Many of us cherished the joy of embarking on trips during the school summer break with our parents. The thrill of competing with siblings for the front seat, engaging in lively debates about music preferences, selecting the ideal highway-side restaurant, or even having playful arguments about room arrangements added to the excitement. Summer holidays were the most anticipated time of the year, offering an opportunity to explore new destinations. For children, it meant spending quality time travelling and discovering new places. However, choosing the right destination can sometimes be a challenge. To assist you in planning your summer getaway, here is a curated list of seven child-friendly destinations in India. Take your pick and create unforgettable memories this summer.
Dharamshala
Nestled in the cradle of the Himalayan paradise, Dharamshala has long been a popular tourist retreat, an escape from the hustle and bustle of our city lives. The year-long pleasant climate and the natural splendour of the hill town make it perfect for a trip with kids. Dharamshala is also home to a quaint little cricket stadium that often serves as a practice ground for the Indian National Team as well as well as the IPL team Kings XI Punjab. It is also home to the 14th Dalai Lama as well as other attractions like Bhagasu, Dharamkot, Bhagsunag Falls and Indrahar Pass. With plenty of monasteries and a holistic Buddhist vibe, Dharamshala is an excellent place for the family to experience a different culture.
Butter lamps, a common sight in Dharamsala
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar&rsquos proximity to the Arabian Sea, along with its high altitude, makes sure that the climate there is always cool and pleasant. However, the real charm of this hill station lies in the abundance of its scenic greenery, besides the forts and the 25 sunset and sunrise points that tourists flock to. In addition to enjoying a number of delicious regional delicacies, spoil your kids with multiple options horse-riding, boating at Lake Venna, and picking strawberry at countless farms dotting the town.
Forested hills and deep valleys around Mahabaleshwar
Chikmagalur
Located at the foothills of the Mullayanagiri range in Karnataka, Chikmagalur is renowned for its enchanting coffee plantations, the rich aroma instantly welcoming all who step foot into the city. Replete with picturesque waterfalls, historical temples and lush forests, Chikmagalur offers plenty to kick-start a child&rsquos imagination. The Bababudan Giri ranges, Kalhatti Falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple are some of the many must visit attractions of this magical city.
 The pretty Hebbe Falls, Chikmagalur
Gangtok
Ditch the cities and head to the Land of Monasteries- Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Located in the Shivalik Hills, the Buddhist Pilgrimage Centre in the city is a top favourite of travellers from all over the country. However, the rich history of the place, along with the plethora of monasteries, cable car rides, and mouth-watering Sikkimese cuisine make it a lovely place for a trip with the family. You can also experience the mesmerising views of the Himalayan ranges by planning a day trip to Darjeeling in the famous &lsquoToy Train&rsquo that runs from New Jalpaiguri station.
Mist and mountains form the backdrop for Gangtok&rsquos Main Bazaar
Manali
Manali is one of the most sought-after hill-stations for people looking for things to do It is one the most picturesque and awe-inspiring hill stations in India, boasting of adventurous snow-covered roads, beautiful flowering apple orchards and more. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley, the popular tourist attractions, offer a multitude of options for your kids and you to enjoy. Skiing, horse-riding, hot air ballooning, paragliding, white water rafting and many more activities promise a fun time in Manali. If your kids aren&rsquot into adventure sports, you can head to the famous Club House. Situated by the river and inspired by British-architecture, it is an entertainment zone popular for a variety of indoor and outdoor children friendly activities.
Solang Valley is a popular tourist attraction near Manali
Goa
A list of tourist destinations in India would be incomplete without the mention of Goa, India&rsquos world-renowned beach paradise. It&rsquos known far and wide for its Portuguese inspired architecture, imposing churches, and gorgeous spice gardens. However, despite being popular as a social destination, Goa is excellent for family trips with kids as well, owing to the plethora of scenic villages, beautiful beaches, shacks, activities, museums, art galleries, and libraries. The city is also home to several wild life sanctuaries, full of majestic elephants, sambar (deer), gaur (bison), and wild boar among others.
The coconut palm-lined Vagator Beach, as seen from Chapora Fort
Vagamon
The sun rises over mist-covered hills in Vagamon
This quiet and offbeat hill station, located in Kerala, is a slice of untouched land. Vagamon is renowned for its deep valleys, widely-stretching green meadows, dense pine forests, tea estates, and waterfalls. It is also home to a plethora of pine forests and lush green hills, besides offering many adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, mountaineering, and rock climbing. The Kurisumala Ashram, Thangal Para, and the beautiful Vagamon Falls, are amongst many of its charming attractions.
