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Tucked away in the misty hills of Uttarakhand, Landour is a world of its own—a place where time seems to slow down, where nature and nostalgia intertwine beautifully. Unlike its bustling neighbour, Mussoorie, Landour is quieter, untouched, and brimming with old-world charm. The colonial-era bungalows, serene walking trails, and panoramic Himalayan views make it an idyllic retreat for anyone seeking peace.
For me, this trip wasn’t just about exploring a destination; it was about rediscovering stillness in a fast-moving world. The promise of fresh mountain air, cozy cafés, and long walks along quiet forest trails pulled me towards this charming hill town. And staying at 8 Fold by LaRiSa Resort, with its eco-conscious luxury, exceptional hospitality, and serene ambience, made it all the more special.
Day 1: Breathe in the Calm, Misty Magic of Landour
I had been longing for a break, an escape from the never-ending hum of city life. With my bag packed and excitement bubbling in my heart, I set off for Landour. The drive from Dehradun was mesmerising—winding roads hugged the mountains, while pine trees swayed gently in the breeze. As we climbed higher, Mussoorie’s crowded streets faded away, replaced by the quiet charm of Landour.
Our stay at 8 Fold by LaRiSa Resort was nothing short of magical. Hidden amidst tall deodars, the resort blended seamlessly with nature. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of fresh bread from their in-house bakery. The wooden cottages, adorned with warm lighting and cozy interiors, made me feel instantly at home. What made it even better was knowing that 8 Fold by LaRiSa Resort believes in sustainable living—solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and organic farming were all part of their eco-friendly approach.
Day 2: Mornings Wrapped in Gold & A Taste of Landour
Morning arrived gently, with golden sunlight peeking through my window. I wrapped my hands around a steaming cup of organic herbal tea, sourced from the resort’s own garden, and stepped onto the balcony. The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as I gazed at the rolling hills stretching endlessly before me.
After a wholesome breakfast of organic honey, fresh fruits, and homemade granola, we set off to explore Sister’s Bazaar. The charming little market was lined with colonial-era shops, each with its own story to tell. I couldn’t resist buying a jar of Landour’s famous peanut butter, some locally made cheese, and a few books from a quaint bookstore that smelled of nostalgia. A visit to St. Paul’s Church, with its vintage architecture and peaceful ambiance, felt like a step back in time.
The afternoon was reserved for a leisurely walk through the quiet lanes of Landour. Each turn revealed stunning views, moss-covered walls, and quaint cottages with history hidden in their bricks. We stopped by Char Dukan, a legendary cluster of four small eateries serving some of the best pancakes and chai in the hills. As I sat there, sipping a steaming cup of masala chai, I realized how effortless it was to lose track of time in Landour.
Day 3: Walking the Landour Loop & Finding Solitude at Lal Tibba
Landour’s most scenic route, the Landour Loop, was a must-do on my list. The road curved gently through towering forests, and with every step, the outside world felt more distant. The sound of my footsteps on the damp earth, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional chirping of birds created a melody that only the mountains could compose.
At Lal Tibba, the highest point in Landour, the view took my breath away. The snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas stood majestic and untouched, glowing under the winter sun. Using the old telescope at the Lal Tibba viewpoint, I caught glimpses of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and the Gangotri range.
Before heading back, I stopped at Rokeby Manor, a beautiful colonial-era hotel with an inviting café that served delicious wood-fired pizzas. The warm hospitality, the scent of fresh pine, and the breathtaking views made me linger a little longer.
Day 4: Coffee, Quiet Moments & A Bittersweet Goodbye
As my journey neared its end, I spent my last few hours at 8 Fold by LaRiSa Resort’s charming café. Soft music played in the background as I sipped on a rich cup of locally brewed coffee. The café’s interiors, crafted with upcycled furniture, had an earthy, rustic charm that perfectly complemented the peaceful surroundings.
I also took some time to explore the sustainability efforts of 8 Fold by LaRiSa Resort. Their organic gardens, waste management system, and water conservation initiatives are a testament to their commitment to responsible tourism. The resort also sources ingredients locally, reducing its carbon footprint while supporting the livelihoods of nearby farmers.
Before leaving, I indulged in a traditional Garhwali meal, featuring local delicacies like Aloo Ke Gutke, Mandua Roti, and Phaanu. Each bite felt like a warm hug from the mountains, a perfect farewell treat before heading back to reality.
A Journey to Remember
Packing my bags was hard. Landour had become more than just a place—it had become a feeling. The misty mornings, the scent of books and pine needles, the quiet companionship of the mountains—everything had etched itself into my heart.
This trip taught me the beauty of slow travel, of truly soaking in a place rather than just checking off sights from a list. The charming bookstores, cozy cafés, and timeless walks along the Landour Loop left an imprint on my soul.
As we drove away, the mist swallowed the winding roads behind us, but I knew one thing for sure—a part of me would always remain in Landour, waiting for my return.
