Tucked up in the lush lap of the Garhwal Himalayas, Landour entices visitors with its peaceful, ageless beauty. This ancient cantonment town has a peaceful elegance, unlike its busy neighbour, Mussoorie, with its cobbled streets whispering tales of bygone eras. Any traveller seeking a romantic retreat, a thought-provoking escape, or an adventure amid stunning scenery will find something unique at Landour.
Rewinding Time
Every stone and charming hamlet in Landour has the scars of its colonial past. Take a stroll along busy Char Dukan, where four old stores have been guarding the area for more than a century, their shelves filled with curiosities and mementos from the area. See the exquisite Gothic Revival architecture of St. Paul’s Church or stroll along the Kipling Trail, named for the well-known writer who took comfort in the peace of Landour.
The Armor of Nature
The lush tapestry of Landour opens up like a watercolour painting. Wander down Camel’s Back Road, a picturesque path providing expansive views of the valley below, or follow the babbling stream while hiking through aromatic pine forests thick with mist. The more daring can hike to the highest peak in the area, Lal Tibba, where they can take in the breathtaking view of the Himalayas covered in snow that stretches for miles.
A Literary Haven
Landour has long been a muse for writers and poets. Ruskin Bond’s evocative descriptions of the town come alive as you wander through its lanes, and the echoes of Kipling’s verse linger in the crisp mountain air. Visit the iconic Writers’ Building, where literary giants like Ruskin Bond and William Makepeace Thackeray once resided, or simply curl up with a good book in a cosy café, letting the magic of Landour inspire your creativity.
An Everlasting Enchantment
Landour falls asleep peacefully as the sun sets, illuminating the sky with orange and gold tones. The distant murmur of life and the chirping of crickets permeate the air, lulling you to relax and find your inner peace. Landour provides a spiritual retreat where time slows down and lifelong memories are forged in this timeless haven amid the whispers of history and the embrace of nature.
Organising Your Escape from Landour:
When to Go: The allure of Landour never goes out of style. The monsoon season (July to August) turns the hills an emerald green, while spring (March to June) brings nice temperatures and colourful blooms. Clear skies and cool air characterise autumn (September–November), while winter (December–February) hints at cold and the potential for snowfall.
How to Get There: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, and buses and taxis can take you to Landour. An alternative is going to Dehradun by train and renting a taxi.
Where to Stay: There are several lodging options available in Landour, ranging from luxurious resorts with panoramic views to quaint heritage hotels and comfortable homestays. Pick one based on your tastes and financial situation.
Landour offers an amazing adventure, an opportunity to lose yourself in the Himalayan embrace and rediscover the basic pleasures of life, all for the price of a little preparation and an open heart. Thus, prepare your belongings, put on your shoes, and embark on a unique Landour journey.
