Are you planning to surprise your family with a vacation this year? These are family-friendly top 20 best places to visit in India to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Each place offers activities for all family members. Start planning your trip today.
India has many different places to visit for families looking for adventure, relaxation, or history. From the snowy mountains in the north to the sunny beaches in the South, India’s diverse geography offers something for every traveler. Here are the top 20 best places to visit in India with your family:
- Kerala: God’s Own Country
- Mumbai: The City That Never Sleeps
- Andaman And Nicobar: Exotic Islands
- Himachal Pradesh: Serenely Adventurous
- Kashmir: A Heaven On Earth
- Rajasthan: The Royal Land
- Goa
- Delhi, Agra, Jaipur: The Golden Triangle
- Kutch, Gujarat
- Nainital Uttarakhand
- Jim Corbett National Park: Nature And Wildlife
- Haridwar and Rishikesh: Spiritual Lands
- Coorg, Ooty, Kodaikanal: Kashmir Of South India
- Puri, Architectural Rich
- Banaras: The Holy City
- Chadar, Ladakh
- Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Gangtok, Sikkim
- Shillong, Meghalaya
- Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
1. Kerala-Gods Own Country
Kerala is one of the best places to visit with your family in India. It has coconut trees, backwaters, and beautiful views. You can relax and enjoy nature with your parents and children.
Must-visit places include Munnar, Alleppey backwaters, Kovalam beaches, Thekkady, and Wayanad. Make sure to choose Ayurveda centers that are approved by the Ministry of Tourism.
The best time to visit is from September to April. Recommended hotels are Emerald Resort and Diga Vista Resort. Enjoy staying in a houseboat and watching the snake boat race.
2. Mumbai: The City That Never Sleeps
Mumbai is a bustling city known for its Bollywood celebrities and is a great place for a family vacation in India. The city never sleeps and has many attractions that draw tourists.
Some must-visit places include Siddhi Vinayak Mandir, Gateway of India, Bandra for street shopping, Mannat, Juhu for its chapati, and nearby places like Lonavala, Shirdi, and Nashik.
It’s best to visit Mumbai between September and March to avoid the high humidity of summer.
Recommended hotels are Ginger Mumbai and Atlas Grand Hotel Mumbai. Don’t miss visiting the Gateway of India and Elephant Caves.
3. Andaman And Nicobar: Exotic Islands
Also known as Kaalapani, now a popular tourist spot in India, offers a great family vacation. The place has tropical beaches, rainforests, and an active volcano, making it an exciting destination.
Must-see spots include Havelock Islands for scuba diving, Cellular Jail for a light and sound show, and Andaman Water Sports Complex for various water activities.
Avoid areas with many tribes, like the Nicobar Islands. The best time to visit is from mid-November to April.
Recommended hotels are Hotel Value Luxury Stay Andaman and Shagrilas Beach Resort. Enjoy activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.
4. Himachal Pradesh: Serenely Adventurous
Traveling with your family to Himachal Pradesh can offer a lot of fun activities like river rafting, trekking, and enjoying scenic views. It’s a great place for families with kids, where you can relax in the sun and enjoy the fresh mountain air while your kids try activities like paragliding, mountaineering, and jeep safaris. Himachal Pradesh is a budget-friendly destination in India that you should consider visiting with your family.
Visit Manali and Rohtang Pass for snow-capped mountains, Shimla for beautiful scenery, McLeodganj for trekking, Kufri for Yak rides, and Solang Valley for adventure sports.
Wear warm clothes. The best times to go are in Spring (April-June) and Winter (November-February). You can stay at Shimla Nature Ville or Hotel Amar Villa. Enjoy activities like paragliding, trekking, and hiking.
5. Kashmir: A Heaven On Earth
Kashmir is a great place to visit with your family in December. The beautiful scenery makes it a favorite spot for travelers of all ages. This place is often called the mini Switzerland of India and is popular among tourists from around the world.
It’s a must-visit destination where you can relax in the Flower Valley and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Kashmir is a top choice for family vacations in India, offering a variety of activities for all ages.
Some recommended places to visit are Srinagar for houseboats and Shikara rides, Gulmarg for skiing, and Pahalgam for Baisaran Valley. You can take skiing classes at the Ski Institute, and the best times to visit are in spring (April to June) and winter (December to March) for skiing.
Recommended hotels include Taj Palace Houseboat, Hotel Alpine K2 Pahalgam, and Hotel Mount View. Activities to enjoy in Kashmir include shikara riding, Gondola rides, skiing, and river rafting.
6. Rajasthan: The Royal Land
Royal Rajasthan is one of the best places to go on a family trip to India. The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels train lets you see deserts, palaces, wildlife, and Havelis in Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Ranthambore, and Jaipur.
Don’t miss Udaipur for its royal feel, Jodhpur for Mehrangarh Fort, Chittorgarh for Rajputana history, and Jaipur for handicrafts. The train also goes to Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh. You can choose where to go.
The best time to visit is from October to March. You can stay at The Atara or Hotel Pol Haveli. Visit lakes and temples and experience wildlife.
7. Goa
Many people are surprised to see Goa on this list of family holiday destinations. Despite its reputation as a hippie paradise, Goa offers a variety of activities for families, including adventure sports, historic forts and churches, beautiful beaches, luxury accommodations, and delicious seafood.
Popular attractions include Dudhsagar Falls, Fort Aguada, and the Museum of Christian Art. Families can enjoy activities like a wildlife safari at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and visiting museums and beaches.
The best time to visit is from mid-November to mid-February. The easiest way to reach Goa is by flight, but you can also take a train, although it may be slower. Recommended places to stay include The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort Goa and The Park Calangute Goa.
Don’t miss trying local dishes like Pork Vindaloo and Goan Fish Curry at restaurants like Ourem 88 and 32nd Milestone. Renting a scooter is a good idea for exploring Goa.
8. Delhi, Agra, Jaipur: The Golden Triangle
Start your India tour with the Golden Triangle, which includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. These cities have famous historical sites like India Gate, Red Fort, Qutab Minar, Taj Mahal, and Hawa Mahal. Stay at hotels like the Taj Palace, Ajanta Hotel, or The Grand Uddhav. Explore temples, forts, and monuments during your visit.
Delhi has something for every traveler, from ancient Mughal monuments to modern malls. You can explore bustling bazaars in Old Delhi and unique restaurants in New Delhi. Don’t miss visiting India Gate, Connaught Place, Old Delhi for Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid, and Janpath or Sarojini Market for shopping.
Next, you can visit the vibrant city of Jaipur, known for its beautiful architecture and handmade souvenirs. The city is influenced by the royal Rajput culture and has a rich history of art and culture. Don’t miss seeing Hawa Mahal for its unique architecture, Nahargarh Fort for a great city view, Johri Bazaar for beautiful gemstone jewelry, and Chokhi Dhani for an authentic Rajasthani experience.
Visit the city of love, Agra, and see the beautiful Taj Mahal with your family. The Taj Mahal is a famous tourist spot in India located by the Yamuna River. It took 22 years to build this symmetrical monument, which is known worldwide as a symbol of love.
Don’t miss out on visiting Fatehpur Sikri for glassware, Agra Fort for its architecture, and Agra markets for inlay work and traditional carpets. Remember, the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, so plan your trip accordingly. The best time to visit the Golden Triangle, which includes Agra, is from October to March.
9. Kutch, Gujarat
Kutch is the largest district in Gujarat and a top family holiday destination in India. It has 900 villages and the mesmerizing White Desert Rann of Kutch, offering an authentic cultural experience and teaching kids about India’s diversity.
The best time to visit is from November to February. The nearest airport is Bhuj Airport, and you can reach Kutch by bus or train from any major city in India.
There are luxury camps like The Village Resort Mandvi and Rann Homestay for accommodation. Don’t miss trying famous foods like stir-fried vegetables and Kutchi Kadhi.
10. Nainital Uttarakhand
Nainital is famous for Naini Lake, Snow View Point, and Mall Road. It is often called the ”Lake District of India” and is a beautiful place for families to relax and have fun. Naini Lake is the main attraction, offering boat rides and nice walks.
The hills around Nainital are great for short hikes, horseback riding, and enjoying views from places like Snow View and Tiffin Top. The town has a charmingly old-fashioned feel, busy markets, and lots of things to do.
Nainital is a great place for families to have a memorable and diverse experience. The best time to visit is all year round.
11. Jim Corbett National Park: Nature And Wildlife
Jim Corbett is a popular wildlife resort that many tourists visit all year. It is a great holiday spot for families. You should visit Naini Lake for a peaceful boat ride, Govind Ballabh Pant Zoo to see animals like Siberian tigers and wolves, and Tiffin Top for a view of the Himalayas.
Don’t forget to try fresh corn on the way. For an adventurous wildlife tour, visit Jim Corbett. You can stay in the jungle at the resort and maybe see a tiger! The best times to visit are March to June, September to November for Nainital, and November to June for Jim Corbett National Park.
12. Haridwar and Rishikesh: Spiritual Lands
Planning a religious and fun family trip this year? Consider visiting Haridwar and Rishikesh. These places are great for family vacations in India. You can bathe in the Ganges to cleanse your sins and walk on the Laxman Jhula bridge with your kids.
Rishikesh offers adventure activities. These places are ideal for family trips in the summer due to their peaceful atmosphere and pleasant weather. Must-visit attractions include the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, the Laxman Jhula bridge, adventure sports in Rishikesh, and the evening Maha Aarti at Har-ki-Pauri Ghat.
Keep in mind that alcohol and non-vegetarian food are not available in these holy cities. The best time to visit is from February to June and August to October.
Recommended hotels are Hotel Mayur, Hotel Queen, and Hotel Trishul. Don’t miss visiting Rajaji National Park and Har ki Pauri Ghat.
13. Coorg, Ooty, Kodaikanal: Kashmir Of South India
Planning a trip to the South for a peaceful and beautiful vacation? Coorg, Ooty, and Kodaikanal are great choices. These places offer green hills, forests, rivers, and lakes, along with pleasant weather. They are ideal for a relaxing holiday with friends.
Coorg, also known as the Kashmir of Karnataka, is a beautiful place in the Western Ghats. It has wildlife sanctuaries, a national park, sunset points, waterfalls, and coffee plantations. It’s a great place to visit with family.
Some must-visit places are Raja’sRaja’s Seat for a beautiful sunset view, Abbey Falls, and Bylakuppe near Kushalanagar, which is a large Tibetan settlement. In winter, the temperature can drop below 8 degrees, so it’s best to wear warm clothes. The best time to visit Coorg is from October to June.
Ooty is a popular hill station in the South known as the queen of hill stations for its beautiful scenery. Highlights include well-kept green lawns, rare plants, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Must-visit spots are the Botanical Garden, with a 20 million-year-old fossilized tree, and the Lake Garden, with a fiberglass dome. Another attraction is the high-altitude deer park. In winter, temperatures can drop to 5 degrees or lower, so it is best to bring warm clothes.
Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station with rocks, forests, and meadows that make it charming. It has become popular as a peaceful retreat from city life. It is a great place to visit with family in October.
Don’t miss climbing the rocks and visiting Coaker’s Walk for amazing views. Remember to be careful on steep trails, especially with children. The best times to visit are in spring (April to June) and winter (September to November).
14: Puri: Architectural Rich
Puri in Orissa is famous for Raghurajpur Artist Village, Sri Jagannath Puri Temple, Puri Beach, and Markandeswara Temple. It is a sacred place for pilgrims and a great spot for families due to its beautiful beaches.
The Jagannath Temple is not only a spiritual place but also a learning opportunity for kids about India’s religious history. Families can enjoy the sunny Puri Beach, water activities, and the nearby Chilika Lake, which is home to many birds. The best time to visit is from July to March.
15. Banaras: The Holy City
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is the oldest city in the world. It is located by the holy river Ganga and is a popular destination for a religious experience. The city has been a symbol of spirituality and mysticism for thousands of years, captivating tourists with its magical chants and rituals.
Varanasi has a vibrant atmosphere and is considered one of the best tourist places in India for families. Some must-visit attractions include Jnana Vapi, a well believed to be dug by Lord Shiva, a boat ride along the Ganges river, the Kashi Vishwanath temple with its gold-plated towers, and the Ramnagar Fort, which houses a museum displaying vintage cars and royal palkis.
Visitors can also shop for Banarasi Silk Saris at the Banaras Emporium. The city, with its temples, streets, and riverbanks, will entice you to explore further. Plan your itinerary based on the time you have available.
The best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March. Recommended hotels include Alka Hotel and Stay Banaras. Activities to do in Varanasi include visiting historical forts and experiencing the evening rituals at the ghats.
16. Chadar, Ladakh
Chadar in India is a top holiday spot for adventure-loving families, especially in winter. Known as the Frozen River trek, Chadar is located in Zanskar at 11,400 ft. The freezing temperatures, icy surroundings, and solitude create an exhilarating experience for travelers. Not for the faint-hearted, but those who visit gain new perspectives.
Key attractions include Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and Tsomo Paldar. Activities include trekking to Pangong Lake, mountain biking, eco camping at Tsermang, and attending Ladakh festivals.
The best time to visit is January and February. Reach Chilling after flying to Leh for scenic views before starting the Chadar trek. Accommodation options include The Golden Palms Hotel And Spa, JP Hotel and Resorts, and Park Inn by Radisson. Popular food choices are Thukpa and Butter Tram Chutagi.
Recommended eateries are Krishna Vaishno Dhaba, Pincer Vegetarian Foods, Vishal Vaishno Dhaba, and Radha Ki Rasoi. Remember to carry enough water for the high altitude.
17. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is famous for its Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, and Batasia Loop. The town has beautiful mountains and tea gardens, making it a great place for families to relax.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fun train ride for all ages. Visitors can see colonial buildings, visit monasteries, and watch the sunrise from Tiger Hill.
Darjeeling is a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure for everyone in the family. The best times to visit are February to March and September to December.
18. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Families love visiting Gangtok for attractions like the Nathula Pass, MG Road, Tsongmo Lake, and more.
The city offers a mix of traditional and modern experiences, with activities like riding the ropeway cable car for stunning views, exploring monasteries such as the Enchey Monastery, and visiting places like Banjhakri Falls and flower shows.
The bustling MG Road is perfect for shopping and trying local food. Gangtok is a great destination for families to enjoy all year round.
19. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is famous for Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and Laitlum Canyons. It is known as the ”Scotland of the East” and attracts families with its hills, misty landscapes, and waterfalls.
Umiam Lake is a beautiful spot for boating and kayaking, offering fun for all ages. Shillong has a rich tribal culture, vibrant markets, and living root bridges nearby, making it a great destination for a family vacation. The best time to visit is from September to May.
20. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Tirupati is famous for the Sri Venkateswara Temple and other attractions like Akasaganga Teertham and Silathoranam. Families visit Tirupati for spiritual blessings and to strengthen their faith.
The beautiful hills and Talakona Waterfall provide a peaceful retreat for families to enjoy and connect. The Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park nearby offers an educational experience with its variety of plants and animals.
Tirupati is a perfect mix of spirituality and family-friendly fun. The best time to visit is from September to March.
In conclusion, India has many unique places to visit with your family. If you’ve found the right place, plan a trip to India, pack your bags, and go on a trip with your loved ones. Explore the locations and create priceless memories to cherish forever. Enjoy your holidays!