28 Top Summer Vacation Getaways in India for Families, Beat the Heat!
Summer vacation is all about taking a break from the routine, enjoying outdoor activities, spending time with family, and traveling to new destinations.
And with vacations being right around the corner, we are sure you too are planning some fun in the sun and looking for exciting experiences to have with your family.
Looking for the best places to visit in summer in India with family? Here are a few off-beat summer vacation destinations you can visit for an unforgettable experience –
Top Summer Vacation Getaways in India
Meghalaya – Walk on the staircase to heaven
Meghalaya is indeed among the best places to visit in summer in India with family. There are plenty of natural wonders in Meghalaya that’ll leave you spellbound. Especially the staircase to heaven – 100-year-old living roots of trees naturally entwining, forming a bridge, and helping visitors cross over rivers. Seems right out of a fantasy book, right?
You have to take a small trek (which includes 3000 steps) to witness the double-decker living root bridge but its enigma is worth every drop of your sweat and will overwhelm your senses.
How to get there: Take a flight to Guwahati, Shillong, and Silchar.
Take a bus/car to Cherrapunji. There are several taxis/sleeper buses available for the village of Nongriat, which is the base camp for the trek to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ideal for: Couples, Families with teenagers
Things to take care of :
- Avoid it if you have health issues.
- Hire a guide to avoiding getting lost/getting the best experience in the place
- Carry light snacks, water and avoid littering
- Dress comfortably and modestly
- The place is considered sacred by locals. Be mindful of your actions.
Ladakh – Experience the Saka Dawa Festival
Ladakh is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit with family in summer vacation. However, if you are looking for a unique cultural experience to witness this summer vacation – Don’t miss the Saka Dawa festival. One of the most important days in Tibetan Buddhism is celebrated in the month of May/June.
The festival marks the enlightenment of Lord Buddha and is celebrated with traditional music, dance performances, and colourful flags adoring monasteries and temples.
How to get there: You can take a flight to Leh or take an AC sleeper bus from Manali/to Srinagar.
Ideal For: Couples, Inter-generational Families, Families with kids
Things to take care of:
- Leh is at a high altitude and it can take a few days for you to acclimatize to air pressure. Avoid if you have asthma or major heart issues
- The weather in Leh is quite unpredictable. Make sure to keep some light warm clothes and rain gear.
If you want to experience a spiritual summer with your family but can’t travel to Leh – You can instead visit places like Varanasi, Haridwar, or Rishikesh.
Kanha National Park – Experience The Jungle Book
If you have 3-8-year-olds in your family, oh you are going to love this one! Kanha National Park, also known as the Mowgli Land (thanks to Rudyard Kipling’s famous kids’ book The Jungle Book) is an ideal experience to have with family for an unforgettable experience. It is among the best places to visit with family in summer.
Located in Madhya Pradesh, it is one of the largest national parks in India and is home to rare species of birds, Bengal tiger, Indian leopards, Barasingha, and deer. It offers Jungle Safaris, Elephant Rides, Nature walks, and other exciting activities.
March-May is an ideal time to witness tigers and panthers chilling in their habitats.
How to get there: You can either book a flight to Jabalpur or take a train to Gondia or Jabalpur. From there take a bus ticket or hire a taxi to reach the National Park.
Ideal For: Couples, Families with 3 -18 yr olds, Intergenerational Families
Things to take care of:
- Do not wear flashy clothes. Dress in muted tones (browns and greens)
- Carry insect repellants and sunscreens.
- Do not litter around
- Do not feed/disturb the animals
Explore the Hills in this Summer Vacation.
The idea of getting away from the heat and being with the family amidst the hills, sipping warm tea, binge eating Maggi and pakoras, laughing, and playing board games makes our hearts happy.
So why not take this cool, classic, refreshing escape this summer vacation?
From Rishikishesh to Chakrata to Spiti Valley to Kasar Devi to Shimla to Manali to Darjeeling to Mysore to Coorg – The budget travel options are endless.
You can go on treks, do yoga, and skiing, explore the local cuisine, do horse riding, or just do nothing and soak in the natural beauty.
How to get there: It depends on the place you’re traveling to. But traveling by AC bus/road gives you some of the best views of the hills. You can easily book your seat through online bus ticket booking services.
Ideal For: Couples, Families with Teenagers
Things to take care of:
- If travelling in a bus, Choose a reliable bus operator like Zingbus – Someone who is known for good buses has a good safety record, and has comfortable busses
- Keep light warm clothes and rain gear even if travelling in summers
- Book in advance to get the best deals (including rooms with the most scenic views and cheap bus tickets)
- If you suffer from motion sickness, take medicine in advance
- Take regular breaks to stretch your legs, connect with locals, and enjoy the view
Relieve the Bygone Era in Bundi
Next on the list of the best places to visit in India with family in summer is Bundi. Located in the princely state of Rajasthan, this place is well-known for its step wells, majestic forts, magnificent palaces, chhatris with carved pillars, and temples.
Bundi is popular among people for its rich historical significance. This place has witnessed many historical battles and has legendary tales of valor to tell.
You can take your teenage children to explore this place and make history more interesting and livelier for them. Besides taking a tour of the historical places, you can enjoy natural beauty in the form of waterfalls, lakes, and rivers.
How to get there: You can take a flight to Jaipur and then travel to Bundi by cab. However, if you want to explore scenic views throughout the journey, traveling by bus is a great idea.
Ideal for: Families with teenagers, couple
Things to take care of:
- Hire a guide to avoid missing out on visiting the best places in Bundi.
- Dress modestly and comfortably.
- Keep some snacks in your bag for a quick hunger bite.
- Wear comfortable footwear as you will have to walk a lot to cover all the places.
- Respect the sculptures and avoid sitting on them.
Experience Tranquillity by the Lake in Nainital
Tired of your monotonous and hectic schedule? Take a week off and head to Nainital, one of the top places to visit in summer with family. Nestled in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is well known for its pleasant weather, lush forests, and pristine lakes.
Opt for a boat ride and explore the emerald waters of Naini Lake. Seek blessings at the Naina Devi Temple and obtain a unique spiritual experience. Besides these, you can head to the cafes at Mall Road and indulge in some tasty delights and shop to your heart’s content.
How to get there: You can take a flight to Pantnagar or book a comfortable AC sleeper bus to Nainital.
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Things to take care of:
- If you have motion sickness, take medicine well in advance.
- Carry some light woolen wear.
- If you are up for a boat ride in the Nainital Lake, do not forget to wear a life jacket.
- Get your bookings confirmed at least two days before your visit to avoid last-minute hassles.
Camp at Dandeli
If you are in search of the best places to visit in summer in Karnataka with family, there is no better choice than Dandeli. It is indeed a perfect weekend gateway for people in Bangalore. The dense foliage of this place is sure to leave nature lovers in awe. Enjoy camping here, explore the rich fauna, and relish the quietude. In case you are in search of some thrilling and adventurous activity, you can try river rafting.
How to get there: Traveling to Dandeli by road is quite convenient. You can either book a cab or reserve a seat in a sleeper bus and reach your destination with optimum comfort.
Ideal for: Families, Working couples
Things to take care of:
- Avoid feeding the wild animals.
- Make sure not to litter the forests.
- Stay close to your group, especially at the riversides.
Tawang – Capture Breathtaking Panoramic views in the Land of Monastic Charm
Located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is one of the popular places to visit with family in summer. This place is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and Buddhist monasteries. Explore the place and soak in the panoramic views of the waterfalls and snow-clad mountains.
Immerse yourself in the exceptional combination of natural beauty and culture in Tawang. When in Tawang, do not forget to visit the largest monastery in India, the Tawang Monastery.
How to get there: Take a flight to Tezpur, Assam. From there, you can easily get shared taxis or buses to Tawang.
Ideal for: Families with teenagers, couples
Things to take care of:
- Avoid running on the snow-covered areas.
- Keep your shoes outside while entering the prayer hall of the monasteries.
- Avoid littering the monasteries.
Connect with Nature at Rajgundha
Are you looking for the best places to visit in India in summer with family? Look no further than Rajgundha in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled amidst the lofty mountains and thick forests, you are sure to enjoy your summer break here. Go on a family vacation to Rajgundha and spend time conversing with nature.
The paradisiacal destination will allow you to enjoy star gazing and camping at its best. Whether you and your family members are nature lovers or adventure seekers, this place is the perfect summer destination.
How to get there: The trek for Rajgundha starts at Baragoan. Book a bus to Bir and from there, you can get a car and reach the trekking point.
Ideal for: Families
Things to take care of:
- Try to wear waterproof, ankle-high shoes during trekking
- Carry your water bottle as you may not find any shop during the trek.
Take a Trip to Pangong Lake in Ladakh
Remember the last scene of the famous 3 Idiots movie? Well, the iconic scene was shot by the Pangong Lake in Ladakh. If you are looking for the best place to visit in summer in India with family, Pangong Lake can be a perfect option.
The crystal clear turquoise-colored water of the lake offers the perfect background to click Instagram-worthy pictures. Moreover, you can even get to see the gulls and ducks on the surface.
How to get there: You can either take a flight to Leh or book buses and cabs from Manali to reach Ladakh.
Ideal for: Newly-wed couples, Families with teenagers
Things to take care of:
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Carry necessary medications for altitude sickness, common ailments, and headaches.
- Carry extra water and food for emergencies or unexpected delays.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Tungi
Are you looking for the best places to visit in Pune in summer with family? Tungi can be the perfect destination! Tungi is located at a distance of nearly 85 km from Pune on the foothills of Tungi Fort overlooking Lake Pavana and Tikona Fort. Besides rejuvenating and relaxing yourself at Tungi, you can enjoy a trek to the Pavana Lake.
How to get there: You can either take a flight to Pune or travel by a comfortable, luxury sleeper bus. From there, you can take an easy drive to Tungi.
Ideal for: Families
Things to take care of:
- Avoid venturing out at night.
- Wear comfortable clothes for the best experience.
Ziro – Head to the Peace Seeker’s Paradise
Looking for the best places to visit in summer with family? Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh can be the perfect destination for you. Surrounded by rice fields and beautiful pine hills, the quaint town is sure to offer incredible and blissful experiences.
How to get there: Book a flight to Tezpur and then take a bus or cab to reach Ziro.
Ideal for: Couples, families
Things to take care of:
- Do not harm or litter the environment.
- Dress properly.
- Carry a backpack with essentials like some snacking items and water.
Orchha – Take a Walk Through History
Are you a history buff and looking for the top places to visit in India during summer with family? Experience the perfect blend of architecture and history in Orchha. Nestled on the banks of Madhya Pradesh’s Betwa River, Orchha is truly a hidden gem showcasing the grandeur of medieval India.
This place is well known among people for its intricately carved temples, awe-inspiring palaces, and magnificent cenotaphs. When visiting this place, walk through history while exploring Jehangir Mahal and the Orchha Fort.
How to get there: If comfort and affordability are your top priority, traveling by bus to Madhya Pradesh is an ideal decision. From there, you can book a shared taxi to Orchha.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Avoid discarding anything in the environment.
- Travel light.
- Limit the usage of plastic during your travel.
Gokarna – Explore the Land of Golden Sands
No doubt, when thinking of places to visit in summer in India with family, beaches are sure to cross your mind. India is indeed home to a plethora of beaches. However, if you are in search of an unspoiled and pristine beach, Gokarna is the perfect destination.
Located on the coast of Karwar, Gokarna is famous for its clean sands, oceans, coconut trees, and palm trees. Visit this place with your family and spend some quality time in a peaceful ambiance.
How to get there: Book a flight to Goa and head to Gokarna. If you want to save more on your travel, you can opt for a bus.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Book your stay in advance.
- Respect the local customs of the place.
- Do not throw away your waste at the beach.
- Enjoy a Vacation in the Mini Switzerland of India
Situated in the state of Uttarakhand, Chopta is a popular hill station well known for its breathtaking vistas and untouched beauty. The panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains, lush meadows, and dense forests make Chopta one of the best places to visit in summer in India with family.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the place and create new memories with your loved ones. If you want to make your trip more exciting, a trek to Tungnath can be an ideal option.
How to get there: You can easily reach Chopta by road. First, you need to reach Rishikesh and take a taxi or bus to Chopta.
Ideal for: Families with teenagers
Things to take care of:
- Avoid carrying too much luggage with you.
- Wear comfortable clothing and trekking shoes.
- If you want to trek to the Tungnath Temple, make sure to carry a trekking pole.
Delhi – Activate your Senses in the Garden of Five Senses
Looking for the best place to visit in Delhi with family in summer? The Garden of Five Senses can be the perfect weekend gateway. Located amidst the lush greenery, this place is much more than just a picnic destination. A visit to this place can ensure perfect mind-body balance and allow you to experience mental calmness. Reconnect with nature and spend some quality time with your loved ones.
How to get there: Book a flight or bus to Delhi as per your convenience and then take a cab to visit the beautiful garden within the city.
Ideal for: Couples, Families with kids
Things to take care of:
- Avoid wearing party shoes to the garden.
- Comfortable clothing is a must.
- Avoid littering the space.
Explore the Tadoba National Park
If you are in search of the best places to visit in summer in Maharashtra with your family, the Tadoba National Park is a must-visit destination. Popularly known as the “Jewel of Vidharba”, this place is blessed with natural beauty and plenty of wildlife. It is among the best-protected Tiger reserves in India. After you have taken a complete tour of the national park, you can visit the nearby places like the Tadoba Lake, Erai Dam, and Moharli.
How to get there: You can book a flight to Nagpur and then head to the destination via a bus or shared cab.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Do not make noise while going on a safari in the national park.
- Avoid feeding the wild animals.
- Do not get out of the safari jeep during the tour.
- Avoid using mobile phones at the time of safari.
Enjoy Adventure Activities at Kasol
When it comes to the best places to visit in summer with family, you cannot leave behind Kasol. Explore the scenic beauty around and soak in the mesmerizing views. If you want to add some thrill to your summer vacation, do try out the adventurous activities in Kasol like hippie culture and trekking. The popular trekking paths in this place include Yanker Pass, Pin Parbati Pass, Kheerganga, and Sar Pass.
How to get there: Booking a bus is one of the most affordable and comfortable ways of reaching Kasol.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Carry some winter clothes irrespective of the month you are traveling in.
- Avoid eating too heavy.
- Do not leave any eatable along the roadside.
Explore Impeccable Beauty at Vagamon
The beauty of Kerela truly justifies its tagline which says God’s own country. When thinking about the best places to visit in India during summer with family, Vagamon is sure to pop up in your mind.
Experience the surreal beauty of the South and capture the breathtaking views. Visit the Pine Hills and feel like walking in the woods. Apart from that, you can visit the Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary and explore the wide variety of flora and fauna.
How to get there: Reaching Vagamon is pretty easy. You can either take a flight or bus to Kerela and then travel by cab or traveler to Vagamon.
Ideal for: Families with kids and teenagers
Things to take care of:
- If you are traveling by two-wheelers, make sure that there is sufficient petrol.
- Carry sufficient cash with you.
- Do not damage the environment in any manner.
Enjoy the Pleasant Atmosphere of Kalimpong
When it comes to the hill stations in West Bengal, Darjeeling is the first place to cross your mind. No doubt, it is among the best places to visit in summer in India with family. However, besides that, Kalimpong is a place that you must visit at least once in a lifetime.
The pleasant atmosphere, appealing location, and scenic grandeur make it one of one of the best places to visit in summer with family in India. The place houses a number of Buddhist monasteries.
So, during your visit to Kalimpong, you are likely to come across several monks residing peacefully in the mountains. When in Kalimpong, be sure to visit popular places like Delo Park, Pine View Nursery, and the famous monasteries.
How to get there: You can easily reach Kalimpong via bus or train.
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Things to take care of:
- Traveling with a professional guide is always a good idea.
- Collect your waste and dispose of it in the bins.
- If you have motion sickness, take appropriate medications before the journey begins.
Spend a Quiet Vacation at Varkala
No doubt, there are plenty of places to visit in India during summer with family. However, if you want to escape the crowded spaces and are in search of a quaint paradise, Varkala in Kerela is just the perfect destination.
Go sunbathing, swim, or simply sit on the shores and adore the beauty of nature. You can also visit the Papanasam beach and witness the sadhus performing holy rituals. Apart from that, indulge in adventurous activities like parasailing and paragliding.
How to get there: Reach Kochi by flight and then you can take a bus to reach Varkala.
Ideal for: Families with teenagers, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Put on comfortable clothing.
- Avoid littering the beaches.
- Walk on the Longest Hanging Bridge
Have you ever heard about Damro? It is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit with family in summer. It is home to one of the longest hanging bridges. Visit the place and get to witness the thatched bamboo houses and the laid-back lifestyle of the locals. Besides that, you can get to enjoy the views of the meadows, grasslands, and harvested crops.
How to get there: The nearest airport to Damro is Pasighat Airport. However, if you are looking for affordable transport, a bus is the ideal means of travel.
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Things to care for:
- Always travel with a professional guide.
- Do not litter your surroundings.
- Dress well.
- Avoid wearing high heels during the trip.
Indulge in Rock Climbing and Trekking at Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a small town in Uttarakhand that is popular for its adventure activities and scenic beauty. If you are searching for places to visit near Delhi in summers with family, this place is an excellent choice. The view of the majestic Himalayan ranges is indeed breathtaking and awe-inspiring. Do visit the 350-year-old Mukteshwar Dham Temple and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
How to get there: You can book a flight to Pantnagar or travel by bus to Mukteshwar from Delhi.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to care for:
- Dress properly for rock climbing and trekking.
- Do not disturb the wildlife around.
- Carry some warm clothing.
Escape to Mcleodganj
When it comes to the best places to visit with family in summer, Mcleodganj must find a spot on your list. This place is full of serenity and spirituality. The ancient monasteries, stunning landscapes, and lush greenery make it one of the best places to visit in summer with family. Do not forget to visit the Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsunag Falls, Triund, and Bhagsuang Temple.
How to get there: Book a flight or an overnight bus from Delhi.
Ideal for: Families with teenagers, Couples
Things to take care of:
- Avoid feeding or engaging with wild animals.
- Do not leave any eatables on the roadside.
- Make your reservations before the visit.
- Do not pollute the environment.
Soak in the Eclectic Beaty of Saputara
Saputara is indeed one of the top places to visit with family in summer. However, very less people are aware of this summer destination in India. Located in Gujarat, it is home to fascinating waterfalls and lush green forests. Enjoy the picturesque beauty of this place and indulge in exciting hiking activities. When returning home after your summer vacation in Saputara, make sure to get some hand-crafted crafts as a souvenir of this place.
How to get there: The nearest airport to this place is Surat Airport. Once you reach Surat, you can take a cab or bus to reach your destination.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to care for:
- Dress comfortably.
- Carry sufficient water during the adventure activities.
Spend Relaxing Time at Corbyn Cove
Wish to travel abroad but don’t have the budget? Don’t be disheartened! There are plenty of the best places to visit in summer in India with family that can offer you the international feel within your budget.
One such summer destination is Port Blair. Among all the places in Port Blair, Corbyn Cove is one of the best places to visit in summer in India with family. Spend some relaxing time by the beach and create memories with your loved ones.
How to get there: Book a flight to Port Blair and then take a cab to Corbyn Cove.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Things to care for:
- Avoid swimming in areas of strong currents or high tides.
- Carry extra clothing to the beach.
- Do not leave waste near the beach.
Enjoy a Peaceful Time at Harsil
The next place that finds a spot in the list of the best places to visit in summer in India with family is Harsil. It is a place that remains unknown to a lot of tourists. That is why planning a summer vacation to this place will enable you to spend some quality and peaceful time with your loved ones. Escape the chaos and experience the serenity in this place.
How to get there: The nearest airport to Harsil is Jolly Grant Airport. Once you reach at this airport, you can book a cab or bus and reach the destination.
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Things to take care of:
- Wear comfortable clothes and footwear.
- Dispose of wastes in the bins.
Pelling – Get Amazing Views of Mountain Peaks
Want to hold the hands of your loved ones while enjoying the amazing views of the mountain peaks? Then head to Pelling in Sikkim! It is also one of the best places to visit in summer in India with family. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the great Himalayas and Kanchenjunga Peak. It serves as the base for several treks. Do plan a visit to the Rimbi River and Rimbi Waterfall.
How to get there: You can reach Pelling by air, train, or bus. Based on your convenience, you can select the best travel mode.
Ideal for: Couples, Families
Things to care for:
- Do not litter the environment.
- Hire a guide for the best travel experience.
- Do not disturb the wildlife.
Enjoy Boating Activities at Naukuchiatal
Finally, on the list of the best places to visit in summer in India with family is Naukuchiatal. It is a tiny place in Uttarakhand surrounded by water and hilly terrains. Indulge in boating activities at this place and explore the nearby places like Bhimtal. The immense beauty, surreal ambiance, and lush greenery make it one of the best places to visit in summer in India with family.
How to get there: Reach the Pantnagar Airport and then hire a taxi to reach your destination.
Ideal for: Families
Things to take care of:
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Dress Properly.
Conclusion
By now, you must be well aware of the best places to visit in summer in India with family. There is no dearth of places to visit in India during summer vacation with family. So, this summer, pack your bags, get your loved ones together, and go out and have a memorable vacation at one of the best places to visit in summer with family.
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