Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Landour is a charming and lesser-known hill station located just a few kilometers from Mussoorie. A former British cantonment town, Landour retains its colonial-era charm, offering visitors cobblestone pathways, serene deodar forests, and stunning views of the Himalayas by Landour Tour. Unlike its bustling neighbor Mussoorie, Landour is quieter and more offbeat, making it a perfect retreat for writers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude.
Famous for its heritage buildings, quaint cafés, and scenic walks, Landour has long been home to famous personalities, including Ruskin Bond, the legendary Indian author. Whether you’re strolling through Ivy Cottage, enjoying a cup of chai at Char Dukan, or soaking in the views from Lal Tibba, Landour offers a peaceful and nostalgic escape into the hills.
This Landour Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, adventure activities, travel routes from Delhi and Kathgodham, distances from major cities, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Landour? 🚗🚆✈️
Landour is well-connected by road, but the nearest railway stations and airports are in Dehradun and Kathgodham. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Landour.
By Road 🛣️
Landour is accessible via scenic mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of valleys and forests.
- From Dehradun (35 km) – A 1.5-hour drive via Mussoorie.
- From Delhi (290 km) – A 7-hour drive via NH 334.
- From Kathgodham (380 km) – A 9-hour drive via Rishikesh.
Regular buses and taxis operate from Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh to Mussoorie, from where you can hire a taxi to Landour.
By Train 🚆
The nearest railway stations to Landour are:
- Dehradun Railway Station (35 km) – Well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
- Kathgodham Railway Station (380 km) – A major railway station for travelers coming from Lucknow and Eastern India.
From Dehradun or Kathgodham, take a bus or taxi to Landour.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airport is:
- Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (60 km) – A 2-hour drive from Landour.
From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Dehradun, then continue to Landour.
Best Time To Visit Landour ☀️❄️
Landour enjoys different experiences in different seasons, making it a year-round destination.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Snowy & Cold (0°C – 10°C) | Snow Walks, Bonfires, Photography |
| Summer | March – June | Pleasant & Cool (15°C – 25°C) | Sightseeing, Hiking, Café Hopping |
| Monsoon | July – September | Moderate Rainfall (10°C – 20°C) | Greenery, Waterfalls, Avoid Trekking |
| Autumn | October | Crisp & Cool (10°C – 20°C) | Best for Clear Views, Outdoor Walks |
Best Time to Visit: October to June for pleasant weather, clear views, and adventure activities.
Landour Activities 🎒🏕️
Landour is a paradise for peace seekers, adventure lovers, and history buffs. Here are some top activities to do in Landour:
1. Walk the Landour Loop (Gol Chakkar)
- A 4-5 km walking circuit that takes you through pine forests, colonial-era cottages, and scenic viewpoints.
- Pass by famous spots like Ivy Cottage, Sister’s Bazaar, and Lal Tibba.
2. Visit Char Dukan & Enjoy Local Tea
- Char Dukan is a cluster of four historic shops, famous for chai, bun omelets, and pancakes.
- A great spot to relax and soak in the peaceful vibes of Landour.
3. Explore the Landour Bakehouse
- One of the most charming bakeries in the region, serving delicious cakes, croissants, and artisanal coffee.
- Step back in time with its old-world wooden interiors and British-era charm.
4. Photography & Sunrise at Lal Tibba
- The highest point in Landour, offering breathtaking sunrise views of Himalayan peaks.
- Perfect for photography and meditation.
5. Visit St. Paul’s Church
- A colonial-era church built in 1839, surrounded by tall deodar trees.
- Known for its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
6. Explore the Ruskin Bond Trail
- Visit Cambridge Book Depot in Mussoorie, where Ruskin Bond occasionally meets fans.
- Walk through the places that inspired his stories.
7. Hike to Jabarkhet Nature Reserve
- A private nature reserve with marked hiking trails through dense forests.
- Great for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Landour Hotels & Resorts 🏨🏕️
Landour Tour offers heritage cottages, boutique hotels, and eco-lodges, ensuring a charming and peaceful stay.
Luxury & Boutique Stays 🌿
- Rokeby Manor – A heritage hotel with a rustic ambiance and mountain views.
- The Tattva Resort – A boutique stay with cozy wooden cottages.
- Doma’s Inn – A Tibetan-themed guesthouse with artistic décor and delicious food.
Budget Homestays & Guesthouses 🏡
- La Villa Bethany – A charming homestay with a colonial touch.
- Ivy Cottage Homestay – A budget-friendly stay with traditional vibes.
- GMVN Tourist Rest House – Government-run, affordable accommodation.
For an authentic experience, opt for a heritage hotel or a homestay.
Best Places To Visit In Landour 🌄🏔️
1. Lal Tibba Viewpoint
The highest point in Landour, perfect for panoramic views of the Himalayas.
2. Char Dukan
A historic row of four small cafés, serving the best chai and Maggi in town.
3. St. Paul’s Church
A beautiful British-era church, surrounded by tall pine trees.
4. Kellogg Memorial Church
A Gothic-style church built in 1903, now used as a language school.
5. Sisters Bazaar
A small market known for local jams, cheeses, and handcrafted goods.
Landour Tour from Delhi 🚗
Landour is 7 hours from Delhi, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
- Distance: 290 km
- Travel Time: 7 hours
- Route: Delhi → Dehradun → Mussoorie → Landour
Landour Tour from Kathgodham 🚗
Landour is 9 hours from Kathgodham, making it a great long weekend trip.
- Distance: 380 km
- Travel Time: 9 hours
- Route: Kathgodham → Rishikesh → Mussoorie → Landour
Landour Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 290 km | 7 hrs |
| Dehradun | 35 km | 1.5 hrs |
| Rishikesh | 80 km | 3 hrs |
| Kathgodham | 380 km | 9 hrs |
Landour Local Cuisines 🍛☕
Must-Try Dishes 🍽️
- Bal Mithai – A local chocolate fudge.
- Bun Omelet – A Landour classic from Char Dukan.
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spiced potatoes, a Garhwali specialty.
Final Thoughts 🌿🏕️
Landour is a peaceful retreat offering colonial charm, breathtaking landscapes, and a slow-paced lifestyle. Whether you want to explore old-world cafés, trek through Himalayan forests, or simply relax with a book, Landour is a perfect offbeat destination.
So pack your bags and escape to the quiet charm of Landour!
