Landour Bakehouse: Why This Café Is a Must-Visit in Mussoorie

I’m not much of a sweet tooth, but Landour Bakehouse was a must visit place in Mussoorie since I was there. I’d heard about its legacy through a few Instagram reels, and my curiosity got the best of me. The allure of this famous bakery in Landour, nestled in the hills of Mussoorie, was irresistible. So, I made it a point to stop by and experience its charm firsthand.

Landour, a serene and picturesque hill station near Mussoorie, is often described as a place where time seems to stand still. Perched at a higher altitude, it offers a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds of Mussoorie. With its colonial-era charm, narrow winding lanes, and dense forests of deodar and oak, Landour retains a timeless appeal. The area is home to quaint cottages, historic churches, and cafés like Landour Bakehouse, which add to its old-world ambiance. It’s a place where you can take leisurely walks, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the Himalayas.

Landour Bakehouse is a delightful gem renowned for its classic art deco charm. Situated near Sisters’ Bazaar, it seamlessly blends with the tranquil environment of the area. The café’s interiors are designed to evoke a 19th-century kitchen, providing an authentic backdrop for its baking operations. The menu is inspired by The Landour Cookbook, showcasing a dedication to the region’s culinary traditions. Each dish is crafted to offer a true taste of Landour’s historical flavors, reflecting the café’s commitment to celebrating and preserving its rich culinary heritage.

Landour Bakehouse is a charming, mountain bakery nestled in the serene hills, offering a delightful selection of artisanal cakes, pastries, and sandwiches, many crafted from recipes that date back to the late 1890s. This quaint spot invites you to pause and savor the moment with its freshly baked croissants, buttery scones, and delicate crepes. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee break or a leisurely meal, the bakehouse provides the perfect setting. With every bite, you can indulge in the rich flavors while soaking in the breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, making your visit truly unforgettable.

In 1930, Landour, a quiet hill station near Mussoorie, was alive with the warmth of the community. Mrs. Lucas, the pastor’s wife at Kellogg Church, was getting ready for her weekly meeting with Mrs. Irene Parker, wife of the principal at Woodstock School. Ten years prior, they had started a reading club that became more than just a gathering for book lovers. It turned into a hub for discussing current events and sharing beloved recipes. Their collaboration led to the creation of The Landour Cookbook, filled with favorite recipes, homemaking advice, and tips for cooking at high altitudes. The book’s sales were dedicated to their reading club, reflecting the close-knit spirit of the community they had nurtured together.

I chose to walk to Landour Bakehouse from Mussoorie for several reasons. First and foremost, I have a deep love for walking, especially when it involves trekking through the mountains, where every step brings me closer to nature. The steep climb, though challenging, felt like a small price to pay for the serene experience. I also prefer walking over using a vehicle for short distances as it’s my way of contributing to the environment, reducing carbon emissions one step at a time. Additionally, I was on a budget trip to Mussoorie, and every penny counted. By opting to walk, I not only saved money but also immersed myself in the journey, making the destination even more rewarding.

Despite it being the peak of the day, with the sun blazing overhead and draining my energy, the journey was unexpectedly serene. As I navigated through the bustling streets, there were moments when the thick canopy of trees provided a welcome respite, shielding me from the relentless sun. In other stretches, the road was clogged with traffic, adding to the day’s challenges. Yet, my GPS navigation remained my guiding light, leading me steadily towards the renowned café in Landour. The anticipation of reaching this famous spot kept my spirits high, even as I maneuvered through the congestion. Each turn brought a mix of excitement and relief, as the promise of a refreshing break at the café seemed ever closer.

When I arrived at the bakery, I was met with an unexpected sight: a long line of eager patrons and a wait time that stretched far beyond my initial expectations. The bustling scene was a testament to the bakery’s popularity. At the entrance, a meticulous gateman stood with a notebook, carefully jotting down names as each new arrival approached. I joined the line and gave my name, only to be told there would be a 30-40 minute wait.

As I glanced around, I could see the café was filled to capacity, with the hum of conversations and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air. Realizing that waiting in such a crowded space might be a bit uncomfortable, I was pleasantly surprised when the staff, recognizing that I was alone, offered me a small chair tucked away in a quiet corner. This cozy nook provided a bit of respite from the bustling environment. Sitting there, I watched as the café buzzed with activity, feeling a mix of anticipation and patience. The wait, though longer than I had hoped, was softened by the prospect of enjoying what promised to be a delightful experience.

The moment I stepped into the café, I was immediately enveloped by two powerful sensations: the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods and the enchanting old-world charm of the place. The warm, tempting scent of pastries and bread seemed to transport me into a haven of sweet indulgence, while the café’s nostalgic ambiance whisked me back in time by nearly a century. I ordered their famous carrot cake, and with the very first bite, I was transported to a different realm. The rich, spiced flavor and perfect texture of the cake created an exquisite sensory experience that felt both comforting and enchanting. Each mouthful seemed to tell a story, blending nostalgia with a touch of magic.

The wooden interior, adorned with intricate decorations, was perhaps the most striking feature of the café. The rich, warm tones of the wood created an inviting atmosphere, accentuated by vintage touches that evoked a sense of timeless elegance. Old-fashioned power plugs and wiring, along with a menu that seemed to be a relic from a bygone era, were carefully preserved and integrated into the décor. Every element, from the antique furnishings to the charmingly worn details, contributed to an ambiance that not only honored the past but did so with a refined grace. It felt as though the café was a living testament to a different time, seamlessly blending nostalgia with an enduring sense of style.

One board prominently displayed in the café gently encouraged visitors to disconnect from the internet and put away their phones during their time there. It said, ‘We Do Not Have Wi-Fi….Talk To Each Other. Pretend It’s 1895’. Isn’t that a wonderful gesture? In a world where we often find ourselves absorbed in our digital devices, it’s refreshing to encounter a place that fosters a mindful, unplugged experience. By stepping away from our screens and fully immersing ourselves in the café’s serene atmosphere, we can truly appreciate the charm of such a gem and make the most of our time in this haven of old-world delight.

The menu at Landour Bakehouse features a delightful array of freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries, muffins, tarts, and assorted cookies. For a more substantial bite, try the tandoor chicken croissant, a popular choice, or the paneer tikka croissant for a vegetarian alternative. They also offer delicious crepes and toasty options. Coffee enthusiasts will be pleased with the café’s impressive coffee menu, complemented by the charming artwork that adorns the walls, enhancing the café’s old-fashioned ambiance. Tea lovers can enjoy a traditional English tea in style, or, if tea and coffee aren’t your preference, indulge in their rich and satisfying hot chocolate.

Landour Bakehouse is not just about the food; it offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The beautiful décor and freshly baked Landour specialties make it well worth a visit. Don’t forget to bring along your favorite book to complete the experience and fully enjoy the café’s inviting atmosphere. While researching for this blog, I discovered that there’s also a café in the UK with the same name, Landour Bakehouse. It was interesting to see how this name is shared across continents, each location bringing its own unique charm and culinary delights to the table.

As I entered Landour Bakehouse, I was immediately struck by the warm golden hue that bathed the counter near the entrance. Shelves were in the midst of being stocked with an array of freshly baked goodies, cakes, pies, cookies, muffins, breads, croissants, and sweet buns. Glass jars on display featured intriguing treats like ‘Garhwali cheese straws,’ ‘Stick jaw,’ and ‘Multigrain cookies.’ The menu, prominently displayed on the wall behind the counter, drew my attention, especially with the promise of delicious crepes.

Outside, a framed poster provided a captivating historical backdrop. It described how bakehouses were central to rural communities in the 1800s, serving as a hub for social interaction. In Landour, a town with a rich military history during British India, the bakehouse became a melting pot for people from all walks of life; doctors, nurses, students, servicemen, and missionaries. They not only shared stories but also exchanged recipes. This historical charm is preserved in the café, which continues to follow recipes from the Landour Cookbook and has been meticulously restored to evoke the feel of a 19th-century kitchen.