Planning a holiday with your family is no less than a task. You have to keep a check on the weather, road conditions, and travel time. You also need to look into what kind of food is available at the place and what activities are on offer for you and your family. But the joy of going on family vacations in India is something else, filled with tranquillity and unique experiences that each destination has to offer. For family vacations where you can immerse in nature, relax away from the crowds, and indulge in wholesome activities, we present you with a list of the finest destinations across India. Read on and bookmark this blog post for later. 

Best places for family vacations in India

Wayanad, Kerala

A panoramic view of Chembra Peak from Zostel Homes Wayanad (Karapuzha).

A little slide of paradise in Kerala, Wayanad is brimming with lush plantations, cascading waterfalls, ancient caves, and a wide range of wildlife. Known for its wildlife reserves and Nilgiri hills, the place has some hidden trails and treks leading to hidden gems of the region. And with a slow-paced lifestyle, delicious cuisine, and nature all around, Wayanad is one of the best places in India for a family trip. You would be glad to know that we have not just one but 3 stunning Zostel Homes in different regions of Wayanad– Thirunelly, Vythiri, and Karapuzha. You can check them out here.

Things to do in Wayanad on a family vacation: 

Visit Thirunelly Temple, go on Tholpetty and Nagarhole safari, Bamboo Rafting in Kuruva Dweep, visit Iruppu Falls, explore Edakkal Caves, and visit spice gardens. 

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Sitting high above the southern plains, Coonoor is a small and quiet Nilgiri hill station. On a family vacation to Coonoor, you can chill in the cool climate, enjoy the silence of the countryside, and marvel at mountain views. To help you with just that, there are some fantastic heritage properties and guesthouses best suited for families.

Things to do in Coonoor on a family vacation: 

Visit Highfield Tea Estate, Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, and Dolphin’s Nose. Explore Ketti Valley, Hidden Valley, Law’s Fall, and Keystone Foundation. 

Pedong, West Bengal

A golden Buddha statue in Pedong, West Bengal

Now, you may not have heard of Pedong, but it is among the lesser-known harbours of West Bengal. Closely located to Kalimpong and Sikkim, Pedong has lush meadows, sprouting fields, gurgling streams, and a night sky full of stars. A family vacation to this pretty village is marked by a slow-paced lifestyle, organic produce, and scenic views. And the best part? We have a humble Zostel Homes, sitting gracefully in the midst of a forested hilltop. Check it out here.

Things to do in Pedong on a family vacation: 

Visit Sangchen Dorjee Monastery, Damsung Fort, Ramitey Viewpoint, Tinchuley Viewpoint, and Cross Hill.

Laida, Himachal Pradesh

Breathtaking cedar forest, high-altitude lake, and rhododendron forest rule over the landscape of this gem in Kullu’s Tirthan Valley. Recently appeared on travellers’ maps, Laida is a good pick when you’re looking for the best place for a family trip in India. A day here starts with sipping tea, followed by hiking to scenic villages, exploring Jalori Pass, and savouring delectable Himachali treats from roadside dhabas. And for a family vacation in Laida, we have a traditional homestay that features a Himachali home and a private mudhouse. Have a look at Zostel Homes Laida here. 

Things to do in Laida on a family vacation:

Visit Jalori Pass, hike to Serolsar Lake, try Himachali cuisine, explore Jibhi Waterfall, and indulge in countryside stillness. 

Bhor, Maharashtra

If you live in Mumbai or Pune, you’re in for a treat with a fantastic nature retreat in the foothills of Sahyadri. Bhor is a sleepy Marathi village with rolling hills, refreshing freshwater lakes, and loads of flora and fauna. It’s amongst the best places to visit in India with family as it opens a picturesque playground of hikes, nature trails, and scenic drives. And drum rolls, please! We have a luxurious chalet by the lake for you and your family. Check our Zostel Homes Bhor here. 

Things to do in Bhor on a family vacation:

Trek to Rajgar Fort and go on nature walks. Chill by the backwaters. Go on a scenic drive to Necklace Point and Bhatgar Dam. Try kayaking and gaze at the starry sky.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

A panaramic view of Shimla hills from Zostel Homes Shimla.

Okay, we know that you know about Shimla already! But you would be surprised to find that there is always something new to see around this pretty Himachali town. Just one hour from Shimla, there are plenty of Himalayan villages that are away from the crowd and offer tranquillity at their best— like Cheog, Theog, Mashobra, Fagu, Kotkhai, and Kotgarh. That’s why Shimla is amongst one of the top picks for a family vacation in India. And we have 4 amazing stays in and around Shimla that you can check out here. 

Things to do in Shimla on a family vacation: 

Take a walk down the Ridge, marvel at the Christ Church, offer prayers at Jakhoo Temple, drive to Kufri, and shop for local handicrafts

Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Sitting on Rajasthan’s highest mountain, Mount Abu is the only hill station in the state. It’s surrounded by green forests and is located pretty close to the Gujarat border. So, expect an exciting mix of Rajasthani and Gujarati cuisine while you’re here. It’s a hit amongst families from both states looking to beat the summer heat.

Things to do in Mount Abu on a family vacation: 

Explore Delwara Temples, visit Nakki Lake, hike to Guru Shikhar, and explore Mt Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.

Harabhag, Himachal Pradesh

A sylvan stream flowing through lush landscape of Harabhag.

If you’re looking for a family vacation in Himachal Pradesh with slow-paced life, greenery all around, and verdant hills, then Harabhag is the choice for you. It’s a place that remains a well-kept secret still. And the best part? It’s only 20-km from Bir, offering you the conveniences of the famous town’s iconic pleasures. Check out Zostel Homes Harabhag (Joginder Nagar) for a wholesome Himachali homestay experience. 

Things to do in Harabhag on a family vacation:

Experience the village life, watch sunsets, and stroll around rice paddies. Go on a rewarding hike to Jimjema forest and Shanan power house. Take day trips to the Indira market, Bangoru waterfall, and Winch camp.

Kuno, Madhya Pradesh

Looking for something wild to do on your next family vacation? Kuno National Park is your pick. With fewer jungle patches and more open grasslands, there are really high chances of spotting lions, leopards, and other animals in the wild. Other than animals, there are 123 species of trees, 71 species of shrubs, 32 species of exotic species, and 34 species of bamboo and grasses, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts. November to February is a great time for a 2-day safari adventure in the jungle.

Things to do in Kuno on a family vacation: 

Go on jeep safaris, spot rare birds, sign up for photography lessons, indulge in tribal art and cooking workshops, and take a hot-air balloon ride. 

So, save this list of the best places for a family vacation in India for a trip full of reconnecting, rejuvenating, and relaxing with your loved ones.