This weekend was my fairy tale weekend – it was like I was Snow White or Cinderella or one of those princesses who lived in a cute little wooden manor amidst the green and cool hills with not a care in the world. Landour, the quaint little hill station near Mussoorie, 2 hours from Dehra Dun, was an apt setting for this fairy tale place. And completing this experience – was my stay at Rokeby Manor.
Rokeby Manor is a heritage home that is now converted into a luxury hotel. It is quite unlike a regular resort or a hotel – very unique in a lot of ways. Whatever they have done to it, they sure knew how to turn on their Old world Charm on Princess Ami and allowed her to experience a fairy tale life. Here are those 5 ways in which Rokeby Manor changed your regular Thrilling Traveler to Princess Ami –
The Heritage Home of Rokeby Manor
For those of you who are not familiar with Landour, this little hill station was largely established by the British in India. As was the practice in those days, they named this little place after a Welsh village – Llanddowror. In 1840, one of the British officers – Captain G.N. Cauthy, built the house – Rokeby Manor (a name from Sir Walter Scott‘s poem). Rokeby Manor changed many owners after that but what remained was its original stone and wooden building – something that you can still see today.
My first transformation into the Princess happened as I entered the gates of the Manor and laid my eyes on the charming stone arched gateway. A strong wooden door leads you into the main reception and the lobby area – complete with its wood panels and a cute little fire-place. The entire building transports you immediately into those fairy tale settings and that was the beginning of my fairy tale.
The heritage part is not just the buildings, but also, the cute little things from the past that they have still kept in the hotel as decor. Like this safe – which every guest attempts to open but have never managed to. Catch this one in the reception.
Property spread along Landour Cantonment
Rokeby Manor is not just set in the original home but is widespread to include several other homes in Landour. Just like an estate spread over an area, it is not all contained within one gate. You literally need to walk or ride to the other buildings. Rokeby Manor offers you not just regular rooms and suites but also, private luxury residences. These are set at some amazing locations that allow you a spectacular view of the Himalayas.
Rokeby Manor also, has its own bar and restaurant set a little walk away – with an indoor and outdoor seating. A little distance from it is a cute little Spa.
The way the entire property is set, you literally feel like the King of the Land, with a castle in the center and a kingdom spread across these points. This Princess had a fabulous time touring her kingdom and visiting the various subjects within.
Comfortable rooms
While the Old world charm is retained, Rokeby Manor has been refurbished to provide its guests with the best of facilities. Contained within the warm heated room are the modern facilities of hot showers, comfortable seating, TV, Coffee making facilities etc.
The residences are either 2BHK or 3 BHK, complete with wooden staircases and French windows to enjoy the beautiful views outside. The residences have their own butler to take care of the kitchen. Small sit outs, sun deck lounges or jacuzzi are available within their front porch, allowing the guests to relax while taking in those gorgeous hillscapes.
During my stay, I was put up in a room that had a little sit-out overlooking Mussoorie and Landor Towns. Later during the stay, I was upgraded to the Rhododendron suite, which had a fire-place of its own. How could Princess Ami resist a cup of tea by the fire? 🙂
Stunning views from Rokeby Manor
No matter which room or residence that you are staying in, the beauty of Landour is well experienced at Rokeby Manor. The colorful floral delights around you add to the charm of the views that you catch here. I had the most amazing time catching the sunsets from my own porch. Why – I even caught the famed Winter Line of Mussoorie!
Helpful and Attentive Staff
Be it the Cafe or the Rooms or the Spa – the staff at Rokeby Manor know how to pamper you. They charm you with their attentiveness and are always ready with a smile to make you feel like a royalty.
Food – perfect for a Princess
With over 4 restaurants to pick from, a Princess was spoilt for choice. Breakfast at Emily’s was perfect with its large spread of English and Indian dishes. The dinner menu offered cuisines from across the world – Middle Eastern to Thai and Burmese – each dish cooked to perfection. The Clock Tower restaurant in the old town of Landour was a delight for its Pizzas and Sizzlers. In short, the royalty was pleased.
Pampering Services at Rokeby Manor
Every royalty needs to be waited hand to feet! 🙂
At Rokeby Manor, I was pampered at the Spa. Well equipped for any service – from head massages to manicures and pedicures and couple massages, the Spa was a perfect way to soothen your senses. If it is not a Spa that interests you, you can choose to try out the sun decks at the hotel, or sit on a swing to enjoy the sunset or even opt for an open air Jacuzzi experience. Every royalty has a choice and Rokeby Manor seems to offer them all.
Activities at Rokeby Manor
Here is where you can take a pick from the multitude of activities that Rokeby Manor has to offer. From Shopping to sightseeing, Rokeby Manor has some packages ready for you. All you have to do is book in advance and Rokeby Manor will get you set for it. A perfect way to discover and experience the best of Landour and Mussoorie. My account of the same, coming up shortly.
My overall impression of Rokeby Manor
Getting back to me being a Thrilling Traveler, I must say that I totally loved my fairy tale experience at Rokeby Manor. Here is how I would rate the place
The place does seem a little unreal but I cannot help rate it high. After all, I did feel like a princess! I definitely would recommend this as the place to stay in Landour. What would you rate such a place? Let me know.
Getting here:
- Dehra Dun is the closest airport to Landour. There are regular flights from Delhi to Dehra Dun. You can even reach Dehra Dun by railway or road.
- From Dehra Dun, Landour is a 2 hour drive. There are plenty of cabs available at the Railway station or Airport to take you to Landour. They charge around INR 2500 to Landour and INR 3000 to Rokeby Manor
- Alternatively, you can request for a transfer or pick-up from Rokeby Manor itself when booking a room.
Travel Tips:
- Here is the official website of Rokeby Manor. You can book through this site or any of the well-known travel sites.
- The prices per room vary from INR 5000 to 20,000 depending on the room that is selected. The Residences are at INR 50,000.
- This property has limited rooms – around 12 – 15 only. Hence, ensure your booking is done and confirmed well in advance.
- The activities at Rokeby are generally charged extra, unless you are a part of a package
- To go from one property to another of Rokeby Manor, you can either walk or request for a complimentary drop at the reception.
- Landour is quite cool through the year. The best time to visit is from April to June when the rhododendrons and other flowers are in full bloom. Avoid Monsoons as it rains quite heavily here. December and January do see extreme winter with snowfall.
- Flat shoes and warm woolen clothes are recommended when visiting Landour.
P.S: Though I was invited by Rokeby Manor for a stay in Landour, the views and opinions expressed here are completely based on my own experience and are solely my own.
Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.
I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.
WOW! Looks like Princess Ami was totally spoiled at Rokeby Manor 😉 ! The manor and the view is truly enchanting and the capture of Winter Line is simply amazing!
Thank you. This royal highness was pleased! 😀
The places looks very charming but I think the tariff is a bit on the higher side!
Well, that is why I was a princess there. A luxury stay alright.
Hehe… 🙂
Lovely post Ami. Looks like a cosy place – which is what I’ve always thought about it when I’m in Landour. Must make a point to stay there.
Definitely Kalpana. It is a gorgeous place and worth a stay at least once.
Lovely old world charm indeed! Great pics, Amy 🙂
Thank you.
Such a charming place to stay.
Thank you
This place looks really very beautiful but I know this place as famous Indian English writer Ruskin Bond lives there .
Thank you. I did see Ruskin Bond’s home from outside. He does stay in Landour.
Amazing Place to be in, the Rooms have Lovely View to the Company and the Sunset popping in the Backdrop was like an Icing on the Cake 🙂 Perfect Place to get lost !
Indeed…and the greenery, the treks, the quiet atmosphere…..oooh!
What a beautiful place!!
Thanks
I so want to pack my bags and head there. It is like a fairytale. Love your pictures too 🙂
Thanks Saru. Am sure you will love it.
What a warm ambiance! It looks wonderful indeed. The tariff though, I think, is quite high…
Thanks Maniparna. I guess that is where we are treated royally 😀
This place is completely adorable. So perfect for a short getaway with your school friends.
True. A great getaway with family and partners too 😀
Seems like a nice place
It sure was
It’s like Cinderella of the modern time! Looks awesome and could easily be a great relaxing weekend!
It was lovely. I wish I could have taken hubby and kid too.
Quite a beautiful place is is with a cozy ambiance.. Loved it! 🙂
Thanks Maitreni. It was a lovely place.
Every girl deserves to feel like a princess! Good for you and what a cute place!
Thanks …glad I could do so here.
A beautiful place it is.
Thanks
Seems idyllic! I guess the next time they invite, I must hurriedly accept!
Quite and a lovely place too. Don’t miss it.
Talk about some of the most stunning bedroom views one could ever ask for!
I’m glad you seemed to very much enjoy your stay
You betcha. It was a lovely luxurious stay.
What a lovely and picturesque place. The views are breathtaking and the place has an old world charm. I have not been to Landour, only Mussoorie. Hope to check this out when I get these parts next.
Thanks Vyjay. Definitely aim going to Landour the next time. It is gorgeous.
Take me to Landour! It really is a fairy tale place. You keep sharing all of these wonderful articles on India that it has jumped to the top of my travel list!
So cool. I hope you get to India soon. When are you booking? 🙂
As it is mussoorie is such a dreamlike place and after reading your experience looks like you got some princess-ly time at Rokeby Manor 😀 Such a cute place!
Thanks. It was absolutely ROYAL 🙂
Ami, You titled it aptly. Rokeby Manor is purely a fairy tale. I should make a visit soon to experience a british style holiday.
Totally and it is apt for a honeymoon 😀
Wow! My in-lasw stay very close to Dehradun. Next time when I visit India, I will definitely make a visit here. Looks like a beautiful place to relac away from the hustle bustle of the city.
Thanks Sona. You should definitely make it to the place. Just around 2 hrs from Dun.
This place looks so comfy, it really seems to had a great time there, hope I could enjoy a stay there one day too!
Thanks Miriam. I hope so too…that you get here soon.
I’m not usually into lux travel, but the views from the hotel, in the first photo, would be worth something by themselves. Some photos of the food would be great!
Thanks Tom. once in a while, the luxury does feel good.
That view is stunning!! Awesome post, made me want to go there!
Thank you Katrina.
This kind of vacation makes me feel like I am a princess waiting for my prince on top of my Manor, lol. And seems like I could dream that own the entire land!
#childdream
You don’t just have to dream that. You can experience it here.
I really like the feel of this resort (can i call it like this?). I can see elements of the British architecture but also of the Indian architecture it is really pretty! And those views from the bed are to die for!
Thanks Joanna. A little bit of British in India, and it does make the whole stay unique.
Very nice manor, I loved the traditional decoration inside, and the views are just incredible! I’d love to wake up to those wonderful panorama of the mountains 🙂 thanks for sharing this with us!
Thanks Alberto. That is what I loved too…waking up to the mountains.
Wow this is quite a striking accommodation. I can’t believe I’ve never heard of this city, the views are surreal!
Thank you Shane. It was a lovely discovery that I made too.
I can only imagine how you must have felt while staying there because I was already sold simply by the sight of the reception area. The stone and fireplace look so welcoming and inviting!
I know what you mean. I was floored by the same too.
The Rookby Manor looks absolutely fascinating and that mountain view is breathtaking. It looks like a perfect place for a secluded romantic getaway!
Indeed…perfect for some quiet time together.
What a glorious looking place to stay! The rooms have such spectacular views. I could totally see myself enjoying a weekend here. I loved the stockings at the fireplace.
Thanks Janine. They had already decorated for Xmas. It was quite cute.
This place looks so quirky with such stunning views! Thank you for this great review and history lesson.
Thank you
Wow, how incredible is this place?! Totally agree that it looks like a princess castle. This would probably be near the top of my list of places to stay, the views from the bedrooms are crazy!! Idk if I would leave the property, haha.
Thanks Chantae. The view from the Rokeby residence was indeed stunning. Loved the place
Seems like an exotic place to stay. One thing I like about what Britishers left behind is their styles of mansions! Very impressive. The stay indeed looks fairy tale like!
It was a gorgeous place Indrani. You should definitely visit it.
love the way you tell about this place. It’s amazing information the places with wonderful pics. I’ve never gone there before. Noted it!
Thank you Sridhar. That is so encouraging.
Dint even know of this tiny piece of paradise existed so close to popular Dehradun! The view across the balcony of your stay is so beautiful, i would just be staring out for hours!
You bet, I loved sitting out there too. And they have a little swing in the porch, that makes it even more enjoyable.
The first picture of the Landour is mind boggling. It must have been an remarkable experience staying in a heritage house amidst the age old collection of items and beautiful nature.
It was a lovely experience indeed. Totally loved my time here.
A dreamy experience indeed. For me, it’s the well-behaved staff mainly,that helps me make my stay a great one. You surely did have everything around in the Manor:)
You bet…that was my little kingdom for a few days.
Ah, northern India! After staying briefly in Darjeeling, northern India keeps on beckoning me! I wanted to go back. Uttarakhand, especially Rokeby Manor, should be in my list! Thank you!
Thanks Jona. I bet you will love it.
Rokeby Manor is definitely right out of a fairytale. I can only imagine how wonderful it was to sit by a fireplace, in your room, and enjoy that breathtaking scenery. You photos are beautiful.
Thank you. The fireplace was an absolute bliss. 🙂
wow I’m envious! I’d love to be pampered and feel cosy and comfy in this beautiful place! I’d have to book my escape to Rokeby Manor soon! Glad to hear of this place from your post, thank you so much for sharing!
Thanks Mar. It sure was a lovely royal experience.
That looks like such a cute and cosy hotel! Those views are absolutely incredible! You must have had such a good time
I did …it was an amazing place.
Wow really? This is india? I am so shocked how beautiful it is and the view at the mountains just WOW!
Thuymi….India has a lot of surprises for you. You got to come here.
This is in India, wow that is amazing. I would love to be pampered here too
Thanks Karla. One of the many lovely places in India
Reminds me of a few of my stays in the past – the fireplace at the Grand Canyon hotel and of a Boutique hotel in Sydney that we absolutely loved!
I can see the Princess enjoyed thoroughly. Btw, I remember reading about Landour few months back on another site… it’s an offbeat gem!
Totally enjoyed it. Loved Landour and Rokeby ….I hope you plan a visit here when in India. Am sure you will enjoy it too.