Originally known as “Kaludanda” meaning the “Black Hill”, Lansdowne is a small village in Garhwali in Uttarakhand known for its scenic beauty. This village was named after the Viceroy of India Lord Lansdowne in 1887. A combination of a pleasant climate and romantic atmosphere is what makes this village a pure tourist delight. Apart from its scenic beauty this village is also secluded and thus makes for a perfect destination for families to relax and enjoy. The presence of forest consisting of oak and pine, snow-capped mountains, and the serenity in the environment not only adds to the beauty of this village but, also makes it a perfect tourist destination. So if your intention is to enjoy natural beauty in seclusion then “Lansdowne” is definitely a destination that you need to visit.
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How to reach Lansdowne?
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Lansdowne Map
By train:
The closest station to Lansdowne is Kotdwar railway station in Uttarakhand which is well connected to major cities to India like Kolkata and Delhi. Taxi services to Lansdowne from Kotdwar are available.
By road:
There are many bus services available from many cities in and around Lansdowne. Regular private and public bus services are also available from Dehradun, Haridwar, and Mussoorie to Lansdowne. Additional frequent bus services between Delhi and Kotdwar are also available. Dehradun and Mussoorie are starting points located at close proximity to Lansdowne.
a. How to reach Lansdowne from Dehradun : The shortest route to reach Lansdowne from Dehradun is via NH534 as depicted in the map above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
b. How to reach Lansdowne from Mussoorie : The fastest route from Mussoorie to Lansdowne is via NH534 and the route map is depicted above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
By flight:
The closest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Taxi services to Lansdowne are available from this airport. The closest international airport is in Delhi which is well connected to most of the major cities in the country.
Climate and the best time to visit Lansdowne
The climate in Lansdowne can be termed as “pleasant” throughout the year. With the temperature during summer (March to June) ranging from 15 degrees to 30 degrees. The monsoons begin in July and end in October and this village receives heavy rainfalls as result of which lot greenery in the environment is observed. Winter months that begin in December and end in February are severe and ranges from 4 degrees to 17 degrees. A lot snowfall observed between January and February. The best time to visit this beautiful hamlet is during summer.
Places To Visit Around Lansdowne
TarkeshwarMahadev Temple: This temple is a very holy site where the residing deity is Lord Shiva. The Mahashivarathri festival is celebrated here with great pomp and show. The temple is beautifully encircled by thick forests of oak, deodars, and blue pine.
Kanvashram: This sacred ashram is engulfed by dense woods and hills, making it a real treat for the eyes. The Malini River nearby is an added attraction.
BhimPakora: It has a historical significance. It is believed that Bhima, one of the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata, had arranged the rocks on top of one another in such a way that they do not topple down.
Bhulla Tal: It is a manmade lake dedicated to the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles, who helped build the lake. The lake has facilities for paddling and boating.
St. Mary’s Church: Constructed in 1895 by Col. A.H.B Hume, this has a museum that houses magnificent pictures from the pre-independence period.
Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial: Established by Lord Rawlinson of Trent, this museum gives us a deep insight on the Indian Army’s background.
Durga Devi Temple: This cave temple is devoted to Goddess Durga and is located on the banks of River Khoh.
Garhwali Mess: It is a very old heritage site that showcases the rich heritage of the Army of India. The museum houses some splendid wild animal skin. The dial inside the museum points towards Chaukhamba, Nandadevi, Kamet, and various other Himalayan peaks.
Hawaghar: It is an extremely idyllic location that offers stupendous sight of the snowcapped Himalayas. One can indulge in trekking at this location.
Jungle Safari: It is the most popular outdoor activity in Lansdowne where one can embark on a jungle safari through groves of pine and oak. The large variety of flora and fauna is bound to enthrall any traveler.
Regimental Museum: Named after Darban Singh Negi, who received the Victoria Cross bravery award, this museum was opened in 1983. The museum houses valuable articles that belonged to the Garhwal Rifles.
Tip-In-Top: This place is also called Tiffin Top and provides a brilliant view of the snowcapped Himalayas. Some portions of Tibet are also visible from here.
St. John’s Church: This is the only church for worship in the whole of Lansdowne. This is a Roman Catholic Church that was reopened in 1980.
Other places of interest in close proximity to Lansdowne that can be planned as a weekend getaway from Lansdowne include PauriGarhwal, Khirsu, KaleshwarMahadev, Langoorgarhi Fort, BhairavGarhi, and Siddhbali Temple.
Accommodation – Hotels, Resorts and Home Stays in and around Lansdowne :
Click on the link here to check out the places to stay near Lansdowne, Uttarakhand on Google Maps.
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