Lansdowne Hill Station

Lansdowne was quite popular among British during raj times. Scorched in north Indian summers, British found respite in Lansdowne. Its proximity to Delhi gave it a similar popularity as Mussoorie got during the same time. Originally known as Kaludanda, in 1887 Lansdowne got its named after then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne.
Soon after, Lansdowne was developed as major army establishment used for training of Garhwal Rifles. Even today Lansdowne retains its military importance. Indian army has its command office in Lansdowne and most of the town is still populated by army personnel.

A salubrious weather greets tourists coming to Lansdowne. The surreal backdrop of mighty himalayas leaves visitors mesmerized. People of Lansdowne and Garhwal rifles have put immense effort to preserve flora and fauna of Lansdowne region, Because of its preserved natural resources, Lansdowne is perfect for eco tourism.

Situated at a height of 1,400 meters (4,593 feet), Lansdowne enjoys moderate weathers as compared to other hill stations like Mussoorie and Darjeeling. Winters are cold but not freezing, and summers are pleasant. Surrounding area of Lansdowne is covered with thick oak forest and occasional apple gardens. On north of Lansdowne, you can see snow peaks of Badrinath division.

Lansdowne is also a place of interest for historians. In an excavation during 1956 coins of Yaudheya era were found in Lansdowne. These coins date back to 3rd centaury AD. With these findings it is evident that Lansdowne could had been a important township in ancient India. However its present day popularity began only after the opening of opening of Garhwal rifles division by British.

How to reach Lansdowne: The nearest major railway station is Kotdwar which is some 45 Km from Lansdowne. Kotdwar is also the entry point if you want to reach Lansdowne by your own vehicle. Kotdwar is well connected with most of the cities in Uttarakhand. Kotdwar is some 5 hours drive from New Delhi.

Best time to visit is throughout the year although May/June may be a bit crowded and rooms difficult to find.

 See

Santoshi Mata Temple
Tiffin Top – a view point
Snow View – a view point
Garhwal Rifles Museum
The War Memorial at the Parade Ground of the Garhwal Rifles Center is an attraction for the visitors
Bhulla Taal
St. Mary’s Church.
Bhairav Garhi temple
Annual ‘Sharadotsav’ (Festival of Autumn) is also organized at this hill station during autumn season.
Jwalpa Devi (47 km)
Durga Devi temple (24 km)
Tarkeshwar Mahadev (30 km)
Karnva Ashram (14 km) – where Shakuntala is said to have given birth to Raja Bharat