Lansdowne is a perfect weekend getaway for Delhities not only because it is 275 kms from the national capital but it is also hill station in Uttrakhand, at a height of 1780m, a place where natural beauty and history converge.

How do You Reach Lansdowne?

To drive to Landsdowne, the best route is via Kodtwar, the last rail head. The rest of the journey of 40 kms takes about an hour, on narrow roads through hamlets and towns (like Duggada, made famous by hunter and writer Jim Corbett), and forests of silver oak and pine.

The two trains are conveniently the day train (Garhwal Express) and the night one (Mussorie Express) which drop you at Kodtwar.

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant but the distance then by road is 148 kms.

A Cantonment Established by the British

It was himalayan weather and picturesque views that attracted the British to this hill station. It was converted to a cantonment town in1887 and named after its founder and Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne.

The first battalion of Garhwal Rifles, raised in Almora,  shifted to Lansdowne in 1887 and became the Recruit Training Centre. Many heritage buildings like the Officer’s Mess and bungalows are in use and in good condition. Lansdowne is a perfect weekend getaway; you can learn about the brave soldiers of Garhwal Rifles at the Regimental Museum.

Sightseeing and Accommodation

This sleepy hill station has its view point called Tip-in-Top, with a view of the rolling valley below.

Temples and Churches proclaim history of their own and include the Mary’s Church, St. John’s Church, Kaleshwar Temple and the Garhwal Rifles’ Regimental Temple. 

A lake with boating facilities is Bhulla Tal, another noteworthy contribution by the Garhwal Rifles.  The local market has its own multi-cusine restaurants and essentials.

The areas around Lansdowne have home stays and resorts , and that is why Lansdowne is  a perfect weekend getaway.