After all the discussion on travelling solo, it is time to talk about family vacations. Similar to solo travelling, family vacations have their own element of fun and amusement. With tourism expanding like anything, people tend to get confused due to an overflow of options. In addition to that, elders are constantly concerned about how appropriate a certain place is for their kids.
So, keeping all of this in mind, here is a list of the most perfect destinations for a memorable family holiday.
1) Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
J&K is rightly named ‘Paradise on Earth’. Srinagar boasts of beautiful lakes and spectacular Mughal gardens. Nishat Bagh, Chasme Shahi and Shalimar Bagh are 3 of the most spectacular Mughal gardens that should be in your itinerary. The Shikara ride on Dal Lake shoudn’t be missed at any cost!
2) Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Located in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations and preferred destinations for a family holiday in India. It is well known for adventure sports like river rafting, mountaineering, skiing and water crossing. A trip to Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley from Manali is planned by most people.
3) Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Another very popular holiday spot, Ooty is a tiny hill station in Tamil Nadu, well-known for its serene and calming atmosphere, and for being an escape from the hustle-bustle of everyday citylife.
4) Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Located on a group of islands at the juncture of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea, this trip is a once in a lifetime experience. With amazing natural beauty and stunning marine life, Andaman and Nicobar is far away from all other tourist destinations.
5) Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
A go-to spot for Delhiites because of its proximity to the capitatal, Mussoorie is a captivating hill station in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The pleasant weather here invites tourists from all places. Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Jwala Devi Temple are famous attractions in Mussoorie.
6) Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Known for its lush greenery and sparkling water bodies, Mount Abu is located on the highest peak on the Aravali Range in Rajasthan. It is the perfect place to keep it cool in Rajasthan, and relax and rejuvenate while on a holiday. Sunset Point and Guru Shikhar Peak are two of the several major attractions there.
7) Panchmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Also known as ‘Satpura ki Rani’, this place is a true beauty. A calm hill station with cascading waterfalls, and dense forests, Panchmarhi is one of the most popular hill stations in Central India known for its serenity and views of natural beauty.
8) Darjeeling, West Bengal
Located at a height of about 7,000 feet, Darjeeling is paradise for nature lovers. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in India, it is greatly preferred for a family holiday. The tea gardens attract tourists, and people throng Darjeeling all throughout the year because of its pleasant weather. Words cannot describe the beauty of this place!
9) Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The former ‘Summer capital of the British’, Shimla is more beautiful in actuality than how it is picturised in Bollywood movies. It is a much sought after family destination, and main attractions here are Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhu Temple and Kufri.
10) Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
One of the best tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is also known as ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. The pine forests, echo point, silver cascade, Green Valley View point and Kodai lake are some famously known attractions here.
11) Coorg, Karnataka
A hill station known the world over for its beauty and praised everywhere for being full of greenery and a pleasant experience, Coorg is often called ‘The Scotland of India’. It is paradise for adventure lovers and offers immense opportunities for rafting, trekking, camping and angling etc. Some other attractions in Coorg include Dubare Elephant Camp, Nagarhole National Park, Raja’s Seat, and Abbey Falls.
12) Lonavala, Maharashtra
Families mostly from Mumbai and Pune frequent Lonavala for weekend getaways. At an elevation of about 2,047 feet, it offers gorgeous views of Deccan plateau and the Konkan coast, both on opposite sides.
13) Wayanad, Kerala
A district located in North-east Kerala, Wayanad is a perfect setting for an adventurous getaway. With vast expanses still remaining unexplored, this place in ‘God’s own country’ is truly a sight to endure.
14) Munnar, Kerala
Another treat offered by ‘God’s own country’, Munnar is an enchanting hill station located in Idukki district of Kerala. It is best-known for its natural scenic beauty, sprawling lush tea farms and tranquil ambience making it a perfect place to go for family holidays in Kerala. Paragliding, trekking, jungle safaris, boating and cycling are some adventure activities one can indulge in here.
15) Yuksom, Sikkim
Located in the Western parts of Sikkim, Yuksom is a village with an old-world charm to it and is the origin of several enthralling treks into the Himalayas or the magical Kanchenjunga. More known for its pristine beauty and rustic appeal, it was the first capital of Sikkim. It is a historic town and a ideal for a family getaway.