All of us need a break every once in a while. And, what better way to escape the monotony of life than spending a few days with your loved ones away from home? From Kashmir at the top to Tamil Nadu at the bottom, India teems with spots that are just perfect for family holidays. Here is a list of some incredible family holiday destinations that will give you the vacation of your dreams.
Best Family Holiday Destinations in North India
North India is replete with fabulous holiday places. There are numerous hill stations that you can throng in the region. Check out that top of these:
Shimla
The erstwhile summer capital of British India, Shimla is counted among the most famous hill stations in India. Its picture-perfect landscape coupled with its myriad points of interest makes it one of the best holiday destinations in India for families. You can visit in summers for a respite from the scorching heat or flock during the winter season to play with snow at Kufri.
Points of Interest in Shimla: Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhoo Temple, The Ridge
Srinagar
There’s barely any place in India that is more gorgeous than Srinagar. This heaven on earth sits pretty at the center of the city is the stunning Dal Lake. A shikara ride on the waterbody is a must for every tourist visiting Srinagar for the first time. A backdrop of snow-clad mountains adds to the beauty of this city. Moreover, there are many things to do in the city for you and your loved ones.
Points of Interest in Srinagar: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Jamia Masjid
Amritsar
Situated in the state of Punjab, Amritsar is home to the holiest Sikh shrine – the Golden Temple. Thus, the city is thronged by tourists and devotees alike throughout the year. However, Sri Harmandir Sahib isn’t the only place to visit in Amritsar. You can book flights to Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport and reach Amritsar without any hassles.
Points of Interest in Amritsar: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Akal Takht
Best Family Holiday Destinations in South India
From picturesque coastal destinations to serene hill stations, South India offers varied places for family outings. The best of these are:
Munnar
Be it a romantic escapade with the significant other or a getaway with the entire family, Munnar is an apt spot for it. This hill station amidst the Western Ghats is noted for its rolling hills and undisturbed tranquillity. You can plan a trip to Munnar to immerse in the beauty of nature. The 97-sq km Eravikulam National Park is where you can come across regional flora and fauna.
Points of Interest in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Pothamedu View Point
Pondicherry
Pondicherry or Puducherry is known for its French colonial heritage that is beautifully preserved in its tree-lined streets and historic villas. The world-famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram is one of the biggest hotspots in the union territory. It also has a wealth of beaches where you can soak the sun or play in the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean.
Points of Interest in Pondicherry: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
Best Family Holiday Destinations in East and Northeast India
The eastern and north-eastern regions of India also boast many places that are perfect for family travel vacations. Here are the best of those:
Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park has the largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. More than 2200 of these fascinating creatures that make for more than 60 percent of their total population roam in the dense grasslands of Kaziranga National Park. You and your family will have a whale of a time navigating the lush forests and capturing the animals in your cameras.
What to See in Kaziranga National Park: One-horned rhinoceros, royal Bengal tiger, sambar, deer, Gangetic dolphin
Mawlynnong
The state of Meghalaya houses numerous places that are apt for family vacations. However, not many of these are as impressive as the Mawlynnong village in the East Khasi Hills district. It is also referred to as “the Cleanest Village in Asia,” acclaim it won back in 2003. A visit to this village will bring you one step closer to nature.
Points of Interest in Mawlynnong: Balancing Rock of Mawlynnong, Living Root Bridge, Byrdaw Falls, Church of the Epiphany
Best Family Holiday Destinations in West India
Here are some great family trip destinations in the western part of the country:
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is another pristine hill station in the Western Ghats of South India. It is one of the most sought-after hill stations among the people of Mumbai and Pune. The landscape is laden with meandering rivers, cascading waterfalls, and soaring peaks. Apart from that, there are also numerous activities by the likes of rock climbing, horse riding, trekking and more that you can enjoy with your loved ones.
Points of Interest in Mahabaleshwar: Venna Lake, Pratapgad, Elephant’s Head Point, Wilson Point of Sunrise, Arthur’s Seat
Jaipur
Though it is known as the Pink City, Jaipur has more than pink in its colourful colours to pique your interest. Whether you’re travelling alone or with a group of friends or family, you’ll find a plethora of activities to participate in and a plethora of sites to explore. This is sure to keep your spirits high while you’re in Jaipur.
In reality, the city serves as a ‘gateway to Rajasthan.’ A visit to this regal city in India will give you an overview of Rajasthan. Forts, museums, lakes, genuine gastronomy, and ‘colourful’ shopping all contribute to a pleasant stay.
Points of Interest in Jaipur: Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Palace of Wind, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Birla Mandir Temple, Elephant Joy
Gokarna
Gokarna is best renowned for its picturesque beaches with white sand and swaying coconut palms. It is a Hindu pilgrimage place in Karnataka. Aside from the beaches, Gokarna is home to several ancient and modern temples. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India for single visitors. There are a handful of vegetarian-only eateries in the town because of its religious significance, but seafood restaurants and a relaxing bar are not hard to come by.
Points of Interest in Munnar: Maha Ganapathi Temple, Shiva Cave, Koti Teertha, and Sri Bhadrakali Temple, Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Half Moon Beach, Kudle Beach, Paradise Beach
Ooty
While there are numerous picturesque hill stations in the Western Ghats that are a great choice for a family trip, Ooty is among the best of these. What separates it from other family holiday destinations in South India is the long list of points of interest to explore in and around this town.
Points of Interest in Ooty: DRose Garden, oddabetta Viewpoint, St. Stephen’s Church, Botanical Garden, Pykara Lake
Shillong
The capital of the state of Meghalaya, Shillong is a picture-postcard destination that you can visit with friends, family, spouse or alone. If its refreshing weather fails to revitalise your body and mind, then its bewitching natural splendour will sure do the trick. There are numerous lakes and waterfalls in the area, making it a nature lovers’ paradise.
Points on Interest in Shillong: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, Nohkalikai Falls, Shillong View Point, Don Bosco Museum
Matheran
Matheran is a unique hill station in Maharashtra’s Raigad district. What separates it from other scenic family holiday destinations in the region is its pollution-free environment. It is Asia’s only automobile free hill station. So, if you wish to visit a place unlike any other on your next family holiday, then pick Matheran.
Points of Interest in Matheran: Dodhani Waterfalls, Chanderi Caves, Louisa Point, Charlotte Lake, Irshalgad Fort
Besides these, Andaman Island, Manali, Goa, Ooty, Gangtok, Shillong, and Matheran are also some amazing family holiday spots. Book your cheap hotel and flight with HappyEasyGo to save money and have a memorable family vacation.
