Landour is the twin city of Mussoorie and epitomizes natural beauty. Located away from skyscrapers and malls, Landour has its own attractions. From taking idle walks and following the writings of Ruskin Bond to visiting historic churches, Landour has a lot to offer you.
The colonial town of Landour is often found in Ruskin Bond’s books. The tall French windows, the colloidal-style gardens, and the little shops, all have his thinking about his days in Landour from his books.
When you reach this place, you realize how it still clings to the colonial era. The houses, gardens, and even the shops still look like they are stuck in an era long gone. Even today the old English practice is prevalent in this hamlet.
Landour is also blessed with nature, and the intimidating Himalayas are omnipresent in the backdrop. Landour is the kind of place where there is so much to do and explore, yet all these activities are done in a relaxed and genuine manner, making the experience more about relaxation.
Landour History, Mussoorie
Landour was initially built by and for the British Indian Army. From 1827 when a sanatorium was built at Landour, the town was a convalescent station for the army, and hence much of this place is a cantonment. The original hospital is now under the possession of DRDO’s Institute of Technology Management (“ITM”); It is on the eastern end of Landour Ridge.
In the early 20th century, a full British Military Hospital (BMH) was opened, with a medical staff that specialized in tropical diseases, the hospital closed soon after 1947. Also within the ITM complex are the Ex-Servicemen’s Furlough Home, a holiday home for British and Irish servicemen and JCOs in Indian regiments who lacked the means to return to Europe regularly.
Or, leave soldiers serving in rotating British regiments in India, with their tours of duty lasting anywhere from 6 to 48 months. In terms of area, Landour Cantonment covers about two-thirds of this place; The rest comprises the Landour Bazaar, which stretches along the spur that connects to Mussoorie.
Places To Visit in Landour
Lal Tibba
When you are at the roundabout, you will see a place called Lal Tibba, which means red hills. The place is quite easy to identify, it is marked by the lateral reddish hills, especially during sunset and sunrise. It is the highest point in Landour, and you can relax with a cup of coffee while watching the breathtaking sunset.
The cafe also has an amazing terrace, and for a fee of just Rs 20, you can eat there and enjoy an uninterrupted view of the Himalayas. If you wish, you can also carry a set of binoculars with you to view the peaks. From here you should be able to see the peaks of the Chota Char Dham Yatra: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.
Char Dukan
One of the most famous places of Landour is the Char Shop area. It’s essentially a row of iconic shops that have been here since colonial times. It is away from the maddening crowd. The shops are full of anecdotes, and you should sit down with the shopkeepers and hear all their stories. It is not only a great way to connect with the locals but also a great way to know more about this hill town. While at Char Dukan, you must try some of the tantalizing Banana Nutella Pancakes and Yummy Pan Pizzas.
Kellogg’s Memorial Church and Language School
Kellogg’s Church A ballad of Gothic architecture built in 1903 and named after Dr. Samuel Kellogg, Kellogg’s Memorial Church is yet another tourist-time haunt. It is said that this was the institution where Hindi was taught to the British. The Gothic architectural style and wildly designed interiors take you back in time to the Victorian era and thus, this place is a must-visit.
St. Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s Church is an Anglican church established in 1839. It is one of the oldest establishments in Landour which is a splendid example of English architecture. The church has great historical significance as one can find records and remains of the Revolt of 1857, a mass rebellion of Indians against British rule. It has a capacity of about 250 people and intricately designed interiors that attract a large number of passengers.
Things To Do At Landour
Jabarkhet Sanctuary
Located just a short distance from Landour Cantonment, Jabarkhet Sanctuary is perfect for visitors looking to spend the day with some flora and fauna. This national park has a plethora of animals like bears, porcupines, and leopards. Take a bus trek amidst the lush green trees and alert all your senses. Please note, you will need to book in advance for treks inside the Jabarkhet Reserve. The entry fee is approximately INR 450. You should also take a guide to make your experience more practical and fulfilling. If you require a guide let them know while booking the trek.
Nature At its Best
If you want to take a long, authentic, and rejuvenating walk, then Landour is the perfect place for you. Landour is blessed with stunning views and gorgeous rivulets that make everything seem so dreamy. Just pick and choose the route and keep going, and experience the true beauty of this place.
Walk your walking trails, walk through the misty pine forest, and let the scent of the trees wash over you. Follow it up with a quiet walk through the mountains, and watch the rolling hills adorn the horizon. It is simply mesmerizing to walk for hours and hours here, and you will surely fall in love with Landour even more.
Witches Hill
If you want to go trekking in Landour, then Witches Hill is the perfect place for you. This trail not only amazes you with unique natural beauty but also holds some secrets. It was once a popular hunting ground for the royal family of Mussoorie, however, it soon became a no man’s land after several forest fires and lightning strikes.
Nevertheless, it remains a famous hiking trail. You will also find the prestigious Woodstock School of Landour on this trail. In Landour, you will find everything idyllic and serene. Everything moves in its own time, there is no rush, and time just seems to flow by. It is a blissful place for people looking for a break from the city life. This place is a place that inspires writers and poets and there is no doubt that you will fall in love with the place once you are here.
Best Time To Visit Landour
The best time to visit Landour is during the summer months, ie from April to May, as the city is in full swing. The days are warm with clear skies and the temperature reaches around 30°C, while the nights are cool and windy and the mercury drops to 10°C. While cotton clothes can be used during the day, woolen clothes are recommended in the evening to prevent cold winds.
How To Reach
By Air:- The nearest airport, Jolly Grant, is about 60 km away in Dehradun and is well-connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. One can take a Volvo or a public bus from the Dehradun terminus and reach Mussoorie, after which Landour is just a short drive away.
By Train:- Rail connectivity to Dehradun is excellent from cities like Lucknow, Amritsar, Haridwar, etc. The station is about 40 km from Landour from where private taxis or direct buses can be taken to this place.
By Road:- Traveling by road is another viable option for people living in Uttarakhand or bordering states. Uttarakhand is endowed with an excellent network of roads as well as a complement of scenery, which is why many tourists from these regions prefer this mode of transport.
NOTE:- In this article, we cover all the important details regarding Landour, Mussoorie(Uttarakhand) like the best time to visit, and Activities you can do in this place, Still If you have any other queries you can visit the gov official website of Uttarakhand Tourism. And If you want to know the best places to visit in Uttarakhand then visit our website uttarakhandeyes.com.
