Garhwali Mess is one of the oldest buildings in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand, India, established by the British in 1888. It functions as a mess for the officers of the Garhwal Rifles, a revered Indian Army regiment. The building is considered a heritage site and reflects the rich history and tradition associated with the Garhwal Rifles and the colonial era.
Yes, tourists can visit Garhwali Mess, but they need to seek prior permission as it is a military establishment. It is recommended to inquire with local authorities or travel guides about the current visiting protocols.
Tourists visiting Garhwali Mess can admire its vintage architecture, which showcases the colonial style of building. Inside, they can see a collection of animal trophies, photographs, and armaments that narrate the history of the Garhwal Rifles and their contributions to various military campaigns.
As it is an operational military establishment, there typically isn't an entrance fee for Garhwali Mess. However, tourists should confirm any charges or donation requests when obtaining permission to visit.
The best time to visit Garhwali Mess is during the months of March to June and September to November when the weather in Lansdowne is pleasant. It is recommended to check with the mess authorities for visiting hours and any particular days it may be closed to the public.
Being a military establishment, Garhwali Mess may not offer typical tourist facilities. However, visitors can expect basic amenities like restrooms. It’s a place more for historical and cultural interest than for leisure or tourist services.
Special events or days when Garhwali Mess might be open to the public could coincide with military celebrations or local festivals. Visitors should check with local tourism offices or the Garhwal Rifles regiment for updated information on such occasions.
A visit to Garhwali Mess can be relatively quick, lasting about 30 minutes to 1 hour, as the space accessible to civilians may be limited. However, visitors often combine the visit with other sites in Lansdowne to make the most of their day.
It is not common for regular guided tours to be available due to the nature of the establishment. Interested visitors can inquire at local travel agencies or seek assistance from local military contacts for potential guided experiences.
Photography inside Garhwali Mess might be restricted or prohibited due to security reasons and the privacy of the military premises. Tourists should ask for permission and adhere to any photography guidelines set by the establishment.
