If you're in Uttarakhand, set out early from your base if you're heading to Landour; especially if Ruskin Bond's home is on the itinerary. As we were to find out, Landour's pretty roads are narrow and winding (not meant for the faint-hearted). Despite the slow pace to reach our Everest, we lost ourselves amid stunning vignettes of the Doon Valley, chirping bulbuls, horseback traders and lush deodars. Finally, we arrived at Ivy Cottage - Bond's charming hilltop home. After a long chat with the celebrated author that was filled with anecdotes about his life, flashbacks of his wanderings, and laughter, we bid adieu. The scenic town and its pleasant weather must have soothed the homesick British army men stationed here.