Lansdowne is a cantonment town in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. This place is named after Lord Lansdowne, Viceroy of India in 1887. For the recruit training centres of Garhwal Rifles this place was developed by the Britishers. It is one of the hill stations in India. This place is surrounded by thick pine and oak forests. Earlier name of this place is Kaludanda. Most ancient temples are located here. One of those famous temples is Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple. This is the best place for natural lovers. Boating, Bird watching, Trekking can enjoy here. Mahashivratri celebrates so grandly here.
What to see in Lansdowne:
Tip In Top: This is situated near St.Mary’s Church. Spectacular view of snow covered Himalayas can enjoy from here. Trekking takes place here.
The Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial: This museum was founded by Lord Rawlinson of Trent on 11th November 1923. Major attraction of this place is war Memorial in the Parade Ground.
Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: It is one of the most ancient temples of the country. Lord Shiva is worshipped here.
Regimental Museum: This was established in 1983. It is named after Darban Singh Negi. Major attractions of this place are antique pieces belongings to Garhwal Rifles.
Bhulla Tal: This is an artificial lake. Bhulla means younger brother. Paddling and Boating can be enjoyed here. Other attractions of this place are fountains, bamboo machan and Children Park.
Garhwali Mess: In 1988, this was built by the Britishers. It is one of the oldest buildings in this hill station. This is the important museum in Asia. Major attractions of this museum are trophies, furnishings, skin of wild animals.
Lover’s Lane: It is one of the best trekking places. From these places visitors can enjoy the beauty of Himalayan peaks on one side and beauty of blue pine trees and oak trees on other side.
Hawaghar: It one of the beautiful places in the town. For Trekking this is the best place. To enjoy the beauty of the nature this is the best place.
St.Mary’s Church: This was constructed in 1895. Now this is converted into museum. Major attractions of this place are Pictures of Pre-independence era and audio visual displays of the history of the regiment.
What to see around Lansdowne:
Durga Devi Temple: It is located 25kms away from the town. Goddess Durga is worshipped here. Temple is situated inside the cave. It is one of the oldest Sidh Peeths.
Bhim Pakora: It is located in Dhura which is 14kms away from the town. It is believed that, during the period of exile, Pandavas stopped here and cooked food. Bhim placed one rock on other. It is so balancing.
Getting to Lansdowne: Only way to reach this place is through road way. From Pauri, Gopeshwar, Nainital etc buses come to this place. Nearest railway station is located at Kotdwar which is 37kms away from the town. From Puir, Bangalore, Kolkata, etc trains come to this place. Taxis are available to reach the Lansdowne town from Kotdwar. Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport which is 150kms away from the town. Taxis are available to reach the Lansdowne town from airport.
Getting around Lansdowne: Seeing the town on foot is the best option. Cabs are also available to see the places in the town. Buses and taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of the town.
Best time to visit Lansdowne: Town welcomes the visitors throughout the year. But winter is too cold. Best time to visit this place is between March to November.
Where to stay in Lansdowne: Limited accommodations are available to stay in this town. Apart from hotels, Dharmasalas maintained by the Mahadev temple management, Army Welfare board rest house are also available to stay in the town. Tourist rush is more between May and June. Advance booking is essential in those days
Where to eat in Lansdowne: Limited eating options in the town. Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisines are available. Parathas and Momos are popular at this place.