Best Summer Vacation Destinations for Families: Unique Holiday Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to bond with your loved ones, away from the monotony of daily life. Choosing the best summer vacation destinations can be daunting with so many options available. But worry not—this blog will take you beyond the usual suggestions and highlight truly distinctive vacation spots for families that promise excitement, comfort, and memorable experiences. Here’s your ultimate guide to planning a family vacation this summer!

1. Ooty, Tamil Nadu: A Refreshing South Indian Hill Station

Ooty is not your run-of-the-mill destination for summer travel. While most people know it for its cool climate, the real charm lies in its lesser-known gems. Beyond the tea plantations, take your family on a toy train ride from Ooty to Coonoor. Unlike typical tourist trains, this one passes through tunnels and over bridges, giving kids and adults a dose of adventure.

Things to do in Ooty:

• Visit the Honey and Bee Museum for an educational yet fun outing.
• Stay at a luxury villa in Ooty with a private pool to enjoy some quiet family moments.
• Don’t miss the weekly tribal market to introduce your kids to the local culture.

Best time to visit Ooty: Summer months from March to June are perfect, with pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.

Stay in Ooty: Homestays and Villas

Ooty also offers cosy accommodations to enhance your trip. Homestays provide a blend of local hospitality and modern comfort, perfect for those seeking tranquillity amidst nature. StayVista offers charming villas and homestays in Ooty that cater to various preferences and budgets.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh: More Than Just Snow

Manali often tops the list of hill stations in North India, but there’s more to this town than its usual attractions. If you’re traveling with teens, make a detour to the Solang Valley for zorbing and paragliding. And for younger kids, the Himalayan Nyinmapa Buddhist Temple offers a serene space with colourful statues and an engaging cultural experience.

Tourist attractions in Manali:

• Roam through the old Manali market to find quirky handmade crafts while booking your stay in a luxurious homestay in Manali!
• Explore apple orchards and even pick some apples if you visit closer to autumn.
• Opt for a family trek to the Bijli Mahadev Temple; it’s gentle enough for beginners.

Weather in Manali: The summer months bring relief from the scorching plains, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.

3. Coorg, Karnataka: Coffee Country with a Twist

While Coorg is famed for its coffee plantations, it also has some of the most unique vacation spots for families. Imagine your kids learning to make homemade chocolate at a local estate! The Dubare Elephant Camp offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bathe and feed elephants, making it a standout activity.

Things to do in Coorg:

• Enrol your family in a plantation tour to understand sustainable farming.
• Check into homestays in Coorg for an authentic experience with local families.
• Enjoy a picnic by Abbey Falls, with plenty of safe spots for kids to splash around.

Best time to visit Coorg: April to June ensures cooler weather and clearer skies for sightseeing.

4. Munnar, Kerala: Where Nature Meets Fun

Munnar’s breathtaking views are famous, but what makes it special for families is the abundance of kid-friendly activities. The Tea Museum, for instance, offers interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences that will leave your children intrigued. Eravikulam National Park is another family favourite, especially during the Nilgiri Tahr spotting season.

Tourist places in Munnar:

• Visit the Mattupetty Dam for boating and spot rare birds.
• Take part in a family cooking class to master Kerala’s signature dishes.
• Explore local markets for organic spices and handmade crafts.

Weather in Munnar: Summers here are pleasant, with temperatures rarely crossing 25°C, making it an excellent escape from the heat.

Homestays in Munnar by StayVista

If you’re looking for cosy, luxurious, and picturesque accommodations, StayVista offers some of the best homestays in Munnar. Nestled amidst the hills, these homestays provide a perfect balance of comfort and nature, making them ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers.

5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: More Than Colonial Charm

Shimla is often considered one of the best places to visit in North India, but there’s more to it than its Mall Road and colonial architecture. Take your family to Kufri, just a short drive away, where adventure parks and horse rides will keep everyone entertained.

Things to do in Shimla:

• Ride the historic Kalka-Shimla toy train; it’s an experience straight out of a storybook.
• Stroll through the Chadwick Falls—a less crowded yet stunning spot, while staying in a luxurious villa in Shimla!
• For an unusual twist, visit the Shimla Ice Skating Rink if you’re there in early summer.

Best time to visit Shimla: Summer months from March to June are ideal, offering pleasant weather perfect for family outings.

6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Adventure and Spirituality Combined

Rishikesh is not just for yoga enthusiasts or adrenaline junkies. It’s also one of the most unique holiday destinations for families. From riverside camping to visiting ashrams, there’s a balance of excitement and peace. Even young kids will enjoy activities like mini rafting in calmer waters.

Tourist attractions in Rishikesh:

• Participate in Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat for a magical evening.
• Try family-friendly river rafting stretches designed for beginners.
• Visit Beatles Ashram for an artsy twist to your trip.

Weather in Rishikesh: Summers are warm but manageable, especially by the riverside.

7. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Beach Paradise

While beaches are a common choice for summer, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer unique attractions that few other places can match. Take your kids to the Cellular Jail to learn about India’s history or explore the incredible bioluminescent waters at Havelock Island during a moonless night.

Things to do in the Andamans:

• Snorkel with your family to witness vibrant marine life.
• Spend a day at Ross Island, now home to deer and peacocks.
• Opt for a glass-bottom boat ride for underwater viewing without diving.
• Stay at a luxury villa in Port Blair with a private pool to enjoy some quiet family moments.

Best time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The summer months from March to May are ideal, with calm seas and pleasant weather.

8. Jaipur, Rajasthan: The Pink City for Kids

Jaipur isn’t just about palaces and forts; it’s also a fun place for families. Book a heritage stay where kids can dress up in traditional Rajasthani attire. The city’s Jantar Mantar is not just for adults; its giant sundials can be fascinating for curious little minds.

Tourist places in Jaipur:

• Visit Amer Fort for an interactive sound-and-light show.
• Enrol in a block-printing workshop at a local studio.
• Explore Jawahar Circle’s musical fountains in the evening.

Weather in Jaipur: Though summers can be hot, early mornings and evenings are great for exploring.

Conclusion

Picking the best summer vacation destinations doesn’t have to be a mundane task. Whether you’re drawn to the hills of North India, the cultural richness of Rajasthan, or the adventurous vibes of Rishikesh, there’s something unique for every family. Each of these holiday destinations promises not just a break but memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and make this summer unforgettable!

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Written by: Ruben Saha