Lansdowne, a charming hill station in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a hidden gem that offers tranquility, natural beauty, and a rich history. Located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas, Lansdowne is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here are some of the must-visit places in Lansdowne that showcase the town's unique charm and allure.
Tip-in-Top Point: Start your Lansdowne exploration with a visit to Tip-in-Top, a popular viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The serene atmosphere and cool breeze make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Bhulla Lake: For a tranquil escape, head to Bhulla Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by lush greenery and pine forests. The lake is not only a scenic spot but also offers boating facilities, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the serenity of nature.
St. Mary's Church: Lansdowne has a rich colonial history, and St. Mary's Church is a testament to that. Built during the British era, the church is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance. It is a serene place for prayer and reflection.
Garhwali Mess: To delve into the military history of Lansdowne, visit the Garhwali Mess. It houses a museum that displays a remarkable collection of historical artifacts, weapons, and photographs, providing insights into the glorious military heritage of the region.
Darwan Singh Museum: Another gem for history enthusiasts is the Darwan Singh Museum, dedicated to the Victoria Cross recipient Darwan Singh Negi. The museum showcases memorabilia, photographs, and belongings of the brave soldier, offering a glimpse into the valiant history of the Garhwal Rifles.
Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: For those seeking a spiritual experience, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Surrounded by deodar trees, the temple exudes a mystical charm, and the trek to reach it adds an adventurous touch to the spiritual journey.
Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple: Another significant temple in Lansdowne is the Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple. Situated amidst dense oak and blue pine forests, the temple offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it a perfect place for both religious worship and nature lovers.
Hawaghar: Embark on a short trek to Hawaghar, a tranquil spot surrounded by oak and pine forests. The trek itself is a delightful experience, and reaching the top rewards you with stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Bhim Pakora: A unique geological wonder, Bhim Pakora is a set of two huge stones balanced one above the other. The locals believe that even the mighty Bhim, from the Indian epic Mahabharata, placed these stones in such a way that they never topple. It's a fascinating spot and a great place for a small picnic.
Kanvashram: For those interested in mythology and spirituality, Kanvashram is a significant pilgrimage site associated with the sage Kanva. Located on the banks of the Malini River, the ashram is surrounded by lush greenery and is believed to be the spot where Shakuntala, the legendary character from the Mahabharata, gave birth to her son.
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a state located in the northern part of India. It was formed on 9 November 2000 as the 27th state of India. The state is known for its scenic beauty and is often referred to as the "Land of the Gods" due to the presence of numerous Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers. The state has a total area of 53,483 square kilometers and is bordered by Tibet in the north, Nepal in the east, and the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the south and Himachal Pradesh to the west. Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand.
Lansdowne
If you are looking for a place where you can spend a moment of peace while spending a summer vacation, you can stay for some time but away from the noise of the cities. Then there is hardly a better place for you than Lansdowne in Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Lansdowne is 279 kilometers from Delhi, and is a military area.