Lansdowne is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of around 1,700 meters above sea level, it’s known for its tranquil surroundings, lush greenery, and colonial-era charm. Named after the then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne, this hill town offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is popular for its pleasant weather, making it a sought-after destination for tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.
| Location | Pauri Garhwal |
| Famous For | Hill Station, Trekking, |
| Altitude | 1700 mtrs |
| Railway Station /Nearest Airport Jolly Grant | 40 kms / 148 kms |
History of Lansdowne
Lansdowne was founded by Lord Lansdowne, the then Viceroy of India, in 1887. It was originally established as a military garrison for the Garhwal Rifles of the British Indian Army. The location was strategically chosen for its vantage point and its relatively cooler climate, offering respite from the scorching heat prevalent in the plains.
Initially intended as a training center for the Garhwal Rifles, Lansdowne quickly grew into a vital hub for the British forces in India. The town was named after Lord Lansdowne, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1894.
After India gained independence in 1947, the cantonment remained an important military center for the Indian Army. It continued to be a prominent location for the Garhwal Rifles.
Activities In Lansdowne
Lansdowne, a charming hill station in India, offers various activities for visitors seeking tranquility and adventure. Here are some popular things to do in Lansdowne:
Bhulla Lake: Enjoy a serene boating experience or simply relax by the lake surrounded by lush greenery.
Trekking: Lansdowne has several trekking trails like the Lover’s Lane, Hawaghar, and Tip-in-Top that offer beautiful views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.
War Memorial: Pay homage to the Garhwal Rifles regiment at the War Memorial, showcasing historical artifacts and photographs.
Jungle Safari: Explore the wilderness through a jungle safari at the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve or nearby areas to witness diverse flora and fauna.
Tip-n-Top Viewpoint: Capture panoramic views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys from this popular viewpoint.
Camping: Set up camp at various scenic spots around Lansdowne to experience the beauty of nature up close.
Photography: Lansdowne offers picturesque landscapes, making it a perfect destination for photography enthusiasts.
Shopping: Explore local markets for handicrafts, woolens, and souvenirs unique to the region.
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How To Reach Lansdowne
By Road
From Delhi: Lansdowne is about 250 kilometers from Delhi. You can drive via NH534 or take a bus from Delhi’s Anand Vihar ISBT.
From Dehradun: Lansdowne is approximately 150 kilometers away. You can drive or take a bus from Dehradun to reach Lansdowne.
From other nearby towns: Regular buses and taxis are available from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Pauri to Lansdowne.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Lansdowne is Kotdwar, situated at a distance of around 40 km. From Kotdwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Lansdowne. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
By Air
The nearest airport to Lansdowne is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 150 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use bus services to reach Lansdowne.