Summer vacations are the perfect time for families to bond, relax, and explore new places together. But when you’re travelling with kids, choosing the right destination becomes even more important. You need places that are safe, entertaining, educational, and full of activities to keep the little ones engaged.
Luckily, India is blessed with several family-friendly destinations that tick all the right boxes – whether you want mountains, beaches, amusement parks, or wildlife adventures. 👦
In this blog, we bring you the top places to visit during summer vacation with kids in India, complete with kid-friendly things to do, how to reach via bus, and top hotels for a hassle-free and enjoyable stay.
Top Places to Visit During Summer Vacation with Kids: 👨👩👦👦
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh 🌦️
Why Visit:
Manali is a paradise for families looking to escape the scorching heat. With its cool mountain breeze, snow-kissed valleys, and thrilling adventure activities, Manali offers a perfect balance of fun and relaxation. Kids can enjoy snow play in Solang Valley while parents soak in the stunning Himalayan views. From nature trails to temple visits, Manali keeps the whole family entertained.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Visit Solang Valley for snow tubing, skiing (in early summer), and ropeway rides.
- Explore Hidimba Devi Temple and let kids feed the rabbits around the area.
- Try Zorbing and paragliding in Rohtang Pass (age-appropriate).
- Enjoy riverside picnics by the Beas River.
How to Reach Manali by Bus: 🚍
Regular Volvo and state-run buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. The HRTC Volvo service from ISBT Kashmere Gate is highly recommended.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- The Himalayan – Fairytale castle-style hotel with gardens and mountain views.
- Snow Valley Resorts – Family-friendly with indoor games and spacious rooms.
- Apple Country Resort – Offers kids’ play areas and spa for adults.
2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Why Visit:
Ooty, often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a refreshing retreat nestled in the Nilgiri Hills. It’s known for its scenic lakes, gardens, and toy train rides – all of which are a big hit with kids. The weather is pleasant, the air is crisp, and the town has an old-world charm that appeals to every generation. Nature-loving families will especially enjoy exploring its floral diversity.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Toy Train) – a UNESCO heritage site.
- Visit the Ooty Botanical Garden and let kids run around or spot exotic flowers.
- Enjoy paddle boating at Ooty Lake.
- Stop by the Government Museum for fossils and tribal artifacts.
How to Reach Ooty by Bus: 🚍
Regular bus services from Coimbatore, Mysore, and Bangalore. TNSTC and private AC buses run daily.
Book buses on Paytm.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Club Mahindra Derby Green – Cottage-style stay with family entertainment.
- Fortune Resort Sullivan Court – Central location, playground, and great food.
- Hotel Lakeview – Private villas overlooking the lake, ideal for families.
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Why Visit:
Darjeeling brings together colonial charm, stunning landscapes, and exciting attractions for kids like toy trains and zoos. Perched in the Eastern Himalayas, it’s a cool escape with views of Mount Kanchenjunga on clear days. The quaint streets, tea gardens, and peaceful vibe make it ideal for slow travel with children. Plus, the toy train ride is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Hop on the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park for red pandas and snow leopards.
- Explore the Darjeeling Ropeway for aerial views of tea estates.
- Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill (if your kids are early risers).
How to Reach Darjeeling by Bus: 🚍
Buses ply from Siliguri, which is the nearest major hub. From Siliguri, you can get shared jeeps, private taxis, or buses.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Mayfair Darjeeling – Victorian-style charm with game rooms.
- Central Heritage Resort – Walking distance from the Mall Road.
- The Elgin, Darjeeling – Historic hotel with a cozy kids’ library.
4. Ranthambore, Rajasthan
Why Visit:
If your kids are fascinated by wildlife, Ranthambore is a thrilling destination. It combines the excitement of spotting tigers in the wild with the historic aura of Ranthambore Fort. It’s one of India’s best national parks for families, offering safe jeep safaris and a chance to see animals in their natural habitat. The mix of nature, history, and adventure is unbeatable.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Take a Jeep Safari through Ranthambore National Park to spot tigers, deer, and peacocks.
- Explore the ancient Ranthambore Fort.
- Visit the Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History for wildlife exhibits.
How to Reach Ranthambore by Bus: 🚍
Regular RSRTC buses from Jaipur (approx. 180 km) and Kota. Private buses also operate from Delhi and Agra to Sawai Madhopur, the nearest town.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Nahargarh Ranthambhore – Palace-like stay with lush lawns and a pool.
- Tiger Den Resort – Family cottages and jungle-themed decor.
- The Sher Garh Resort – Budget-friendly with open spaces and birdwatching options.
5. Munnar, Kerala
Why Visit:
Munnar is a lush green wonderland where rolling tea gardens stretch as far as the eye can see. Families can enjoy nature walks, tea factory visits, and gentle treks to waterfalls. With misty mornings and cool weather, it’s a relaxing break from the heat and noise of the cities. The region also offers mild outdoor experiences that are perfect for younger kids.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Visit the Tata Tea Museum to learn how tea is made.
- Enjoy an elephant ride at Carmelagiri Elephant Park.
- Trek to Attukad Waterfalls for a nature-filled picnic.
- Explore Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
How to Reach Munnar by Bus: 🚍
Direct buses from Kochi, Aluva, Ernakulam, and Madurai. KSRTC and private operators offer frequent services.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Parakkat Nature Resort – Panoramic views, indoor games, and family rooms.
- Tea Valley Resort – Set in a tea plantation with treehouse vibes.
- Abad Copper Castle – Overlooks tea gardens, has in-house dining and play areas.
6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Why Visit:
Famous for its strawberries and scenic views, Mahabaleshwar is a favorite weekend getaway for families from Mumbai and Pune. The cool climate and wide-open spaces make it great for kids to run around and explore. Boating at Venna Lake, tasting farm-fresh berries, and visiting lookout points like Arthur’s Seat are simple joys that children absolutely love.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Pick strawberries at Mapro Garden and enjoy pizzas and mocktails.
- Visit Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head Point for stunning views.
- Enjoy a boat ride at Venna Lake.
- Taste homemade chocolates and fudge across the market.
How to Reach Mahabaleshwar by Bus: 🚍
MSRTC and private buses run from Pune, Mumbai, and Satara. AC and sleeper options are available.
For stress-free bus travel, book buses on Paytm with Paytm Assured.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Brightland Resort & Spa – With kids’ activities and spa for parents.
- Evershine Resort by Sterling – Colonial-style resort with game zones.
- La Serene Resort and Spa – Great location with child-friendly amenities.
7. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Why Visit:
Jim Corbett is India’s oldest national park and a dream come true for young animal lovers. Safaris here are exciting, safe, and educational for kids and adults alike. Apart from tigers, the park is home to elephants, deer, and countless bird species. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and nature that makes summer vacations truly unforgettable.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Take a Jeep Safari to see elephants, deer, and maybe a tiger!
- Visit the Corbett Museum – former home of hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett.
- Enjoy a riverside picnic or go for a nature trail near Garjiya Devi Temple.
How to Reach Corbett by Bus: 🚍
Frequent buses from Delhi, Haldwani, and Nainital to Ramnagar, the nearest town to the park.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- The Riverview Retreat – River-facing villas with open gardens.
- Corbett Tusker Trail – Adventure activities and indoor games.
- Namah Resort – Spacious rooms, pool, and great food options for kids.
8. Shillong, Meghalaya
Why Visit:
With its clouds, waterfalls, and green hills, Shillong feels like a fairy-tale town. It’s much cooler than the plains during summer and packed with attractions that delight kids – from caves and lakes to local treats. A short drive away leads you to Cherrapunjee and Mawlynnong, offering cultural insights and natural wonders. The clean, peaceful atmosphere is great for families.
Things to Do with Kids: 🤩
- Boating at Umiam Lake.
- Visit Elephant Falls and let kids play in the splash zones.
- Explore Mawsmai Caves (easy and safe for children).
- Go on scenic drives to Cherrapunjee and Mawlynnong – Asia’s cleanest village.
How to Reach Shillong by Bus: 🚍
Buses from Guwahati (about 100 km) are frequent and scenic. Shared taxis are also available.
Top Hotels for Families: 🏨
- Tripura Castle – Heritage vibe with lawns.
- Hotel Polo Towers – Modern comforts in the city center.
- The Loft Executive Inn – Quiet location with homely food.
Conclusion:
Make This Summer Unforgettable for Your Kids! 👨👩👦👦🤩
Whether your child is an animal lover, a budding scientist, or simply someone who loves running wild in the outdoors, India offers a plethora of destinations that make family holidays exciting and memorable.
From snow-covered mountains in Manali to jungle safaris in Ranthambore, and toy train rides in Ooty to waterfall adventures in Shillong, there’s something for every curious mind.
So, pack your bags, book your bus tickets, and reserve your hotels early to beat the summer rush. A joyful journey awaits you and your little explorers!
📲 Book Your Family Bus Trip with Ease on Paytm! 🚍
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