Lansdowne is a hill station set 1,700 metres above sea level surrounded by thick oak and pine forests. Discover the legacy of the celebrated Garhwal Rifles regiment or escape to the countryside for an off-the-grid camping adventure.
Things to do in Lansdowne
The Garhwali Museum traces the legacy of the Garhwal Rifles, a decorated Indian Army regiment that still trains in town. Inside you'll find fascinating exhibitions on the customs and traditions of the regiment, as well as portraits, weapons and battle uniforms.
For the best views in town, head up to Tip-n-Top viewpoint, a scenic lookout with sweeping views over the forested hills and the distant Himalayas. The viewpoint is especially beautiful at sunset when the landscape acquires a golden glow.
A remnant of the British Raj, St. Mary’s is a colonial-era Protestant church built in 1896. It houses a mini Garhwal Rifles museum showcasing photographs, newspaper clippings and an informative 30-minute video. Local Hindus worship Shiva at Kaleshwar, a centuries-old temple that was once a mecca for Indian sages.
Reconnect with nature at Camp Advait, an eco-friendly retreat surrounded by forests, mountains and streams. Get thrills with a host of adventure activities, including rock climbing, rappelling, hiking, cliff jumping and zip-lining. Overnight tent camping offers a unique chance to enjoy bonfires, stargazing and traditional Indian food.
Getting around Lansdowne
Lansdowne is easy to get around on foot, while local buses run to nearby towns and villages. You'll also find plenty of auto rickshaws. Trains depart from Kotdwar railway station, 40 kilometres from Lansdowne.