Best Places to Visit in Lansdowne

About Best Places to Visit in Lansdowne

Best Places to Visit in Lansdowne – Complete Travel Guide 2025

Lansdowne, nestled in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, is one of India’s most serene and least commercialized hill stations. Known for its pine-covered hills, colonial-era charm, and tranquil ambiance, it’s a perfect weekend escape for couples, solo travelers, and nature lovers. Whether you want to unwind or explore hidden trails, Lansdowne offers a peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots.

Top Places to Visit in Lansdowne

1. Tip-in-Top (Tiffin Top)

A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas. Ideal for sunrise and photography lovers.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset
Nearby: St. Mary’s Church

2. Bhulla Tal (Bhulla Lake)

A small, man-made lake maintained by the Indian Army. Enjoy boating, picnicking, and feeding ducks in a peaceful environment.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Boating extra)

3. St. John’s Church

A historic Roman Catholic church built in 1936, known for its peaceful aura and colonial-era architecture.

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free

4. War Memorial and Garhwal Rifles Regimental Museum

Located near the parade ground, this museum highlights the military history of the Garhwal Rifles, including weapons, medals, and documents.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50

5. Darwan Singh Regimental Museum

Another must-visit military museum named after Victoria Cross awardee Darwan Singh Negi. Showcases photographs, uniforms, and medals of the Indian Army.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Thursdays)

6. Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple

One of the oldest temples in Lansdowne, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s highly revered by locals and army personnel.

Atmosphere: Quiet, spiritual, and scenic.

7. Bhim Pakora

A natural wonder — two huge stones perfectly balanced one over the other. Local legend says Bhim (from Mahabharata) placed them here.

Fun Fact: You can rock the top stone gently, but it never falls!

8. Hawaghar

A lesser-known viewpoint offering uninterrupted views of the mountains and deep valleys. A great spot for short treks and birdwatching.

Things to Do in Lansdowne

• Boating at Bhulla Tal

• Nature walks and hiking through pine forests

• Explore colonial churches and museums

• Enjoy local Garhwali cuisine

• Stargazing and camping under clear skies

Where to Stay in Lansdowne

Budget:

• GMVN Tourist Rest House

• Hotel Ravine Palace

Mid-Range:

• Blue Pine Resort

• The Alpine Resort

Luxury:

• The Lansdowne Forest Palace

• Rio Resort

Local Food to Try

• Aloo ke Gutke

• Mandua (Ragi) Roti

• Pahadi Chicken Curry

• Try local thalis at small dhabas and homestays

Shopping in Lansdowne

• Wooden artifacts, woolens, and local spices

• Shop at Alaknanda Market and Jungle Bazaar for souvenirs and local products

Best Time to Visit Lansdowne

• March to June – Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing

• September to November – Clear skies, great for views and treks

• December to February – Winter chill and occasional snowfall

How to Reach Lansdowne

By Road:

• From Delhi – ~250 km (6–7 hours via NH534)

• Regular buses available from Kotdwar, Haridwar, and Delhi

By Train:

• Nearest Railway Station: Kotdwar (40 km)

• Taxis and shared cabs available from station

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (145 km)

Getting Around Lansdowne

• Auto-rickshaws and local taxis

• Best explored on foot or by rented scooters for local travel

Responsible Travel Tips

• Do not litter in forest areas or viewpoints

• Respect the peaceful and spiritual vibe of the town

• Avoid loud music and parties – Lansdowne is a quiet getaway

• Support eco-friendly and local businesses

 Final Thoughts

Lansdowne is one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets — ideal for slow travelers looking to escape the noise. Whether you want to sit by the lake, walk through pine-scented trails, or explore military history, Lansdowne offers peace, beauty, and simplicity in every moment.