Lansdowne

State

Lansdowne is one of North India's quietest and least frequented hill stations, named after the fifth Marques of Lansdowne, Lord Henry Charles Keith Petty Fitz Maurice. It is surrounded by thick forests of oak and blue pine, a charming hill destination devoid of the usual hustle bustle other hill stations.

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History

The place was named after the 5th Marques of Lansdowne, Lord Henry Charles Keith Petty Fitz- Maurice who was also the Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1894. The place full of charming beauty became a popular hill station during the British Raj when the sahibs from the Army galloped across the ridge to view the jagged snow covered peaks of the Greater Himalayas and the beautifully spread out valley below.

Accessibility

Air: Nearest airport is Jollygrant in Dehradoon which is about 100 km away from Lansdowne. Jollygrant airport, Dehradun is connected to Delhi airport. Taxi services are available from airport to Lansdowne and it costs about Rs 2000. Delhi is the nearest international airport which is 235 km away from Lansdowne. Delhi is well connected to all major cities in India and many cities abroad.

Rail: Nearest railway station is Kotdwar, which is nearly 40 km away from Lansdowne. This station is connected to all cities in India. Taxi services are available from Kotdwar to Lansdowne, costing about Rs 750.

Road: Lansdowne is well connected to many cities in the region by buses. Private and public buses offer services from Lansdowne to Kotdwar (40 km) in regular intervals. Kotdwar is connected to Delhi by tourist deluxe buses. Lansdowne is connected to Hardwar, Dehradun and Mussoorie.

Things to do

Bird Watching
The close proximity of Lansdowne to the Sona Nadi division of Corbett National Park makes it an ideal bird watching area as well. There are about 600 species of birds that migrate to Lansdowne every year. So, for those interested in bird watching, all you need to do is just invest in a good pair of binoculars. The colorful birds forming a spectacular plumage in the sky would be an enthralling site for you to revel in.

Jungle Safari: The thick forest surrounding the Lansdowne is an apt place for Jungle safari. The thick Oak trees and blue pine woods make the environment of the surrounding forest challenging for the adventurous tourist. The forests enclose many wild flora and fauna. The atmosphere is very cool all through the year and well planned Jungle safari or forest walk will give the enthusiasts travelers the much needed challenge, physical activities and dynamic benevolence. Many tour agents arrange the planned jungle safari with affordable rates in the forests surrounding the Lansdowne hill station.

Nature Walk
Instead of reveling in the charm and beauty of the place superficially, explore the place and soak yourself in its allure. The best way to have an enthralling stay in this hill station would be to indulge in nature walk. Enveloped by thick oak trees and blue pine woods, amidst wild flora and fauna, the place extends tourists just the right opportunity to have a walk in the blissful surrounding. For instance, you can walk up to Tiffin Top, near the Supply Depot, and even stroll around to the Snow View Point, from above the State Bank of India branch.

Trekking
Trekkers are sure to define Lansdowne as a haven, what with the hill station providing umpteen opportunities for hiking. A number of treks into the hillside are launched from Lansdowne, which serves as a popular base camp. You can indulge in simple treks that last for an hour or go for those that last for a couple of days. Some of the trekking trails:
You can also visit the waterworks and the Malini Barrage, which are just a kilometre away from the GMVN Tourist Rest House. The final stretch is however a bit tricky and requires you to pass through a landslide-prone area
There is also a trek from Kalal Ghati, a small junction, which takes you to a bifurcation. Take the lantana-covered rubble strip from there and you will find yourself reaching the gate of the Kanvashram TRH soon.
If you have the time, visit Pauri (82 km from Lansdowne) and undertake the trek to Kandoliya Devta temple, which offers you anawe inspiring view of the glorious Himalayan peaks and the spectacular Gangwarsyun Valley.

Wildlife
For adventure enthusiasts, Lansdowne is nothing less than a paradise. The large stretch of wilds in the Kalagarh Wildlife Sanctuary would rightly cater to your interest, making the trip an absolutely pleasurable experience. The cool and subtle atmosphere will act as a, boon further stimulating your craving for adventure. However, make sure you abide by all the safety measures during the wildlife tour.

District
Pauri Garhwal
STD Code
01368
Termperature
Summer 15 to 30°C, Winter -4 to 17°C
Best time to visit
March to October