Landour Writer’s Retreat for Aspiring Authors and Boundless Creativity

In the misty embrace of Landour, a charming hillside town in Uttarakhand steeped in literary history, TheWriteScene’s Landour Writers’ Retreat recently unfolded like a rich tapestry of inspiration and creativity. Conceived by award-winning author Deeba Salim Irfan, this retreat was more than a meeting of minds; it was a haven for writers from across India seeking to hone their craft amid the peaceful landscape that inspired celebrated author Ruskin Bond.

The retreat gathered an eclectic group of writers—self-published authors, emerging voices, and even those on the cusp of mainstream recognition, like Rana Preet Gill, whose upcoming novel will soon grace shelves under Penguin’s imprint. Through a thoughtfully designed itinerary, Deeba’s vision came alive, offering a harmonious blend of skill-building, introspection, and literary immersion.

Workshops led by literary stalwarts offered participants tailored insights into the writing process. Premanka joined as a guest host, lending his editorial expertise to guide writers and help refine their manuscripts. Writers also had the unique chance to contribute to Leaves from Landour, an anthology inspired by the region, to be published by TheWriteScene in 2025.

n addition to intensive workshops, the retreat offered a menu of enriching activities, each designed to deepen participants’ connection with the land and unlock their creative potential. Writers were treated to hikes through the enchanting Jaberkhet Nature Reserve, sessions of flute yoga, and forest bathing, each activity fostering a profound connection between nature and creativity. Sound healing sessions further enriched the experience, helping participants tap into the inner silence often vital for creativity.

Adding a layer of warmth to the gathering was a heartfelt message from Ruskin Bond himself, encouraging attendees to embrace both solitude and the creative journey. His words echoed through the retreat, creating a reverent space for introspection and self-discovery.

The retreat has left participants brimming with enthusiasm for future gatherings, with many, like Bijitri Roy—a former corporate lawyer and budding writer—expressing a desire to return. For these writers, the retreat wasn’t merely a workshop but a transformative journey—a blend of growth, inspiration, and community that left an indelible mark on their creative lives.

Premanka captured the essence of the retreat in his reflection and concluded, “The Landour retreat was an incredibly enriching experience. Hats off to Deeba for crafting an ambiance ripe for reading, writing, and ideation. I wish her the very best as she continues to inspire the writing community.”