Summer vacation, the pure joy children have after giving their exams and being free for over two months to enjoy to the fullest without having to worry about homework, studies, etc. It is also the time for them to pick up a hobby and enjoy trips with their family to different parts of the world. Many parents still prefer taking their kids to their native place where the children meet their grandparents, extended family and enjoy the village life. On the other hand, there are parents who like going to a new place every vacation to spark some wanderlust in their children. If you belong to the latter category, here are the best places to visit in India this summer vacation.
Mahabaleshwar
One of the most popular hill stations especially in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is known for its sightseeing points as well as strawberry farms. The hill station is about five hours’ drive away from Mumbai and consists of winding ghats. There are several accommodation options thanks to the popularity of the hill station. Families can enjoy a range of activities when here that range from boating to horse-riding and trekking. There are several vantage points in Mahabaleshwar that offer a great view of the hills and valley and make for perfect backdrops for photos. When here, go to Mapro Gardens and enjoy a hearty meal or shop for jams and juices.
Nainital
A beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, Nainital is known for its lake and temples. The town is built around the Naini Lake that offers activities like boating. The hill station has plenty of accommodation options thanks to its popularity and summer is a good time to visit this place when the weather isn’t too hot or cold. While Nainital may not have too many activities like other hill stations, if you are looking for a refreshing and relaxing trip with your family, this is a destination that you should consider.
Dharamsala
A slightly offbeat destination for a family vacation yet Dharamsala is one place to experience pure bliss as well as get a peek into the Tibetan culture. The hill station is divided into upper and lower sections and McLeodganj is one place where you will find most number of tourists. Dharamsala is also famous for being the home of Dalai Lama and if he is in town, you can actually meet him too. The quaint monasteries and the vibe of the place is enough to help you unwind. Dharamsala also has a lot of scenic beauty and you can explore it all when here. Do buy prayer flags as a souvenir of your trip.
Coorg
Coorg is also called the Scotland of India as it has rolling hills and is famous for its tea and coffee plantations. In fact, you can book homestays that are very close to plantations owned by families. This offers a different experience altogether for you and your kids. Summer is the best time to visit Coorg as the climate is cool and you can venture out for sightseeing. The cuisine here is also very popular so do try local dishes at an authentic restaurant or someone’s kitchen. There are several hotels but it is recommended that you book your stay in advance to avoid disappointment.
Darjeeling
West Bengal isn’t really home to many hill stations but Darjeeling is popular across India. Right from the toy train that takes you here to the slow-paced life and the tea estates, there’s something amazing about this place. Darjeeling has greenery all around and a pleasant weather not just in the summer but other seasons as well. When here, take your kids to show them how the best tea in the world is produced as well as enjoy the toy train ride that is also unique to Darjeeling. The people here enjoy the leisure pace and you should too learn to slow down when here.
Shillong
The northeast of India has several hidden treasures worth exploring and if you aren’t looking to do the usual this year, take your kids to the less touristy part of the county. Shillong in Meghalaya is one that should be on your list this summer. There is so much to explore in and around this place so keep at least a week aside to explore it. Called the Scotland of India, you will find rolling hills and greenery all around. A little away from Shillong lies Mawlynnong which is Asia’s cleanest village and a welcome change from what we usually see in other parts of the country. There is also Cherrapunjee that is home to the living root bridges and is also one of the wettest places on earth.
Manali
Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India and it is so for a reason. Summer vacation is the time when several families visit this place to enjoy the pleasant weather as well as enjoy sightseeing. Manali may get quite crowded during this season but there is plenty of accommodation available for every budget. You can also take part in several activities that include trekking, rappelling, river rafting and more. Manali is also known for its hilly vistas and there is a Snow Point too near Rohtang Pass. Here you can rent clothes and enjoy snow activities like sledging, tyre ride, etc.
Sikkim
Another place from the northeast that we recommend you visit during summer vacation is Sikkim. There is so much natural beauty here that you will be mesmerized. Since the roads aren’t very well-maintained, you need to keep at least a week in hand to go from one place to the other. You will also need a few days to adjust to the climate here and oxygen levels so be prepared for that too. However, you will be rewarded with some untouched beauty and vistas in Sikkim that are worth capturing on your camera.
Gulmarg
One of the most scenic places in India, Gulmarg is a ski village that attracts serious adventure sports lovers as well as families and novices. If your kids want to see snow, you should plan a trip to Gulmarg. Summer vacation is a good time to visit Gulmarg as the weather is pleasant and not biting cold. You will however need your woolens. There are ski resorts that offer packages to teach you the basics of skiing and range from a few hours to a few days depending on your availability. Go on a gondola ride, make snow angels or simply enjoy the beautiful location when here.
Munnar
Munnar is a hill station in Kerala and is known for its cool weather and tea plantations. It is perfect for all kinds of travelers including couples as well as families. The beauty of Munnar is mesmerizing and you will find lush greenery as far as the eyes can see. The winding roads are another attraction of this hill station. Activities like boating, trekking and paragliding are perfect for the kids when here. The mist-laden views, the aroma of fresh spices and tea and the rolling hills leave a beautiful impact on the mind.
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