Summers in Indian cities are becoming hotter with every passing year. As the sweltering summer approaches, vacation seems to be the only way to escape the heat and take a break from the monotonous daily life. Most of us opt for hill stations in the North or beaches in the South. But what if you want to opt for something way too different? Well choosing the best destination for a family vacation in India with other themes is not an easy task, thanks to the diversity and multitude of options available. There are beaches, wonderful specimens of architectures, adventure, and culture that not only offer variation but allow the family to bond over fun experiences. We have prepared a list of 7 places to make your search easy for a family vacation in India.
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The mesmerising Leh Ladakh
Image Credits- Ladakh
It’s just for hardcore bikers and for extensive adventure enthusiasts! Well sure it is but Leh Ladakh is not only for them. It’s a perfect holiday destination for families as well. Ladakh is a land of high passes, Buddhist monasteries and tiny hamlets. Both adventure and nature lovers come to this place to adore its scenic beauty. The best places to visit in Ladakh with family are Leh and regions. Leh is best-known for its Buddhist monuments and monasteries. Mountain Climbing, Jeep Safari tours, trekking, mountaineering and Yak Safaris are some of the adventures this place offers. Even if you are skipping the adventures, expect a pleasant time with the mercury level at 30 degree Celsius.
The important attractions to visit in Ladakh include Khardung La Pass, Samstanling Gompa, Leh Palace, Spituk Monastery and Nubra valley. Pangong Tso, where the shooting of 3 Idiots took place and Tso Mori Ri are two spectacular lakes that should be on your itinerary if you are planning to stay for a long vacation in Ladakh.
The nonchalant Nainital
Image Credits- Nainital
Scenic village with a spectacular turquoise lake, the twittering of birds, pleasant evenings and the lush environment – get them all in Nainital. Nainital is a small hill station, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,938 m above sea level. The centrally located lake, Naini Lake is a major attraction in Nainital; you can try boating there. You can take a stroll around the Mall Road and check out the shops or take the cable car up to Snow View from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the snow-clad Himalayas. The beauty of this hill station can be explored on weekends from Delhi. Basically a perfect destination for relaxation with family!
There are many places to see around Nainital like Saattal, Bheemtal, Naukuchiyatal and Khurpatal. Naina Devi Temple, Tibetan Market, Snow View, Tiffin Top and China Peak are must see in Nainital.
The Queen of Hills, Darjeeling
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A toy train running all the way through the hills providing a picture perfect landscape – sounds a quite filmy right! Well, you can definitely live the moment, if you plan to visit Darjeeling. Darjeeling is known for its toy train which is a mini railway service that takes passengers from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. It is must advisable for every family. What all to see there? Well you can rise early to witness the beautiful sunrise at Tiger Hill, visit Ghoom Monastery – the oldest monastery in Darjeeling and Lloyd’s Botanical Garden, which is known to house exotic flora and fauna.
You can also hop on a cable car, very popular among families that will take you to Rangit Valley from Darjeeling. You can even consider going for white water rafting on the Teesta River. You can also head to Mirik if you are up for a horse ride in the mountains.
The stunning Goa
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What are holidays without the fun of the beaches? And when you think of beaches, the name to strike first is Goa. The tiny Indian state is world famous for its palm-fringed beaches and water activities of all kinds. The landscape of this tiny Indian state is dotted with some of India’s most beautiful beaches that attract vacationers from all around the world. You can relax on a beautiful beach, entice your tummy with yummy food, take bike rides to explore in and around the place or indulge in some exciting water sports – Goa never offers a dull moment.
Some of the most visited beaches of Goa include Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach and Baga Beach.
The picturesque hill station Coorg
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Coorg is renowned worldwide as a wonderful family holiday destination in South India. It’s known for its green and natural environment. The beauty is so that it is often called as the ‘Scotland of India’ and it was the British planter community who affectionately called it by the name. Dense green forests can be seen all around where you can spot a large variety of diverse flora and fauna species. Besides the natural beauty, it’s a paradise for adventure lovers and offers immense opportunities for rafting, trekking, camping, etc.
Other attractions include Dubare Elephant Camp, Nagarhole National Park, Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, Omkareshwara Temple, Talacauvery and Cauvery Nisargadhama.
The mesmerising Ooty
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The crown of Nilgiri district, Ooty situated in South India provides tourists with ample of options to look forward to. The resplendent landscape and the soothing climate make it one of the most popular hill stations in South India during summer. The Western Ghats has been kind enough to provide Ooty with just the right type of ambience and beauty. Besides gazing at the natural beauty, you can enjoy playing snooker and golf along with activities like fishing, trekking and horse racing in Ooty. Perfect for a family holiday!
Make sure you put these places on your list – Botanical Garden, Lake Park, Deer Park, Doddabetta, Kalhatty Falls and Pykara Lake and Waterfalls.
The most popular Mussoorie
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Mussoorie has always been one of the popular tourist destinations in India. Situated at an elevation of 2000 m, this place with its green rolling hills and varied flora makes it no less than a fairyland. While enjoying the ride on the ropeway or the cable car, which takes you to Gun Hill, you can catch the fantastic panoramic view of Mussoorie. Mall Road is quite the charmer as this place allows tourists to shop for various things. Another fun place to visit in Mussoorie is Kempty Falls, where one can enjoy bathing under a giant waterfall. Ah, summer fun! Other than these Cloud End and Lal Tibba are some must visit places in Mussoorie.

