Must-Visit Summer Destinations in India for Kids and Families

Summer is here, and summer vacations are also about to start in schools. Are you planning to go somewhere with your family and kids in summer vacation? If yes, then in this post, you will know about many such places which are famous all over the country for spending summer vacation.

Our country, India, has many such places which are known for a peaceful and memorable family vacation. From the serene hill stations of Himachal to the beautiful beaches of Goa and from the wildlife adventures of Uttarakhand to the backwaters of Kerala, you will find many such places which will make your vacation enjoyable and memorable – there is no doubt about it.

As you know, traveling with kids can be a challenge. But if you choose the right destination and plan it properly, then this trip can be enjoyable. In simple words, choosing the right destination matters a lot.

Whether you are looking for adventure, nature, relaxation, or a little bit of everything, India has no dearth of kid-friendly summer vacation destinations. There are many places that promise adventure and relaxation for people of all ages.

So let’s explore this blog post together and find out which are the best places in India to spend summer vacations with kids. We have handpicked some of the best places in this blog that offer a perfect mix of fun and learning for kids – and relaxation for parents.

So what are you thinking? Pack your bags, load up your sunscreen, and get ready for a blissful and enjoyable summer vacation.

Top Places to Go on a Vacation with Kids in India

Vacationing with kids is fun, but selecting the right holiday destination can be troublesome. India is a diverse country with vast options to explore. However, traveling can sometimes become uncomfortable, especially when you are traveling with children.  Due to this, we have to settle for less by planning a holiday with kids at a nearby location or a place we have already visited. But this way, you will miss out on so many beautiful things this incredible country has to offer us. So, what should you do? We suggest you avoid planning trips to the same repeated or monotonous destinations. Your kids deserve to see the true colors of this iconic country.

Here are the best holiday destinations in India for families, where your kids can spend their summer vacation:

1) Kashmir, Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir is indeed a paradise for those who want to spend their summer vacation amidst nature’s beauty and scenic vistas. It is a perfect summer and family holiday destination in India. And people who want to see the true hues of this iconic travel destination must visit Kashmir in the summer season, which is from May to August. During summer, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, which is the perfect time to see the meadows, sparkling lakes, and beautiful hill stations. The best part is that the season offers a plethora of activities and adventures to experience. The cool breeze and scenic views rejuvenate your mind and soul. It is the perfect time to enjoy and relax in nature.

Summer is indeed the perfect time to plan Kashmir tours. Adventure seekers can indulge in hiking, trekking, wildlife safaris, camping, horseback riding, rock climbing, and much more. Similarly, families during their Kashmir tour can enjoy and unwind amidst the picturesque vistas of Kashmir.

Best Places to Visit in Kashmir: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Betaab Valley, Dal Lake, Sonmarg, Yusmarg.

Things To Do in Kashmir with Kids: Gondola Ride, Horse Ride, Trekking, Golfing, Skiing, Houseboat Stay

2) Amritsar, Punjab

Home to the iconic Golden Temple, Amritsar in Punjab is one of the top tourist destinations in India. This is the most significant pilgrimage destination for the Sikh community in India. For obvious reasons, every traveler, irrespective of their age, keeps Amritsar in their travel bucket list. This is the perfect place to travel with your kids, as it is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures. Your kids will not only indulge in spiritual activities but also get the opportunity to see the India-Pakistan Border retreat ceremony held every evening. Besides, visiting Jallianwala Bagh evokes a mix of emotions of sadness and remembrance of the heinous massacre.

From exploring the best attractions to knowing the history, your children will learn a lot about the country’s history and culture. Visiting the Sri Harmandir Sahib Ji (Golden Temple) teaches your kids about equality. The temple is the iconic symbol of peace and equality. Its entry gate from all four directions shows its vastness and acceptance of every culture with wide open arms. Apart from this, your children would love to relish the street delicacies of Amritsar. The city is famous for its scrumptious and mouth-watering cuisine.

Best Places to Visit: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Partition Museum, Mata Temple, Baba Atal Tower, and Amrit Sarovar.

Things to Do in Amritsar with Kids: Visit the Golden Temple, Enjoy Recreational Ceremony at Wagah Border, Food Tour, Visit Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum.

3) Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali in Himachal Pradesh is one of the best holiday destinations in India for families. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, Manali is a place to relax amidst nature as well as indulge in adventurous activities. Gifted by the almighty Himalayas, Manali in recent years has evolved as the most beloved place for young people. Travelers who seek extended holidays to unwind amidst nature choose Manali. Planning a vacation with kids in Manali will let you have a thrilling experience. Your kids will love to explore nature’s beauty along with enjoying adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, bungee jumping, and much more.

The main spots for adventure activities in Manali are Rohtang Valley and Solang Valley, which are just a few kilometres from Manali. Travelers in large numbers flock here to enjoy all adventure activities like paragliding, horse riding, skiing, zorbing, and ziplining. Apart from vacation and recreational activities, you can let your children indulge in spiritualism. There is an ancient wooden Hidimba Devi Temple. In every way, Manali is going to make your vacation a memorable trip for your kids.

Best Places to Visit in Manali: Solang Valley, Rohtang Valley, Hidimba Temple, Rohalla Waterfalls, Vashist Temple, and Hot Springs.

Things to Do with Kids in Manali: Paragliding, Trekking,

4) Majuli Island, Assam

Nestled on the banks of the River Brahmaputra in Assam, Majuli Island is the largest River Island in the world. This island is blessed with unmatched beauty and culture that will be a new experience for you and your kids. Indeed, Majuli Island is going to be the best trip for your kids. Your children would love to experience such a new thing in life. This will excite them, knowing the place doesn’t resemble any other location in India. It is one of its kind in the country. Your kids would love to explore the unparalleled beauty and a whole new culture in this place.

The island sprawls over an area of 352 sq. km, having two most important towns, Garamur and Kamalbari. Along with this, it has many small villages. People seeking serenity must come to Majuli Island in Assam. The place is an oasis of tranquillity, you will find an abundance of natural beauty, diverse culture, and serenity here. The residents of this famous tourist place in Assam are very kind and hospitable. They live in handmade bamboo huts. You can see them wearing colorful dresses and unique handcrafted masks. Your children would love to explore and experience such a different vibe in a place where they have never been. Spend some amazing time with your kids on this alluring island in Assam and make memories to cherish forever.

Best Places to Visit on Majuli Island: Kamlabari Satra, Dakhinpat Satra, Auniati Satra, Garamur,

Things to Do with Kids on Majuli Island: Birdwatching, Bicycle Tour, Village Tour, Pilgrimage, and Culture Tour.

5) Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

One of the best and most unique places you can choose for a summer vacation in India with kids is the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. Kutch is famous for its distinctive landscape and rich cultural heritage. It is said that Kutch in Gujarat is a year-round destination. Spread over 7500 sq. km of area, it is a great stretch of white salt. You and your children will be amazed to see the stretched sheet of white desert in Gujarat. Although it is salt but it looks like a white desert. Your children will never forget this unusual sight.

The stretch of white salt with a backdrop of the Aravali ranges makes it one of the most beautiful places to be. Camel rides are also available here, which will make your trip even more enjoyable for children. In the evening, you may enjoy the folk music and dance. It is one of the best ways to let your children experience the cultural diversity of India. Basically, Kutch is a fascinating holiday destination with a blend of rich heritage, scenic landscape, and vibrant traditions.

Best Places to Visit in Rann of Kutch: Dholavira, Bhuj, Vijay Vilas Palace, Sun Temple, Hodka Village, Kala Dungar, Dhardo Village.

Things to Do with Kids in Kutch: Wildlife Sanctuary, Camel Ride, Sightseeing of Bhuj, Relish Street Delicacies, Visit to the Highest Point of Kutch—Kala Dungar, and Explore Local Art and Craft.

6) Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

The next name on our list of the best summer vacation destinations in India you must visit with your kids is Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Jaisalmer is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Rajasthan. It is called the “Golden City” of India, famous for its gigantic forts, rich culture, and desert landscapes. Jaisalmer is known for its architecture and historical marvels, but today, it is also famous for the recreational activities it offers to its visitors. Hence, from solace seekers to adventure enthusiasts and romantic couples, Jaisalmer is the perfect tourist destination for every kind of traveler. With its unique blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and desert landscapes, Jaisalmer is a perfect holiday destination for families visiting with kids. Your children will have fun as well as educational experiences by visiting Jaisalmer. They will explore India’s only living fort and the Desert National Park and enjoy a Camel Safari.

Your children would love to enjoy a camel safari in the SAM Dunes. Summer is the perfect season for camping in the desert as well, which your children would love. Besides, you can teach your kids about the rich culture of this vast country.

Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer: Jaisalmer Fort, Gadsisar Lake, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Desert National Park.

Things to Do in Jaisalmer with Kids: Desert Safari, Explore Jaisalmer Fort, Wildlife Safari, Museum Visit, Camping

7) Darjeeling, West Bengal

Do your kids get fascinated by the toy train ride? If yes, Darjeeling is the place for them to spend their summer vacation. Darjeeling is a renowned hill station in the West Bengal state of India. The pleasant temperature of the area makes it one of the best summer holiday destinations in India. From mountains to lush greenery, tea gardens, monasteries, and Momo, your children will get a glimpse of all these in Darjeeling. Moreover, they will have a fun toy train ride moment that they will cherish forever. You can let your children learn about many things in Darjeeling, like the tea-making process in a factory, spotting a red panda in the zoo, and much more. They will also get Tibetan Cuisine to relish. Darjeeling is one of the best places to visit with kids in India. Its colonial architecture and peaceful Tibetan monasteries define its timeless charm. It offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and historical sites.

Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling: Peace Pagoda, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Ghoom Monastery, and Tiger Hill.

Things to Do in Darjeeling: Toy Train Ride, Monastery Tours, Wildlife Spotting

8) Bodh Gaya, Bihar

This summer vacation, set off on a delightful journey to Bodh Gaya in Bihar. Located in the infamous state of Bihar, Bodh Gaya is the place that boasts an incredible history that everyone must know. Hence, you should take your kids to this historical, religious, and religious place in Bihar. Bodh Gaya has significant importance in Buddhism. It is a sacred and religious place for both the Hindu and Buddhist communities. Gautam Buddha, under a tree, attained enlightenment in the same place. Today, that tree is a famous tourist attraction known as the Bodhi Tree. Along with this, you will see an array of temples and monasteries on the bank of the Phalgu River. There are a lot of things your children would love to see and learn about. It is a place of worship and great religious value not only for Indians but for people from all over the world. Hence, you should plan a trip to Bodh Gaya during this summer vacation.

Best Places to Visit in Bodh Gaya: Bodhi Tree, Great Buddha Statue, Thai Monastery, Sujatha Temple, Muchalinda Lake, Mangla Gauri Temple, Vishrupad Temple, Tibetan Refugee Market, and Pawaipuri.

Things to Do in Bodh Gaya with Kids: Great Buddha Statue, Climb 1000 Steps to Reach Brahmajuni, Shop at Tibetan Refugee Market

9) Puri, Odisha

One of the prominent Char Dham sites, Puri, is a famous pilgrimage destination in India. The center of attraction of this place is the Jagannath Temple, which is one of the Char Dham sites. Puri is located in Odisha, blessed with a serene beach. The spiritual capital of Odisha, Jagannath Puri, has a lot of architectural marvels to offer. Well, not only spiritual seekers, but Puri is a perfect holiday destination for history buffs and nature lovers. After visiting and seeking the blessing of Lord Jagannath, you can visit the serene beach to rejuvenate your soul. Besides, many ancient temples and buildings are a must-visit. The iconic Konark Sun Temple is also located near Puri. Your kids would love to explore the Chilika Lake, perfect for birdwatching. With so many sightseeing options and birdwatching experiences, Puri should be on your bucket list to travel with your kids.

Best Places to Visit in Puri: Puri Beach, Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Loknath Temple, Chilika Lake, and Raghurajpur Artist Village

Things to Do in Puri with Kids: Birdwatching at the Chilika Lake, Visiting Konark Temple, Enjoying Puri Beach

10) Ooty, Tamil Nadu

One of the top summer destinations in India is Ooty. Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu state, Ooty is the favorite holiday destination in India. Ooty is the perfect destination to escape the scorching heat of the Indian subcontinent. Once, it was the summer capital of the Madras Presidency. The pleasant weather and serene landscapes make Ooty the “Queen of Hills.” This summer vacation spot in Tamil Nadu offers you a plethora of recreational activities and options to relax. Whether you seek a leisure summer vacation with family or an adventurous trip for your children, Ooty should be your next summer holiday destination.

Best Places to Visit in Ooty: Ooty Lake, Rose Garden, St. Stephen’s Church, Botanical Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Elk Hill Murugan Temple, Wax World Museum

Things to Do in Ooty with Kids: Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Explore Flora in the Botanical Garden, Boating at Ooty Lake

India is a vast country offering a diverse range of destinations perfect for a summer vacation with kids. From snow-clad mountains to verdant terrain, glistering sandy beaches, and religious places, India has got you a vast number of options to choose from for your next family trip in India. We would love to hear from your side to know about your experience at any of these summer holiday destinations in India for kids and families. Tell us which cities you have already explored with your children and which ones you are planning to visit this year. And, if you need any assistance to book summer holiday packages for kids and families, feel free to contact us.