Lansdowne is a small hill town at about 1,700-1,780 m in Pauri Garhwal, about 40-44 km up the hills from Kotdwar. It is an army cantonment and the home of the Garhwal Rifles, so it is clean, green and far quieter than Mussoorie or Nainital. Most of the town sits among oak, pine and deodar forest, with views over the Garhwal hills.
People come for slow walks, sunrise and sunset at Tip-n-Top, a boat ride on Bhulla Tal, the War Memorial and regimental museum, and old colonial churches. There is little nightlife or big shopping; that is exactly why many visitors love it. From Delhi it is one of the closest hill towns, about 250 km away.
A short history
Local people called this ridge Kaludanda, 'the black hill', after its dark forests. In 1887 the British set up the training centre of the Garhwal Rifles here and named the town after Lord Lansdowne, then Viceroy of India. The regiment's first battalion moved here from Almora that year, and the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre is still here today. The museum is named after Naik Darwan Singh Negi of the regiment, who won the Victoria Cross in the First World War.
Why go to Lansdowne
Quiet forest town
Clean, uncrowded roads under oak and pine, perfect for long walks.
Hill views
Tip-n-Top looks out over ridge after ridge of the Garhwal hills, and on clear days to snow peaks.
Army heritage
The War Memorial, the regimental museum and old churches tell the story of the Garhwal Rifles.
Main things to see in Lansdowne
Tip-n-Top
The highest point in town, about 1.5 km from the centre, with wide views at sunrise and sunset.
Bhulla Tal
A small man-made lake run by the army, with paddle boats and a garden. A favourite with families.
War Memorial and Darwan Singh Museum
Honours the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles, with medals, uniforms and battle history.
St Mary's and St John's churches
Two old colonial churches; St John's is still in use, St Mary's is an old landmark.
Distances from Lansdowne
Before you go
- Lansdowne is an army cantonment. Follow signs, stay out of marked military areas and do not photograph them.
- The War Memorial and museum keep limited hours and are usually closed on Sundays and holidays; check locally.
- ATMs and shops are few; carry some cash.
- Nights are cool all year and cold from November to February; carry a warm layer.
- Drive up from Kotdwar in daylight, especially in the monsoon.
- No special permit is needed for Indian tourists.
Lansdowne FAQs
Is Lansdowne worth visiting?
Yes, if you want a quiet hill break with forest walks and views. It has little nightlife or shopping, so it suits people who want calm rather than crowds.
How far is Lansdowne from Delhi?
About 250 km by road via Meerut, Bijnor, Najibabad and Kotdwar, roughly 6-7 hours.
How many days are enough for Lansdowne?
Two nights is ideal: one day for the town's sights and one for a day trip to Tarkeshwar Mahadev.
Does it snow in Lansdowne?
Sometimes, in January or February, but not every year. Do not plan a trip only for snow.
Do I need a permit for Lansdowne?
No permit is needed for Indian tourists. Some army areas are closed to visitors, and the War Memorial may need permission at times.
