Lansdowne

Lansdowne doesn't have a huge number of tourist attractions, but the ones it does have offer endearing experiences you will not get anywhere else. The most prominent tourist spot in Lansdowne is Tip-n-Top (also known as Tiffin Top), which is a hilltop in Lansdowne that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the mist-shrouded Shivalik range. Surrounded by towering oak and pine forests, this hilltop view point is an amazing place to view mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets. An artificial lake named Bhulla Taal, a little away from the hilltop, is the ideal place to sit back and relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Bhulla Taal is a popular bird-watching spot, and it offers boat rides as well. Another hilltop viewpoint in Lansdowne that tourists frequent is Hawaghar, which, as the name suggests, is a place where you can literally feel the cold mountain air blowing through your hair as you look out towards the snow-capped Himalayan mountain peaks.

To get a feel of the town's history, visiting the Garhwali Mess is a must. One of the oldest existing British buildings in Lansdowne, the Garhwali Mess is now owned by the Indian Army, and offers realistic insight into India's post-Independence history. Other tourists spots in Lansdowne include St. Mary's Church, St. John's Church, and the Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial, which is a must-visit for history buffs.

Lansdowne is known for its local Garhwali cuisine, so don't forget to try out the local delicacies such as Phaanu, Kafuli and Kulath ki dal, as well as desserts such as Arsa and Gulgula.

Lansdowne has been an important attraction for the tourists seeking a peaceful vacation away from the hustle-bustle of the cities. Lansdowne at times is a very good alternative for Rishikesh. Many travellers visit Lansdowne instead of Rishikesh to avoid the tourist rush. With the same scenic beauty, Lansdowne offers the tranquillity and antiquity of the British era.

Located in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, the history of Lansdowne is culturally influenced by the British rule during the Raj era. Earlier known as ‘Kalundanda’ meaning Black hill in Garhwali, the place got its name after the then Viceroy of India Lord Lansdowne in 1857. The British rulers established the Garhwal Rifles cantonment of the armed forces here, and the first battalion was shifted from Almora to Lansdowne. The untouched serenity and calmness made it an ideal escape for troops and troopers to hide in. Central Lansdowne cradles one of the oldest war museums, maintained and only accessible by the army which showcases the historical influences this place holds.

The most delicious and convenient option for food here would be the hotels, lodges and resorts, since there aren't too many restaurants here. One can find Chinese, Indian, Mughlai, Marwari, Garhwali as well as Continental cuisines. One can also relish Chinese, Tibetan as well as a number of non-vegetarian delicacies here. The local cuisine of Uttarakhand the you might find here includes Bhaang Ki Khatai, Kappa (a green curry), Sisunak Saag(a dish prepared with green leafy vegetables and many local ingredients), Aloo ke Gutke( a Kumauni potato dish), Rus ( a preparation of many dals) and more.
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Day 1: Arrive at Dehradun airport or Kotdwar railway station. Transfer to Lansdowne in a private cab. Check-in at the hotel. Visit St John's Church and Darwan Singh Regimental museum.
Day 2: Trek to Tiffin Top, to enjoy the beautiful and panoramic view of the Shivalik ranges. Visit the Bhulla Lake and enjoy the serene ambience. Later, visit the Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple, located at an elevation of 2092 meters.