Semal House. A community Homestay In Lansdowne
Nestled amidst the shade of pine trees and the panoramic view of Garhwal Himalayas, Semal House in Lansdowne Uttarakhand takes its name on the Semal tree, residing in the lawn. This community homestay in Lansdowne is rooted in history, going back as far as 1935, when it was first constructed.
Back then, it was used as a “Sarai”- a guest house for traders, who’d come after their business dealings, seeking respite. The purpose of the house has been retained and extended beyond relaxation. The stay is not only symbolic of the proverbial phrase, “Back to Roots” but includes activities and practices, which utilize what is there in nature.
Back to nature
The very walls of the house, adorned in blue and white, echo this natural theme. Built of wood and soil, this community homestay in Lansdowne, keeps your weather woes away. Semal house has six rooms, with old- style doors, wooden boxes containing beddings, bamboo lamps, antique utensils, and wooden chairs, thereby fusing modern comforts with antiquity. You’ll also find shampoo naturally made from Bhimal tree and Walnut/Tengu Datun on the bedside table.
Delicious food
The “back to roots” theme pervades almost every aspect of this house. Food is no exception. The food is fresh and organic. It is prepared on the earthen hearth and then there’s chakki too. So be prepared to revive authentic tastes and traditional food habits, which seem to have been lost amidst the hustle and bustle of cities.
One of the main highlights is Pahari Thali, which consists of Fanu, Chensu, Thichoni, Mandove ki Roti, Bhang ki chutney, Dhavdi, and Jhangora Kheer. These dishes being rich in calcium, iron, and protein, can cure cold, cough, diabetes, digestive disorders and kidney problems. With its perfect blend of taste and medicinal value, this culinary delight will probably draw you back to this place again.
Activities at the homestay
Cow, Goat petting and feeding: Sometime around 9 AM, one can find goats grazing around the house. Then around 4 or 5 PM, right at the threshold of the courtyard, two cows, punctually come to visit the house. It has almost become a daily ritual for the house to feed these goats and cows with leftovers and the guests can take part in this ritual. For the kids, this would not only be a new experience but also something which adds substance to their textbook knowledge of cattle farming.
Barsati Jharna: An assisted trek to a waterfall.
Walk till old Tolldwar: Tolldwar is an old toll booth and the way to it requires a walk through a beautiful forested path, which is adorned with pine cones.
Pine Cone Painting: If you manage to collect pines in the aforementioned walk, make sure you paint them and take them home as souvenirs. Even if you don’t manage to have your own pine collection, you can always ask the host. Pines, paints will be provided.
Sunset Point: The hosts will provide you folding camping chairs which can be carried in the walk to the sunset point. Once you reach there, be assured to find yourself in the company of a beautiful sunset and soulful music.
Bichu Ghaas Tutorial: A 15-minute demo-session on the healing properties of nettle leaf and thereby a haven for those suffering from cervical pain and arthritis.
Things you can do at Lansdowne
The Garhwali Museum: Home to the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army, this 1987 museum exhibits antiques and documents associated with wars including WW I and II, old uniforms, portraits of soldiers, customs and traditions of the regiment.
The Cantonment Area: This area houses Durga Mandir, Kali Mandir and the most renowned Kaleshwar Temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is located near the main city and is named after Sage Kalun who meditated here. ‘Kasam Parade’ by the newly recruited officers can also be seen.
Tip n Top: This small hilltop viewpoint, being the highest place in Lansdowne presents the skyline with a sweeping view of the Shivalik range.
St. Mary’s Church: Located near the Tip n Top point, this Catholic church was constructed in 1895, by Col. A.H.B Hume of the Royal Engineers.
Bhima Pakora: This structure of two stones, placed one above the another, has its legend in The Mahabharata. The Pakora is said to be an exhibit of Bhima’s unmatched strength.
Bhoot Bangla: Isn’t the name enough?
How to reach Lansdowne?
Now that the place has been established as the perfect weekend getaway, let’s chart our way to it.
If you are coming by flight, Dehradun Airport will be the nearest. From the airport, you’ll have to take a 4-hour bus or cab journey to Lansdowne. Once you reach Lansdowne main square, take another cab to Dhura village and look for signage of ‘Dhura Village Home Stay’.
The nearest railway station is Kotdwar which is 40 km away from Lansdowne. From the station, it’s a one and a half journey and you can easily find share cabs. From the Lansdowne main square, Dhura village is barely at a distance of 3 kms.
If you are coming by car, drive straight to the Dhruva village.
Come find us! The Semal House awaits your presence.
