Best Places to Visit with Kids in Uttarakhand

1. Nainital:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Boat Rides: Explore the shimmering Naini Lake on a boat, offering stunning views and a fun way to get around. Most kids love the feeling of being on the water.
• Toy Train Rides: Take a ride on the Nainital toy train, a miniature railway offering scenic views of the hills and a unique experience for children.
• Mini Golf: Enjoy a friendly competition at the mini golf course, a fun activity that tests putting skills and keeps kids entertained.
• Zoo: Visit the Nainital Zoo, home to various animals like tigers, leopards, and monkeys, sparking curiosity and appreciation for wildlife.
• Playground: Let your kids loose in the playground, equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures, providing them with a space to run, play, and socialize.

Bonus:

• Street Food: Savor delicious street food like hot samosas, crispy jalebis, and fluffy cotton candy, offering a taste of local flavors and a fun experience for kids.
• Vibrant Markets: Explore the bustling markets of Nainital, filled with souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce, offering a glimpse into the local culture and potential for finding unique treasures.

2. Mussoorie:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Cable Car Ride: Take a thrilling ride on the Mussoorie cable car, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys, leaving a lasting impression on kids.
• Fun Valley Amusement Park: Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Fun Valley amusement park, packed with exciting rides, games, and activities, catering to different age groups and thrill levels.
• Picnic in Nature: Pack a picnic basket and head to a scenic spot in Mussoorie, like Camel’s Back Road or Company Garden, for a relaxing afternoon amidst nature, allowing kids to explore and enjoy the fresh air.

Bonus:

• Horse Riding: Experience the joy of horse riding, available at designated points in Mussoorie, providing a unique and memorable activity for older children.
• Nature Walk: Embark on a nature walk through the hills surrounding Mussoorie, spotting various birds, butterflies, and plants, fostering an appreciation for the environment and encouraging exploration.

3. Jim Corbett National Park:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Jeep Safari: Jim Corbett National Park, Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the jungle, spotting tigers, elephants, deer, and other fascinating wildlife, sparking curiosity and excitement in children. The park also offers special jeep safaris designed for families with young children.
• Educational Programs: Participate in educational programs offered by the park, where children can learn about different animals, their habitats, and the importance of conservation in a fun and interactive way.
• Wildlife Resort: Stay in a wildlife resort, offering cottages or rooms amidst nature, allowing kids to experience the thrill of being close to wildlife and potentially witness animals from their balconies or during nature walks around the resort.
• Stargazing: At night, away from city lights, enjoy stargazing with your children, identifying constellations and learning about the wonders of the universe, creating a magical and educational experience.

Remember:

• Always follow the park’s guidelines and regulations during your visit.
• Ensure the chosen safari is suitable for your child’s age and temperament.

4. Rishikesh:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at dusk, where hundreds of lamps are offered to the Ganges River, creating a captivating and spiritual experience for children of all ages.
• White-Water Rafting (for older kids): For older children seeking an adrenaline rush, white-water rafting on the Ganges River offers a thrilling adventure under adult supervision and with proper safety gear.
• Rajaji National Park: Take a day trip to the nearby Rajaji National Park and explore its diverse landscapes on a jeep safari, spotting wildlife like elephants, leopards, and various bird species, enriching their understanding of nature.

Bonus:

• Learn Yoga: Introduce your children to basic yoga poses and simple meditation techniques, promoting mindfulness and relaxation in a fun and interactive way.
• Family Yoga Sessions: Many resorts and yoga centers offer family yoga sessions designed for parents and children to bond and learn together, fostering a sense of well-being and connection.

5. Dhanaulti:

• Eco Park: Explore the Eco Park, a haven for children with its cascading waterfalls, swings, and slides, providing a space for them to play, explore, and connect with nature.
• Ziplining (for older kids): For older children seeking an adrenaline rush, try ziplining through the scenic hills, offering a thrilling adventure under adult supervision and with proper safety gear.

6. Bhimtal:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Boat Rides: Explore the serene Bhimtal Lake on a boat, offering stunning views and a relaxing activity for children of all ages.
• Aquarium Island: Visit the Aquarium Island, a small island accessible by boat, and explore the diverse collection of fish and aquatic life, sparking curiosity and appreciation for underwater ecosystems.
• Victoria Dam: Take a stroll along the Victoria Dam, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills, and learn about its importance for irrigation and power generation.

Bonus:

• Nature Walk: Embark on a nature walk in the surrounding hills, spotting colorful butterflies, various bird species, and diverse flora, fostering a love for the outdoors and encouraging exploration.

7. Auli:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Winter Fun (Winters): During winters, Auli transforms into a winter wonderland. Enjoy snow games like sledding, snowman building, and snowball fights, creating lasting memories for your children.
• Summer Activities (Summers): In summers, explore the meadows bursting with wildflowers, go for a pony ride, or participate in nature walks, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas in a different season.

Bonus:

• Chairlift Ride: Take a chairlift ride for breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, offering a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.

8. Lansdowne:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Escape the Crowds: Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the serenity of Lansdowne, offering a peaceful environment for children to relax and unwind.
• Picnics: Pack a picnic basket and head to a scenic spot, like the Tipkeshwar Mahadev Temple complex or the War Cemetery, offering spaces to relax, play, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
• Hiking Trails: Explore shorter, child-friendly hiking trails around Lansdowne, allowing them to connect with nature, spot local birds and plants, and have an outdoor adventure.

Bonus:

• Birdwatching: Engage in birdwatching with your children, assisting them in identifying various bird species like pheasants, sunbirds, and eagles, fostering an appreciation for the local wildlife.

9. Chopta:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Winter Wonderland (Winters): During winters, witness the magic of snowfall and enjoy snow activities like building snowmen, having snowball fights, and rolling in the snow, creating a magical winter experience for children.
• Summer Meadows (Summers): In summer, explore the meadows filled with vibrant wildflowers like rhododendrons and primulas, go for short treks amidst scenic landscapes, or visit Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, offering a unique cultural experience.

Bonus:

• Tungnath Temple Visit: Visit Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, accessible by a short trek, offering stunning views and an opportunity to learn about Hindu culture and traditions.

10. Dehradun:

Why it’s perfect for kids:

• Dehradun Zoo: Visit the Dehradun Zoo, home to various animals like lions, tigers, and elephants, offering a chance for children to learn about different species and appreciate wildlife conservation.
• Tapkeshwar Temple and Cave: Explore the Tapkeshwar Temple and its cave, known for its religious significance and natural beauty, sparking curiosity and offering a unique cultural experience.
• Sahastradhara Waterfalls: Enjoy a picnic at the Sahastradhara waterfalls, where multiple streams cascade down, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to witness the beauty of nature.

Bonus:

• MIND Museum: Visit the MIND Museum, a science museum with interactive exhibits, that offers an engaging and educational experience for children to learn about various scientific concepts in a fun way.
• Indian Military Academy: Take a tour of the Indian Military Academy, learning about the history and traditions of the Indian Army, fostering patriotism, and sparking an interest in different career paths.

Planning Tips:

• Choose a destination that caters to your children’s age and interests.
• Opt for child-friendly accommodation with amenities like play areas and swimming pools.
• Pack comfortable clothes, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
• Plan activities with breaks in between to keep them energized.
• Be patient, and flexible, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Conclusion

Uttarakhand offers a diverse selection of destinations catering to families with children. From scenic hill stations and serene lakes to adventure activities and cultural experiences, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. So, pack your bags, grab your little ones, and embark on an unforgettable journey to this captivating state in the Himalayas.

FAQs

1. What are the Best Places To Visit With Kids In Uttarakhand?

The ideal time depends on your preferences. Summer (March-June) offers pleasant weather, while winters (December-February) showcase snow-capped peaks, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. However, monsoons (July-September) can cause landslides and road closures, so it’s best to avoid them.

2. What are some kid-friendly activities in Uttarakhand?

Uttarakhand boasts numerous options, including boating on lakes, exploring waterfalls, visiting zoos and parks, engaging in adventure activities like ziplining or ropeway rides, and participating in cultural experiences like attending aarti (prayer ceremony) at the Ganges river.

3. Where to stay in Uttarakhand with kids?

Many family-friendly resorts and hotels cater to children’s needs, offering amenities like play areas, swimming pools, and kid-friendly meals. Homestays can also be a charming option, providing a glimpse into local life.

4. What are some essential things to pack for a trip to Uttarakhand with kids?

Be prepared for varying weather conditions by packing layers of clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Don’t forget essentials like medication, first-aid kits, and their favorite toys or books to keep them occupied during the journey.

5. How to travel around Uttarakhand with kids?

The most convenient way to get around is by hiring a taxi or car. Public transportation options like buses and trains are also available, but research schedules and potential crowds beforehand. If traveling long distances, consider booking comfortable overnight train journeys.