Landour, a picturesque cantonment town situated in the hills of Uttarakhand, offers a serene escape from the bustling life of Delhi. Renowned for its peace environment, rich history, and stunning views, Landour is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. In this comprehensive guide, we will detail the various ways to reach Landour from Delhi, ensuring you have all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
About Landour
Landour, located near Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, is a quaint hill station that exudes old-world charm. This small town is famed for its colonial architecture, green landscapes, and a serene atmosphere. It’s an ideal getaway for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best Time to Visit Landour
The best time to visit Landour is from April to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July and August) brings heavy rainfall, which might hinder travel plans. Winter (December to February) can be chilly with occasional snowfall, making it a delightful experience for those who enjoy cold weather.
Reaching Landour from Delhi by Road
Driving to Landour
Driving to Landour from Delhi is a popular option for many travelers. The distance between Delhi and Landour is approximately 290 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Here’s a step-by-step guide for those planning to drive:
- Route: The most common route is via NH334 and NH7. From Delhi, take the NH334 towards Meerut. Continue on this highway until you reach Muzaffarnagar. From there, follow NH7 through Roorkee and Dehradun to reach Landour.
- Road Conditions: The roads are generally well-maintained, but it is advisable to check for any traffic updates or road closures before starting your journey.
- Stopovers: Popular stopover points include Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Dehradun, where you can take breaks and refuel.
Bus Services to Landour
For those who prefer public transportation, several bus services operate between Delhi and Mussoorie, the closest major town to Landour. From Mussoorie, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Landour.
- Types of Buses: Various types of buses, including Volvo, deluxe, and state-run buses, ply between Delhi and Mussoorie. The journey typically takes around 7-8 hours.
- Booking Tickets: Tickets can be booked online through portals like RedBus, MakeMyTrip, and the official websites of state transport services.
- Bus Stops: Major boarding points in Delhi include ISBT Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar ISBT. In Mussoorie, buses usually drop passengers at the Library Bus Stand or Picture Palace Bus Stand.
Reaching Landour from Delhi by Train
Traveling by train is another convenient option. Although Landour does not have its own railway station, the nearest railway station is in Dehradun, which is well-connected to Delhi.
- Trains to Dehradun: Several trains operate between Delhi and Dehradun, including the Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, and Mussoorie Express. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours.
- From Dehradun to Landour: Once you reach Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Landour. The distance between Dehradun and Landour is about 35 kilometers, and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Recommended Trains
- Shatabdi Express: A high-speed train that departs from New Delhi Railway Station and reaches Dehradun in about 5 hours. It is known for its punctuality and comfort.
- Mussoorie Express: An overnight train that provides a convenient option for those who prefer to travel at night and reach Dehradun early in the morning.
Reaching Landour from Delhi by Air
For those who prefer to travel by air, the nearest airport to Landour is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
- Flights to Dehradun: Several airlines operate daily flights between Delhi and Dehradun. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
- From Dehradun Airport to Landour: From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Landour. The distance from Jolly Grant Airport to Landour is about 60 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2-2.5 hours.
Airlines Operating Flights
- IndiGo
- Air India
- SpiceJet
- Vistara
Exploring Landour
Once you reach Landour, there are several attractions and activities to enjoy:
- Sister’s Bazaar: A quaint market area known for its local shops and cafes. Don’t miss out on trying the famous peanut butter from Anil’s Store.
- Lal Tibba: The highest point in Landour, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
- St. Paul’s Church: A beautiful colonial-era church that adds to the town’s charm.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Landour is surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
Accommodation in Landour
Landour offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular choices include:
- Rokeby Manor: A charming heritage hotel offering a blend of colonial architecture and modern amenities.
- La Villa Bethany: A boutique homestay known for its warm hospitality and stunning views.
- Doma’s Inn: A Tibetan-themed guesthouse with cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
Detailed Itinerary for Delhi to Landour Trip
By Road (Direct Drive)
- Start: Delhi
- Route: NH334 (Delhi – Meerut – Roorkee – Dehradun – Mussoorie – Landour)
- Estimated Time: 7-8 hours
By Bus
- Start: Delhi ISBT (Kashmere Gate)
- Destination: Mussoorie
- Travel Time: 8-9 hours by bus
- Final Leg: Mussoorie to Landour (4 kilometers by taxi or local bus)
By Train
- Start: New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) or Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM)
- Destination: Dehradun Railway Station (DDN)
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours by train
- Final Leg: Dehradun to Landour (60 kilometers by taxi or local bus, approximately 2 hours)
By Air
- Start: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
- Destination: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun
- Travel Time: 1 hour by flight
- Final Leg: Dehradun to Landour (60 kilometers by taxi, approximately 2 hours)
Travel Tips
- Advance Booking: It is advisable to book your transportation and accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Packing Essentials: Carry warm clothing, as the weather can be chilly, especially during mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the town.
- Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
This guide covers the most efficient and convenient ways to travel from Delhi to Landour, catering to different preferences and budgets.