India is a land of rich cultural diversity where each of its twenty-eight states offers unique attractions and experiences for visitors. As a result, it is home to a variety of incredible family-friendly destinations.
Vacations are an essential part of life, providing an opportunity to break free from the routine and monotony of daily life. If you’re looking to take a refreshing break, you don’t need to look beyond India.
With numerous family-friendly travel spots scattered across the country, you can easily plan a short getaway without leaving the borders of this vibrant nation. From historical landmarks to religious sites, India offers beautiful destinations that are perfect for family vacations without breaking the bank.
In this article we’ll explore fifteen of the best places for family trips in India along with the activities you can enjoy while visiting. Keep reading to discover more!
10 Best Places To Visit With Family In India
Discover the best family-friendly destinations in India for an unforgettable vacation. Each location offers distinct experiences, guaranteeing a fun and memorable trip for every member of the family.
1. Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is one of the best places in India for a family vacation. Known for its stunning landscapes and pleasant weather, it offers an array of experiences that are perfect for families of all ages.
Shimla, often regarded as one of the top honeymoon spots in Himachal Pradesh, is also ideal for family trips. The region’s love for snow knows no age limits, making it a wonderful retreat for families seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Its scenic beauty whether in the winter with snow-capped mountains or in summer with lush green valleys, is simply mesmerizing.
But Himachal Pradesh has much more to offer than just Shimla. Manali, Dalhousie, and Kasauli are among the top destinations you should consider visiting.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, Himachal is perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking, skiing, paragliding, river rafting, and ice skating. These thrilling experiences are accompanied by trained experts, ensuring safety for all participants.
For those with a religious inclination, Himachal Pradesh is home to several famous temples, offering spiritual significance alongside natural beauty.
Dalhousie, with its rich biodiversity, makes for an excellent family vacation destination. Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers will find the state’s sanctuaries, especially during the Kalatop wildlife safari, to be a photographer’s paradise.
Don’t miss out on visiting the beautiful waterfalls, monasteries in Spiti Valley, and local markets that sell authentic handicrafts, all of which add to the charm of Himachal Pradesh.
Things to Do:
- Explore the rich flora and fauna
- Wildlife photography
- Visit breathtaking waterfalls
Best Time to Visit:
- February to June (Himachal Pradesh is an excellent summer vacation destination, offering a refreshing alternative to the usual snow-filled getaway).
2. Rajasthan
Rajasthan, known for its rich history and royal heritage, is one of the best places to visit in India for a family vacation. The state’s vibrant culture majestic forts, and palaces offer a fascinating glimpse into India’s past, making it an ideal destination for both adults and children to explore the country’s storied history.
The state’s crown jewel, Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is just the beginning. Rajasthan is home to several must-visit locations, including Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer. Each city is filled with historical marvels and unique experiences. Udaipur, often referred to as the “City of Lakes,” boasts the stunning City Palace, the picturesque Lake Pichola, boating on Fateh Sagar Lake, and the fascinating Bagore ki Haveli Museum.
Jaisalmer is famous for the Golden Fort, or Sonar Kella, a must-see historical landmark. The city also offers exciting jeep and camel safaris, allowing you to explore the golden sands and ancient havelis.
For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Rajasthan offers incredible wildlife experiences such as visiting Ranthambore National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, and the Dilwara Jain Temple. The Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and the Amal Sabha are other historical sites that should not be missed.
Things to Do:
- Camel safari
- Visit historical forts and palaces
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March (Ideal for avoiding the scorching summer heat and enjoying the state’s rich culture and history.)
3. Nainital
Nainital is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich biodiversity, making it one of the best places to visit in India with family. The serene lakes, lush green hills, and various attractions make it an ideal getaway for nature lovers.
Most Nainital trip packages include a visit to the famous Nainital Lake, the Mukutushwar Temple, the High Altitude Zoo, and Naina Peak. In addition to these there are many other spots to explore, such as the Eco Cave Gardens, Snow View Point, Dorothy’s Seat, and the Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary.
A short trip from Nainital will take you to Jim Corbett National Park, where you can enjoy the Corbett Waterfall and indulge in exciting activities like Jeep or Elephant safaris, fishing, river rafting, and trekking. These activities make Nainital an adventure-filled destination for families.
Things to Do:
- Fishing
- Elephant safari
- Trekking
- River rafting
Best Time to Visit:
- December to March (Perfect for enjoying the cool weather and winter activities.
4. North East India
India’s northeast, sometimes known as the “Seven Sisters,” is made up of the states of Manipur, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura.These states collectively offer some of the best family-friendly travel experiences in India, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of nature.
Due to the proximity of these states, they are often explored together in a single trip. North East tour packages typically include visits to some of the region’s most iconic destinations, such as Kaziranga National Park, Cherrapunji, Nathula Pass, Tsogmo Lake, Tawang Monastery, Teesta River, Loktak Lake, Gorichen Peak, Elephant Falls, and Lachung. For nature enthusiasts, these spots provide breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
In addition to sightseeing, you can enjoy exciting activities such as fishing and trekking, making it an ideal vacation for families seeking adventure and relaxation in nature.
Things to Do:
- Fishing
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
Best Time to Visit:
- March to June (Ideal weather for exploring the region’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.
5. Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands, a group of 300 islands located in the Bay of Bengal, are a tropical paradise offering a blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Known historically as Kalapani, these islands are one of the best family-friendly destinations in India, especially ideal for a vacation in May.
Andaman tour packages offer an array of exciting activities and attractions, including visits to the iconic Cellular Jail, Elephant Beach, Limestone Cave, Ross Island, Kala Patthar Beach, and Havelock Islands. These are some of the top places to explore in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
For beach lovers, Radhanagar Beach is renowned for its pristine beauty, while scuba diving at Neil Island offers a chance to explore vibrant marine life. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets at Chidiya Tapu, which complete the picturesque experience.
Things to Do:
- Visit Elephant Beach
- Explore Limestone Cave
- Discover Ross Island
- Relax at Kala Patthar Beach and Havelock Islands
Best Time to Visit:
- October to May (Perfect weather for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.)
6. Kashmir
Kashmir is one of India’s most stunning destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty. Known for its snow-capped mountains and lush valleys, it is one of the best places to visit in India with family, especially during the summer months, when the cool weather and picturesque views provide a perfect escape.
When planning a trip to Kashmir, make sure to include some of its most iconic spots, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Gurex Valley, Pahalgam, and Yusmarg. With Kashmir tour packages, you can enjoy a variety of activities, such as taking a boat ride on Dal Lake or exploring the famous Tulip Garden.
There are also exciting adventures to try, such as a Gondola ride in Gulmarg skiing on snow-covered slopes, trekking to Thajiwas Glacier, and crossing the Zoji La Pass. You can also visit Wular Lake, Habba Khatoon Peak, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari for more scenic experiences. Kashmir is perfect for families looking to enjoy both natural beauty and adventure sports.
Things to Do:
- Gondola rides
- Skiing
- Visit gardens and scenic spots
Best Time to Visit:
- March to August (Ideal for enjoying the cool climate and outdoor activities, although September also offers a pleasant experience.)
7. Rishikesh & Haridwar
Haridwar and Rishikesh, two cities steeped in spirituality and religion are among the best places to visit in India for a family trip, especially if you’re traveling with older adults. Rich in temples and sacred sites, these cities offer a peaceful and enriching experience, perfect for families seeking solace and cultural immersion.
A must-do activity in Rishikesh is participating in the Ganga Aarti, a beautiful and spiritual ritual that immerses you in the local traditions.
With Rishikesh tour packages, you can explore several iconic landmarks such as Har Ki Pauri, Triveni Ghat, Shri Mata Mansa Devi Mandir, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and Rajaji National Park. The famous Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula bridges are also part of most Uttarakhand travel itineraries.
Aside from the spiritual experiences, Rishikesh is also known for its adventure activities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor sports or temple visits, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
Things to Do:
- Participate in Ganga Aarti
- Visit temples and sacred sites
- Sightseeing
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February (Ideal for exploring the spiritual sites and enjoying the cooler weather.)
8. Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is a city of immense spiritual significance and one of the best family destinations in India. While its temples and sacred ghats are renowned worldwide, the city offers much more than just religious experiences.
In addition to visiting the iconic Ganges River and Assi Ghat, explore unique attractions like Ramnagar Fort, Dhamek Stupa, and the authentic weaving factories in the nearby villages. Sarnath, a key Buddhist pilgrimage site, and Ruchika Art Gallery provide cultural and historical insights into this ancient city. Boating on the Ganges, especially during sunrise or sunset, is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Varanasi.
Things to Do:
- Visit the sacred Ganga Ghats
- Take a historical tour of Ramnagar Fort and Sarnath
- Experience boating on the Ganges
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February (Ideal for pleasant weather and sightseeing.)
9. Puri
Puri, located in Odisha, is renowned for its spiritual and scenic charm, making it one of the best places to visit in India with family. Famous for the iconic Jagannath Temple and its pristine beaches, Puri offers a perfect mix of religious significance and leisure.
For those seeking more than temple visits, Puri has plenty to explore. Take a trip to the Raghurajpur Artist Village to witness traditional art forms, enjoy a serene boat ride at Chilika Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary, and marvel at breathtaking sunsets on the sea beach. Other attractions include the annual Rath Yatra, Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary, Puri Lighthouse, and the picturesque hill station of Daringbadi.
Things to Do:
- Explore wildlife sanctuaries
- Witness sunsets by the sea
- Experience local art and culture
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February (Pleasant weather makes this an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.)
10. Gujarat
Gujarat, rich in history and culture, is one of the best places to visit in India with family. Known as the land of Mahatma Gandhi and home to the spectacular Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat offers an eclectic mix of wildlife, heritage sites, handicrafts, and scenic hill resorts.
Key attractions in Gujarat include the historic Gandhi Ashram, the iconic Somnath Temple, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Sabarmati Riverfront, Adalaj Stepwell, Kankaria Lake, and the sacred city of Dwarka. For history enthusiasts, additional highlights in Kutch tour packages often include ancient sites like Lothal and Dholavira, along with the architectural marvels of Patan and the Sun Temple at Modhera.
Things to Do:
- Explore historical landmarks
- Shop for traditional handicrafts and sculptures
- Visit wildlife sanctuaries
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February (Ideal weather for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.)
Conclusion
India is a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations, offering something unique for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the serene beaches of Andaman, the royal heritage of Rajasthan, the spiritual vibes of Varanasi, or the natural beauty of North East India, there’s no shortage of options for an unforgettable family vacation.
From adventure activities and wildlife sanctuaries to historical landmarks and cultural hubs, each destination promises enriching experiences that strengthen family bonds.
So pack your bags, choose your favorite spot, and embark on a journey filled with joy, discovery, and cherished memories with your loved ones. India truly has it all for a perfect family getaway!
FAQ: Best Places to Visit with Family in India
Which are the best places to visit in India with family?
Some top family-friendly destinations in India include Jaipur, Kashmir, Andaman Islands, Varanasi, Rishikesh, Gujarat, Puri, Himachal Pradesh, and the North East region. Each destination offers unique experiences, from historical landmarks to natural beauty and adventure activities.
What is the best time to plan a family trip in India?
The ideal time depends on your chosen destination. For most places, October to March offers pleasant weather, while summer destinations like Kashmir, Himachal, and the North East are best visited from March to June.
Are there budget-friendly family vacation options in India?
Yes, many destinations like Puri, Rishikesh, Jaipur, and Gujarat are budget-friendly and offer affordable accommodations, dining, and activities.
What are some adventure activities for families in India?
Popular adventure activities include trekking and paragliding in Himachal Pradesh, river rafting in Rishikesh, wildlife safaris in Gujarat and Kaziranga, and scuba diving in the Andaman Islands.
Which places in India are suitable for senior family members?
Religious and spiritual destinations like Varanasi, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Puri, and Dwarka are ideal for senior family members due to their serene atmosphere and cultural significance.
Are there beach destinations in India for family vacations?
Yes, Goa, Andaman Islands, and Puri are fantastic beach destinations offering activities like water sports, sunbathing, and scenic sunsets.
What are the best historical places to visit with family in India?
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Gujarat, and Rajasthan are excellent for exploring India’s rich history, featuring iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Qutub Minar, and ancient temples.
