Landour Unfolded: A Road Trip to the Heart of Tranquility
It was the 14th of August, 2024, a time in what had been a not-so-great year for me personally. Yet, as we set out on our road trip, I felt a spark of excitement start to flicker. This wasn’t just any journey – it was a mission to find the perfect wedding destination for my elder brother. Our trio included my brother, the ever-reliable anchor of our group; his friend, who is practically a brother to me with his easygoing nature and knack for lightening the mood; and me, eager for a change that promised to breathe life into a year that had been anything but memorable. The trip had already taken us through the spiritual calm of Rishikesh, the lush surroundings of Dehradun, and now, as we headed toward the charming hills of Mussoorie, we were ready to explore Landour, a place we’d heard so much about. Little did we know, Landour would surprise us with its peaceful beauty and colonial charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
We checked out of Herne Lodge, a homely and comfortable place in Mussoorie. The owner had been exceptionally kind, sharing tips on nearby spots to explore. But we already had a different plan in mind: a day trip to Landour, a place I’d only just heard about from my elder brother, who painted it as nothing short of magical.
We set off, driving through the lively Mall Road of Mussoorie, the air filled with chatter and the aroma of street food. Soon, the road started to curve and quiet down as we made our way to Landour. Along the route, we passed Char Dukan, an area known for its old shops that have stood the test of time since the colonial era. I watched this charming spot from the car window, noticing its laid-back vibe and the small groups of people enjoying snacks and drinks.
“It is always the same with mountains. Once you have lived with them for any length of time, you belong to them. There is no escape.”
Ruskin Bond
The moment we entered Landour, it was as if time had slowed down. The weather was perfect, a gentle breeze that carried the crisp scent of pine, and the place felt calming and peaceful. We decided to park and explore on foot, which took a bit of searching given the narrow roads, but we eventually found the perfect spot.
Our walk led us to Kellogg’s Church, a stunning piece of Gothic architecture that seemed hidden behind tall, imposing trees. The church had an old-world charm that was hard to ignore, with its beautiful stained-glass windows casting colorful light inside. The history of the place was fascinating, named after Rev. Dr. Samuel H. Kellogg, who taught Hindi to the British back in the day. The stillness around the church was only broken by the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of birds. It was a scene right out of a storybook, serene and surreal.
Walking through Landour felt like stepping into another era. The colonial-style homes with walls covered with leaves and well-kept gardens added to the nostalgic feel. It’s no wonder that this place was the birthplace of legendary author Ruskin Bond, whose stories bring these hills to life. Every corner seemed to whisper tales from the past, and I couldn’t help but imagine Bond himself taking inspiration from this very setting.
After a long, satisfying walk, it was time to visit the famed Landour Bakehouse. The hype around it was real, and we had to see if it lived up to it. We ordered butter garlic croissants, my usual no-sugar cappuccino, and a few more treats from their menu. The first bite of the croissant was everything I hoped for – light, buttery, and packed with flavor. The cheesecake was just as divine, each mouthful rich and perfectly balanced. It was easy to see why people spoke so highly of this place.
As the sun started to set, painting the sky in warm hues of orange and pink, it was time to move on to our next stop, Haridwar. Though my heart wanted to stay and soak in more of Landour’s magic, we had to leave. But as we walked back to the car, I promised myself I’d come back, take more time to explore, and discover more of what makes Landour so special. One place I’d love to stay at next time is Rokeby Manor. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but I’m determined to stay there for at least one night during my next visit. I’m sure the experience will be just as magical as the town itself.
Through My Lens: A Visual Journey of Landour
As the camera clicked, I captured the essence of Landour in every frame – from its colonial charm to its breathtaking natural beauty. These photos are a glimpse into my exploration of this magical town, where every corner tells a story and every view feels timeless. Enjoy the journey through my eyes.
