local culture, customs, and cuisines that this place has to offer.
