Discovering the Underrated Beauty of Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

 Lansdowne, Uttarakhand, is often overlooked in favor of more popular hill stations, but for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and a calm environment, it's a hidden gem. I had the pleasure of visiting this serene hill station for two nights and three days in July, and it was an experience I won’t soon forget. The weather was cloudy, with occasional rain showers, adding to the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of the place.

Day 1: Journey from Noida to Lansdowne

I started my journey from Noida early on a Saturday morning, driving through scenic roads as the city’s hustle gradually gave way to the peaceful mountains. The drive itself was a refreshing break, with lush greenery and hills emerging as we approached Lansdowne. I reached my riverside resort just in time for check-in, excited for the adventure ahead.

The resort, nestled by a serene river, was the perfect escape from the chaos of city life. The highlight of the day was sitting on the stones in the middle of the river, watching fish swimming in the crystal-clear water beneath me. It was such a peaceful and meditative experience. The sound of the flowing water and the sight of nature all around made the day feel timeless. I also took tons of pictures and videos to capture the magic of the moment.

In the evening, the resort offered some fun activities, including a game of badminton. The fresh mountain air and great food at the resort made the day feel complete, without a hint of tiredness.

Day 2: Morning by the River and Exploring Lansdowne

The next morning, I was eager to return to the river, where I enjoyed a refreshing bath. There’s something magical about immersing yourself in natural waters, and the experience was nothing short of rejuvenating.

After enjoying the river for a bit longer, we left the resort by 11 a.m. and headed toward our next stay, a cozy resort close to Bhulla Taal, a charming man-made lake in Lansdowne. After checking in, we headed straight to the lake for a serene boat ride. The calm waters of Bhulla Taal, surrounded by tall trees, provided a picturesque setting, perfect for unwinding.

From there, we visited Tip and Top Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the Garhwal hills. The cloudy weather added a mystical touch to the already stunning landscape. St. Mary’s Church was our next stop, a quaint and peaceful place with its old-world charm.

By 7:30 in the evening, we were back at the resort. Watching the beautiful landscape from the resort as the day faded into night was the perfect way to wind down. A delicious meal and the cool mountain breeze made for an unforgettable evening.

Day 3: Departure and Scenic Journey Back

On the final day, we reluctantly began our journey back home. However, Lansdowne wasn’t done mesmerizing us just yet. The drive back was accompanied by a light rain, which made the hills and valleys even more lush and enchanting.

On our way back, we stopped at the famous Sidhbali Hanuman Temple in Kotdwar. The temple is well-known in the area and draws devotees from across the region. The serene atmosphere of the temple, combined with the scenic beauty of its surroundings, was a fitting end to our trip.

Final Thoughts

Lansdowne may be underrated, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I’ve visited. From the calm riverside experiences to the scenic viewpoints and historical landmarks, the town offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and spirituality. The occasional rain showers in July only enhanced the beauty of the landscape, making it a destination I’d highly recommend to anyone looking for a quiet escape.