What better way to unwind and take a break from the monotony of life with a family vacation? It helps you to not just reconnect with yourself but also with your loved ones. Spending some quality time with family members is just what is required to rejuvenate the stressed body and soul. Furthermore, with India’s diversity in different holiday destinations, it gets a little tricky to pick the best ones for a family vacay! But worry not, travellers! We have the 10 finest destinations for Family vacations in India:
Alleppey, Kerala
Experience the calming backwaters of Kerala at Alappuzha (Alleppey) which is also known as ‘the Venice of the East’. It is called so because of its huge network of backwaters and more than thousand houseboats. Found in the backwaters of Alappuzha, these houseboats are in fact a reworked version of the Kettuvallams of olden times. So go for a houseboat tour and you will be rewarded with some quiet time with your loved ones along the water! All the family members, young and old, will be charmed by the scenic views and lush greenery.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
‘Queen of the Hills’, Darjeeling is a beautiful hill station located at an elevation of 2050 meter in West Bengal. This scenic hill station is spread over a steep mountain ridge and surrounded by emerald-green tea plantations and towered over by majestic Kanchenjunga- the world’s third-highest mountain peak. It offers spectacular views of the Himalayas particularly the Kanchenjunga range as well as tea estates with the heritage toy train run by Darjeeling Himalayan Railway-is the pride of the town.
Also Read: Lamahatta-Kalimpong-Darjeeling, The Must-Visit Trinity of West Bengal
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Located 280 km from Bangalore down the picturesque Mysore State Highway, Ooty has been one of the most popular hill stations in India since British times. Passing through the dense forests of Bandipur and Masinagudi and about 32 hairpin bends, the trip to Ooty (or Udagamandalam) is just as stunning as the destination. A tranquil retreat in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Ooty will charm you with its heritage homes, churches, beautiful lakes, botanical gardens, and pine forests.
Coorg, Karnataka
While there are lots of plantations and hill stations located around Bangalore, Coorg (Kodagu), located in the Western Ghats is undoubtedly one of the best family holiday destinations in India. Almost 250 km from Bangalore, Coorg is known as the “Scotland of Southern India “. It is filled with waterfalls, lush tea and coffee plantations, three wildlife sanctuaries, one national park and gorgeous sunset points- making it an ideal getaway with the family.
Also Read: These Are The Best Places To Visit In India During Monsoon
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Another enchanting family destination in Tamil Nadu is ‘Princess of hill stations’: Kodaikanal, known for its awe-inspiring scenic beauty. Set amidst dense forests and enchanting waterfalls in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu at an altitude of 7200ft above the sea, Kodaikanal surrounds the beautiful (man-made) Kodaikanal Lake. Visit the vibrant gardens of Bryant’s Park, the massive Pillar Rocks, and the many picturesque churches in the city.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Boasting a plethora of beaches and a range of islands to plan your wedding, the Andaman islands are truly a tourist delight. This Union Territory of India comprises of more than 400 islands which also home to wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves and National parks that mark the place unique among all other coastal regions of India. This stunning archipelago offers a ‘pool’ of activities for you and your family. Visit the Cellular Jail, Radhanagar Beach, Corbyn’s Cove Beach, Kalapathar Beach, Ross Island, Natural Coral Bridge, Limestone Caves and Chiriya Tapu here with the fam!
Also Read: 22 Amazing Things to do in the Andaman Islands
Munnar, Kerala
Located in Idduki district of Kerala, Munnar is a hill station nestled in the mighty Western Ghats Mountain ranges. Also referred to as “Kashmir of South India”, it is famed for its natural scenic beauty, sprawling lush tea farms and tranquil ambience. A true treasure trove for the adventure junkies, you can indulge in offers paragliding, trekking, jungle safaris, boating and cycling here at Munnar.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Hailed as the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur invites you to its majestic architectures, royal Rajput influence, lifestyle intricacies, and rich art & cultural history. It is the largest city of Rajasthan and was built in the eighteenth century by Sawai Jai Singh as India’s first planned city. The top tourist attractions of this enthralling, as well as historical city, are City Palace, Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Nahargarh Fort and Chokhi Dhani. Further, you can head to Birla Mandir and Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal along with its dazzling markets.
Also Read: The Best Places To Visit When You Have A Day In Jaipur
Lonavala, Maharashtra
Located about 82 km from Mumbai, Lonavala is a small hill station in Maharashtra that offers gorgeous views of the Deccan plateau and the Konkan coast, both on the opposite sides. This striking hill station is set in Sahyadris, 2041 ft above the sea level is a truly a visual treat with its lush velvet meadows and pristine surroundings. Don’t forget to explore ancient ruins at the Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedsa Caves, and the nearby fortresses of Lohagad and Visapur.
Nainital, Uttarakhand
One of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, Nainital, is a quaint hill station built around a uniquely shaped lake known as the ‘Naini Lake’ (thus, contributing to its name). Situated at an altitude of 1938 km above sea level amidst the Kumaon Hills, Nainital is best known for its tranquil lakes, pleasantly balmy evenings and lush environs. Also famously known as ‘City of Lakes,’ it features water sports activities, rock-climbing, climbing, and stupendous slopes- making it a picturesque paradise for all.
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
A home to magnificent gardens and lakes, Srinagar is an epitome of paradise on earth. This bewitchingly beautiful destination is the capital of Jammu and Kashmir and lies on the banks of the Jhelum River, therefore offering a plethora of gorgeous scenic vistas. Srinagar’s sheer beauty makes it a great vacation place for the whole family but its greatest drawcard is mesmerizingly placid Dal Lake.
Pick the perfect vacation spot for your family and do let us know about your Family vacation experiences below!
