Weekend in Lansdowne: A Hidden Gem in Uttarakhand’s Cantonment Belt

Key Highlights

• Spend a peaceful weekend exploring one of the hidden hill stations in Uttarakhand.
• Discover colonial-era churches, army museums, and stunning viewpoints.
• Enjoy boating, short hikes, and serene walks around the cantonment area.
• Learn about the military history in Lansdowne at the Garhwal Rifles War Memorial.
• Book budget-friendly holiday packages and flights easily through udChalo.

Looking for a peaceful escape tucked away in the hills? A Lansdowne weekend trip might be just what you need. This quiet cantonment town in Uttarakhand, originally established by the British, offers fresh mountain air, colonial charm, and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you are a defence family, a solo traveller, or a group of friends, Lansdowne promises a refreshing break away from the crowds. Let us take you through a detailed Lansdowne travel guide to plan a memorable offbeat getaway.

Why Lansdowne?

Lansdowne is one of the most hidden hill stations in Uttarakhand. It sits calmly at an altitude of 1,700 metres, surrounded by oak and pine forests. As a well-maintained cantonment town to visit in India, it is clean, less commercialised, and has a strong connection with the Indian Army.

You will find colonial-era buildings, war memorials, and even army-run museums here. It is a place where you can slow down, breathe easy, and soak in the views.

2-Day Lansdowne Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Reach Lansdowne: Drive down from Delhi or Dehradun early morning. The nearest railway station is Kotdwar, just 40 km away.
• Bhulla Lake: Start your day with boating at this serene, army-maintained lake.
• Tip-in-Top: A short hike leads you to panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
• St. Mary's Church: Visit this beautiful 19th-century church with a small museum inside.
• War Memorial: Located at the Parade Ground, this memorial honours the brave Garhwal Rifles soldiers. The history and discipline of the regiment make this a must-visit.
• Evening Stroll: Walk through the Mall Road and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.

Travel Tip: Carry a light jacket even in summer evenings—it can get chilly.

Day 2: Hidden Trails and Local Culture

• Garhwali Museum: Run by the Indian Army, this museum displays rare photographs, uniforms, and weapons from different eras. A must for history buffs.
• Jungle Safari: Book a morning safari in the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve nearby.
• Durga Devi Temple: A peaceful temple situated by a river, perfect for some quiet reflection.
• Local Cafes: Have a slow lunch at one of the few rustic cafes serving Himalayan flavours.
• Sunset at Santoshi Mata Temple: End your trip with a mesmerising sunset view.

Hack: Start early if you plan to visit nearby forest areas. It can get foggy by late afternoon.

Best Time to Visit Lansdowne

• Summer (April to June): Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
• Monsoon (July to September): Lush greenery, but landslides are common.
• Winter (October to March): Crisp cold air and occasional snowfall.

Seasonal Tip: Summer is ideal for long walks and picnics. Carry rainwear if travelling during the monsoon.

What to Avoid

• Do not expect nightlife or heavy shopping. Lansdowne is for slow travel.
• Avoid planning heavy outdoor activities during the monsoon due to slippery roads.
• Mobile network can be patchy. Plan ahead.

Hidden Gems You Should Not Miss

• Bhulla Lake: Tranquil and army-maintained, perfect for boating and relaxing.
• Garhwali Mess: One of the oldest buildings here, dating back to 1888. You cannot enter, but you can admire the architecture.
• St. John’s Church: Another British-era church worth visiting.
• Kalagarh Tiger Reserve: A less crowded wildlife spot about two hours away.

Lansdowne’s Military Legacy

Lansdowne is the regimental centre of the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army. Established in 1887, the town is steeped in military history.
The Garhwal Rifles War Memorial and Museum are well-maintained and offer insights into India’s military past. The town's neatness, discipline, and old colonial buildings still reflect its army roots.

Plan Your Trip with udChalo

Planning your Lansdowne weekend trip just got easier with udChalo’s exclusive holiday packages. From travel bookings to customised stays, udChalo offers affordable deals perfect for a quick hill getaway. Explore flight options and curated stays that make your journey seamless and budget-friendly. Book your next adventure with udChalo and make memories in this hidden gem.

Explore udChalo Holidays here.

FAQs

Q1. How do I reach Lansdowne from Delhi?
You can drive, take a train to Kotdwar, or use bus services. Taxis are easily available from Kotdwar.

Q2. Is Lansdowne safe for solo travellers and families?
Yes, it is one of the safest and cleanest hill stations in India, especially with its army presence.

Q3. What are the best things to do in Lansdowne?
Boating at Bhulla Lake, visiting colonial churches, exploring the War Memorial, and nature walks.

Q4. What is the best time for a Lansdowne weekend trip?
April to June for summer trips and October to March for winter lovers.

Q5. How many days are enough for Lansdowne?
Two days are perfect for a peaceful exploration of the main sites.

Q6. Are there any hidden spots worth visiting?
Yes, Durga Devi Temple and Kalagarh Tiger Reserve are less explored.

Q7. Can I find good accommodation easily in Lansdowne?
Yes, many cosy hotels and army guesthouses offer comfortable stays.

Q8. What food should I try in Lansdowne?
Local Garhwali cuisine, momos, and piping hot chai at hillside cafes.

Q9. How is the mobile network in Lansdowne?
Coverage can be weak in some areas. Download offline maps before your trip.

Q10. How can udChalo help plan my Lansdowne trip?
With udChalo, you can easily book flights, find budget stays, and grab curated holiday packages for a smooth travel experience.