In this fast-paced & sedentary lifestyle, we often overlook sharing personal space with our family & kids. They may not express their concerns as they understand your professional commitments. But there are better approaches to lead your life. It would be best if you take a break from your work & figure out the best family holiday destinations in India to make yourself & your loved ones happy.
One must know that holidays are not just for having thrilling experiences, having fun, or exploring adventure activities. What matters is you get a respite from your strenuous work deadlines, & get a chance to be at peace for some time. Searching for the best family resorts in India for a convenient staycation is essential.
So why head for foreign trips when India is brimmed with diverse cultures, & natural wonders, welcoming its tourists with open hearts to explore them? But what becomes a challenge is searching for the top places to visit with family in India. Well, nothing to worry about, as we bring the checklist of the best travel destinations in India.
25 Best Family Holiday Destinations in India
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
If you plan a family vacation in India, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh is worth visiting with its divine atmosphere, listening to the ringing temple bells on the ghats, giving a holistic ambience. Imagine spending quality time at the ghats of the river Ganges with your loved ones. No doubt, Varanasi is indeed a spiritual gem to soothe your soul.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Top attractions: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dhamek Stupa, Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Activities to do: Visiting temples, spending time at the ghats of river Ganges, & exploring Ramnagar Fort.
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Railway Junction & Kashi Railway Station
2. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is the best place to visit in Rajasthan, as the weather here is charming for travelling. Here, you can enjoy picnicking, exploring the spectacular views & boat riding at Nakki Lake with your family. Mount Abu is one of the best places in India for family trips.
- Best time to visit: July to February
- Top attractions: Nakki Lake, Toad Rock, Dilwara Temples, & Sunset Point.
- Activities to do: Boating at Nakki Lake, trekking, camping, & sightseeing.
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Abu Road Railway Station
3. Puri, Odisha
Puri is a divine place in Odisha, counted among the Char Dham sites, which makes it the best holiday destination in India for families & kids. This holy place is worth exploring for its tropical climate & the famous Jagannath Temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The temple attracts pilgrims to become part of the chariot festival ride. At this time, chariots of each deity, including Balram or Balbhadra (elder brother of Krishna), Subhadra (sister of Krishna), & Jagannath (Krishna), are beautifully decorated.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Top attractions: Shree Jagannath Temple, Ramachandi Temple, Shree Gundicha Temple, & Golden Beach.
- Activities to do: Visiting temples & enjoying great time with family at Golden Beach.
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Puri Railway Station
4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali comes as one of the cheapest & the best travel destinations in Himachal Pradesh. This charming hill station welcomes tourists for its stocked attractions & adventure sports. With its gifted natural charm & unmatched beauty, it is a beautiful travel spot that deserves to be on the travel bucket list of every voyager.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Top attractions: Hadimba Devi Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Jogini Falls, & Naggar Castle.
- Activities to do: Paragliding, river rafting, camping, hot air balloon ride, ATV ride, Igloo stay, ziplining, ropeway ride, skiing, & horse riding.
- Nearest Airport: Kullu Bhuntar Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
5. Lonavala, Maharashtra
Among many of the best places in Maharashtra is Lonavala. Nestled in the Western Ghats, this place is a heavenly travel destination. It is decked with tourist attractions, including historic caves, pristine lakes, & waterfalls. Besides this, Lonavala is also best suited for adventure activities like trekking & hiking.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Top attractions: Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Visapur Fort, Bhushi Dam, Lonavala Lake, Ekvira Aai Temple, & Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum.
- Activities to do: Visiting the famous Ekvira Aai Temple, exploring caves, & boating at Lonavala Lake, & watching wax figures of celebrities.
- Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport & Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Lonavala Railway Station
6. Shillong, Meghalaya
The capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong, is one of India’s best places to visit with family. The place has beautiful natural attractions, scenic vistas, lush greenery, manicured gardens, & impressive waterfalls. It is best known for its ancient traditions, & is popularly called the Abode of Clouds.
- Best time to visit: September to May
- Top attractions: Ward’s Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Mawlynnong, Mawsynram, Shillong Peak, & Lady Hydari Park.
- Activities to do: Visiting museums, exploring Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, & experiencing Shillong View Point from Laitkor Point.
- Nearest Airport: Umroi Airport or Shillong Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
7. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Srinagar is famously called heaven on earth and is the most apparent choice for honeymooners and family vacationers. This beautiful capital city of Jammu & Kashmir has scenic vistas that capture visitors’ attention. With lovely weather, Srinagar is undoubtedly the best retreat to escape from the bustling city life.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Top attractions: Dal Lake, Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal, Sinthan Top, & Shalimar Bagh.
- Activities to do: Boating at Dal Lake, shopping for souvenirs, exploring the floral gardens, sightseeing, & enjoying the delicious local cuisines.
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station & Udhampur Railway Station
8. Wayanad, Kerala
If you are searching for the top family vacation in India, Wayanad, in Kerala, is one of the top picks. The place attracts tourists for its luxurious resorts, tea plantations, historic caves, splendid waterfalls, exotic wildlife, & natural elements. It is a must-place for wildlife lovers who can spot wild animals like leopards, elephants, & bears.
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Top attractions: Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak, Thirunelli Temple, Edakkal Caves, Soochippara Falls, Pookot Lake, & Kanthanpara Waterfall.
- Activities to do: Exploring the beautiful waterfalls, boating at Pookot Lake, & rafting in Kuruvadweep.
- Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (Calicut) International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station
9. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie counts among the much-preferred travel destinations in Uttarakhand for family vacationers. Nestled at 7000 above sea level, it attracts tourists with its convenient atmosphere & natural hill beauty. Mussoorie is popularly called a gateway to the Gangotri & Yamunotri shrines.
- Best time to visit: September To June
- Top attractions: Kempty Falls, Lal Tibba, Company Garden, Cloud’s End, Jharipani Falls, Mussoorie Lake, Camel’s Back Road, Bhatta Falls, & Benog Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Activities to do: Paragliding, hiking, trekking, boating, fishing, rock climbing, horse riding, mountain biking, & photography.
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
10. Kutch, Gujarat
Kutch is the optimal choice if you are looking for an offbeat travel destination in India. Home to more than 900 villages, this largest district of Gujarat is famous for its excellent white desert, also called Rann of Kutch. Here, you can enjoy a memorable camel ride.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Top attractions: Rann of Kutch, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Dholavira, Kutch Museum, Kala Dungar, & Koteshwar Mahadev Temple.
- Activities to do: Sightseeing, exploring wildlife, & seeking blessings of Lord Shiva at Koteshwar Mahadev Temple.
- Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj Railway Station
11. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Covered with a carpet of lush greenery & surrounded by majestic mountains, Ooty is a worth-visiting travel destination in Tamil Nadu. The astonishing views here capture the attention of tourists. It is a must-visit to spend vacation with family & kids.
- Best time to visit: October to June
- Top attractions: Botanical Garden, Pykara Lake, Doddabetta Viewpoint, Rose Garden, & St. Stephen’s Church.
- Activities to do: Toy train ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty, camping at Avalanche Lake, boating at Ooty Lake, admiring the natural beauty, & visiting tea museum.
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam Railway Station
12. Coorg, Karnataka
If you find visiting North India, & watching mountains too repetitive, then time to switch your choice to South India this time. Coorg, in Karnataka, is the best place to plan a joyous family vacation. The place is famous for its coffee plantation, cascading waterfalls, misty landscapes, & beautiful green hills, ancient forts, & Gothic-style churches.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Top attractions: Nisargadhama, Sri Omkareshwara Temple, Irupu Falls, Pushpagiri, Madikeri Fort, & Abbey Falls.
- Activities to do: Visiting musical fountains, experiencing hilltop views, & enjoying jungle safari at Nagarhole National Park.
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station
13. Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Port Blair, in Andaman & Nicobar Islands, is great for planning a long weekend holiday with family. It stocks many museums where you can take your kids to. Explore the marine life, & enjoy the sea breeze while strolling at Marina Park.
- Best time to visit: October to May
- Top attractions: Cellular Jail (Prison-turned museum), Japanese Bunkers, Chatham Saw Mill, Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Corbyn’s Cove, Marina Park And Aquarium, & Aamkunj Beach.
- Activities to do: Enjoying at beaches, visiting the prison-turned museum Cellular Jail, admiring aquatic life, kayaking, scuba diving, & snorkelling.
- Nearest Airport: Port Blair Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station
14. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur is the famous Pink City with a rich cultural heritage, ancient forts & palaces. It is one of the top-notch places to visit in Rajasthan with your family. The city is worth visiting for its manicured gardens, museums, unique courtyards, & fabulous architectural marvels.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Top attractions: Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort, & Jaigarh Fort.
- Activities to do: Exploring forts & palaces, elephant rides, & boating.
- Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Jaipur Junction Railway Station
15. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh is a famous travel destination known for its erotic carvings, & temples of Hindu, Jain, & Buddhists. Besides temples, the other top attractions include Benisagar Dam, Jain Museum, Archaeological Museum, & much more. Check out for the best resorts in India to confirm your staycation in Khajuraho.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Top attractions: Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Chitragupta Temple, Adinath Temple, Jagdamba Temple, Raneh Falls, & more.
- Activities to do: Exploring numerous temples, visiting museums, & watching waterfalls.
- Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Khajuraho Railway Station
16. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill town in Tamil Nadu. Popularly referred to as Princess of Hill Stations, it is among the top travel destinations to visit with your family. You can enjoy scenic vistas, & other top attractions here. If you want to visit Kodaikanal, you can search for a luxurious hill resort in India.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Top attractions: Kurinji Andavar Temple, Coakers Walk, Kodaikanal Lake, Vattakanal Waterfalls, & Chettiar Park.
- Activities to do: Sightseeing, watching waterfalls, visiting temples, & enjoying boating at Kodaikanal Lake.
- Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road Railway Station, Palani Railway Station, & Dindigul Railway Junction.
17. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is an evergreen travel destination that still attracts tourist footfall with its scenic natural beauty, shimmering lakes, & other multitude of attractions. You should visit this beautiful place in Uttarakhand during summers or winters with your loved ones.
- Best time to visit: April to June & September to October
- Top attractions: Hanuman Garhi, Naini Peak, Jama Masjid Mosque, & Nainital Zoo.
- Activities to do: Boating, ropeway ride, trekking, & birdwatching.
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
18. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Want to experience the fantastic view of Mount Kanchenjunga? Then welcome to Darjeeling, & share many more tourist attractions it stocks. There are many things to do with your family in this place. Not to forget, Darjeeling holds importance for its tea gardens, Buddhist Monasteries, & lot more.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Top attractions: Tea estates, Bhutia Busty Monastery, Mount Kanchenjunga, British-Era Mall, Batasia Loop, & Rock Garden.
- Activities to do: Toy train ride, visiting the Buddhist Monastery, sipping local Darjeeling tea, feasting on momos, spotting the Red Panda, & other animals.
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
19. Gangtok, Sikkim
The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, does make it to the list of top holiday destinations in India. The place is captivating with its scenic natural beauty, unique monasteries, pleasant climate, & much more. Moreover, you can also experience adventure activities here.
- Best time to visit: September to June
- Top attractions: Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten, Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, Rumtek Monastery, Tinkitam Rayong, & Tsomgo Lake.
- Activities to do: Shopping for souvenirs at Lal Bazaar, visiting the ancient Enchey Monastery, mountain biking, river rafting, skiing, Yak safari, & cable ride.
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
20. Chadar, Ladakh
If you like visiting cool places, Chadar in Ladakh should be on your top priority list. It is a fantastic place to visit during the winter season. Here, you can do so many adventure-activities including trekking. Note that this latter adventure sport is not for faint-hearted ones. Please avoid it, if you are not comfortable.
- Best time to visit: January & February
- Top attractions: Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, & Tsomo Paldar.
- Activities to do: Trekking, mountain biking, eco camping, & becoming part of Ladakh festivals.
- Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Jammu Tawi Railway Station
21. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla had been a famous summer retreat for Britishers. Like Manali, & Nainital, Shimla is also one of the evergreen & apparent picks when it comes to holiday destinations in India. Do visit this place, & return to your hometown with cherishing memories.
- Best time to visit: March to June & July to September
- Top attractions: Jakhoo Temple, Shimla Heritage Museum, The Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church, & more.
- Activities to do: Visiting the famous Jakhoo Hanuman Temple, shopping at Mall Road, enjoying the toy train ride, & watching the wax figures of celebrities at Johnnie’s Wax Museum.
- Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
22. Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey is one of the famous travel destinations in Kerala to plan a family vacation. There are many fascinating things you will love to do here. We would also like to add that Alleppey is an ideal holiday destination for honeymooners.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Top attractions: Pathiramanal, Basilica of St. Mary, Vembanad backwaters, Marari Beach, & Krishnapuram Palace.
- Activities to do: Boating on the backwaters, riding in a houseboat, watching sunset, & exploring the Sea View Park.
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station
23. New Delhi, Delhi
When searching for holiday destinations in India, it is impossible to overlook the heart of India, Delhi, or New Delhi. This metropolitan city has in stock for all kinds of travellers, ranging from sacred sites to educational institutions like India Habitat Centre, Nehru Planetarium, & so on.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Top attractions: Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Lotus Temple, Lodhi Garden, India Habitat Centre, Nehru Planetarium, Delhi Zoological Park, & more.
- Activities to do: Sightseeing, shopping, watching movies, exploring infotainment sites, tasting local street foods, etc.
- Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station, Old Delhi Railway Station & Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.
24. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai is one of the major cities in Maharashtra, packed with numerous tourist attractions. The very utterance of the name of this city makes our mind click on the famous Bollywood industry, Marine Drive, Gateway of India, & many more.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Top attractions: Juhu Beach, Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Elephanta Caves, Kanheri Caves, & more.
- Activities to do: Wildlife sighting at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, exploring the Buddhist Sanctums at Kanheri Caves, Ferry ride at Gateway of India, & watching movies.
- Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) & Bombay Central Railway Station.
25. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Last on the list is Tawang. This place is in Arunachal Pradesh, & is very famous for attracting tourist footfall for Buddhist temples, massive lush green mountains, & natural beauty. People here are amiable & kind-hearted. The lovely climate is also an additional reason to make your journey memorable.
- Best time to visit: March, May, September & October
- Top attractions: Madhuri Lake, Sela Pass, Tawang War Memorial, Tawang Buddhist Monastery, Gorsam Chorten, & Pangateng Tso Lake.
- Activities to do: Hiking at Gorichen Peak, Shopping at Tibetan Settlement Market, Strolling around Madhuri Lake, Meditating at Taktsang Gompa, & watching Nuranang Waterfalls.
- Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport
- Nearest Railway Station: Rangapara Railway Station
Conclusion
So, this ends our list of top family holiday destinations in India. The places mentioned in this blog have everything to provide to all kinds of travellers, including history buffs, adventure seekers, nature explorers, & those looking for an escape from bustling city life. We suggest you book jüSTa Hotels & Resorts to ensure your luxury staycation. It is a multi-chained hospitality company with branches at various locations in India.