In the first week of March, we packed our bags, bundled up our two little ones, and set off for Landour—a quiet, colonial-era cantonment town tucked away in the hills of Uttarakhand. Unlike the bustling hill stations overflowing with tourists, Landour has managed to hold on to its timeless charm, thanks to an old British-era rule that restricts new construction. With just four shops and forty homes, this hamlet feels like a page from a forgotten storybook—one that we were eager to step into.

For someone like me, who finds solace in stories and inspiration in the mountains, Landour is a writer’s paradise. This little town has been home to literary legends like Ruskin Bond, whose works often reflect the quiet charm of the hills, the whispers of deodar trees, and the warmth of old mountain homes. As a storyteller and a slow traveler, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to retreat, reflect, and experience life at a different pace—this time, with my family.

Where We Stayed – A Cozy, Sustainable Homestay

Our home for the next few days was La Villa Bethany, a luxury boutique homestay run by Sunila and her husband, both passionate about hospitality and sustainability. They welcomed us into their logwood family cabin, a space that felt both cozy and consciously designed. The cabin had everything we needed—room heaters, bed warmers, a small kitchen, and an old-world charm that immediately made us feel at home.

What we loved most was the sustainability aspect—solar-powered lights and heaters, locally sourced food, and a staff of warm-hearted people from nearby villages. It was more than just a place to stay; it was an experience of responsible tourism.

But traveling with little ones always comes with surprises. Our younger son, Ali, caught a slight cold due to the chilly mountain air. So, our first day was spent curled up in the cabin, watching the mist roll over the valley, sipping hot tea, and simply unwinding—a reminder that slow travel isn’t about ticking destinations off a list, but about being present in the moment.

A Walk Through Landour’s Old-World Charm

The next day, the sun came out, and we decided to explore. Walking through Landour felt like stepping into a dream. The deodar-lined paths were empty, the air crisp, and the distant valley seemed to stretch endlessly below us.

For Almeer, our older one, this was his first real connection with the mountains. He touched the stones, tried to climb slopes, and kept asking about the trees, the green algae on rocks, and the little birds we spotted along the way. It was beautiful to see him experiencing nature firsthand, not through books or screens, but by simply being there. As parents, we often wonder whether young kids will remember their travels, but what truly matters is how these experiences shape their curiosity and connection with the world.

Our slow walk led us to the famous Landour Bakehouse, a quaint bakery that serves some of the finest Irish recipes passed down through generations. Sitting inside the warm wooden interiors, we sipped on coffee while savoring flaky croissants and homemade cookies. It was one of those simple moments where time felt like it had slowed down—exactly what we had come here for

Afternoon at Char Dukan: A Taste of Simplicity

Later in the afternoon, we made our way to Char Dukan, a small market area that, true to its name, once had just four shops. Though a couple more have been added over time, the place still retains its simple charm. Here, travelers pause for chai, snacks, and a quiet moment with the hills.

We found a small park opposite the shops and ordered the best honey ginger lemon tea of our lives. The sun was warm, and the mountain breeze carried a freshness that made everything feel more alive.

For Almeer, the open space covered with pebbles became his playground. He quickly made friends with other kids who were also playing there, and for the next hour, we watched them chase each other around, laughing and picking up little stones as treasures. It was a reminder that children don’t need grand experiences to be happy—they just need space, nature, and a little freedom.

Ali, just a few months old, was too little to witness all this, but we knew we would return—this time, with both our kids old enough to enjoy and create memories together.

Why Landour is the Perfect Slow Travel Destination for Families

Landour is not a place for tourists rushing through itineraries. It’s a place for those who want to pause, breathe, and immerse themselves in the beauty of slow living. Here’s why we think every family should experience Landour at least once:

1. Safe & Walkable – With hardly any traffic, kids can run freely, and families can explore without worrying about honking cars or crowded streets.


2. Quiet & Peaceful – Unlike Mussoorie, which is always buzzing with tourists, Landour is untouched by commercialization and perfect for a mindful retreat.


3. Perfect for Nature Lovers – Whether it’s walks through deodar forests, spotting birds, or simply gazing at the mountains, kids and adults alike can reconnect with nature.


4. A Literary & Creative Haven – If you love books, art, and stories, this is where inspiration finds you.


5. Sustainable Stays & Local Culture – From eco-friendly homestays to local bakeries, traveling here supports the community and a more responsible way of tourism.



For parents wondering whether it’s worth traveling with young kids—the answer is always yes. Yes, there will be challenges. Yes, you’ll have to pack extra snacks, extra clothes, and be ready for sudden tantrums. But the joy of watching your child explore the world, make new discoveries, and simply be free in nature makes it all worth it.

Final Thoughts – Why We’ll Return to Landour

As we packed our bags to leave, I looked around one last time at this quiet, dreamy hill town. The mist rolled in over the valley, the scent of pine trees filled the air, and a deep sense of gratitude washed over me. We had come looking for a slow travel experience, and Landour had given us more than that—it had given us memories, inspiration, and a longing to return.

We left Landour knowing that we would be back. Next time, Ali will be running alongside Almeer, exploring the mountain trails together. Next time, they will be old enough to listen to Ruskin Bond’s stories and understand why Landour is so special. And next time, we’ll pause once again—because some places are meant to be felt, not just seen.

Until then, we’ll carry a piece of Landour in our hearts.

If you’re looking for a place to experience slow, conscious travel with your kids, we cannot recommend Landour enough. Tag someone who needs a mountain escape! 🌿✨