Explore the Best of Uttarakhand with Kids

Travelling to Uttarakhand for scenic beauty, adventure and religious tour has always been delightful. But when it comes to planning a trip with kids, most of us face trouble selecting the best travel destination that is not only fascinating for the kids but also help them learn as well. I mean, I know kid’s vacations can be really tricky, because you want your kids to have a lot of fun but also, you want them to grasp few things that are useful for their cognitive growth and overall knowledge. Thus, you often end up being stressed, well not now, as you have me to help you find a destination that is suitable for your little ones. I have come up with the list of kids-friendly places in Uttarakhand where you can plan a holiday without breaking into sweat. From a relaxing break to something a little more adventurous that your kids want to experience, the list will cover all. So, let’s get started.

1. Nainital: Let Your Kids Explore the Enchanting Gems in the Kumaon Hills

A mix of hustle and bustle and quietude, Nainital which is in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand has always been a popular tourist destination for couples and families. If this time you are looking for a place in Uttarakhand to visit with your kids, then you can consider Nainital. Whether it is splashing water, climbing, riding, sliding, Nainital has it all intact for your kids to enjoy. Right from recreational parks to arcades, there are many children-friendly places in Nainital out of which the ones not to be missed are the Eco Cave Gardens which is a network of interconnected natural underground caves and hanging gardens, high altitude zoo where your will enjoy spotting the Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Martin, Himalayan Civet, Steppe Eagle, Tibetan Wolf, Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard and Fowls and Parakeets. Birdwatching in nearby Sattal and Pangot and enjoying are camp stay are some of the best options to make the most of your holidays in Nainital.

How to Reach?

By Air: As Nainital doesn’t have its own airport, the nearest airport is at Pantnagar, which lies at a distance of approx 68 km from Nainital. Getting down at the airport, you can board a cab to reach Nainital. What you need to know is that Pantnagar doesn’t have a good connectivity with the major cities as fewer flights operate from the airport.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station which is located at a distance of approx 36 km from the city. Getting down at the railway station, you can avail cabs to reach your final destination.

By Road: Travelling to Nainital by road is convenient as the city is well-linked to all nearby places by a network of well-constructed roads. But if you are planning to visit Nainital during the peak season, then I would suggest you not to travel by personal vehicle. Instead avail buses or book cabs to make it to Nainital.

Where to Stay: The Naini Retreat, Balrampur House, Shervani Hilltop, Hotel Himalaya are some of the best options for a kids-friendly stay in Nainital.

2. Mussoorie: Escape with Your Kids to the Pristine Beauty of the Garhwal Region

A popular hill station of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is yet another place which you can choose to visit with your children. On visiting the place, you and your kids will get mesmerized by the verdant hills, rich flora along with spectacular views of the Shivalik mountain range. The place has so much to offer that let the kids enjoy to the fullest. The points of interests in Mussoorie include IKYA Island Company Garden, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mussoorie Lake, Bhatta Falls are some of the top tourist attractions in Mussoorie suitable for kids.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is located at a distance of approx 59 km from Mussoorie. Get down at the airport, you can board a cab to reach to Mussoorie.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Dehradun Railway Station which is located at a distance of approx 34 km Mussoorie. Get down at the station avail the cab facility to reach Mussoorie.

By Road: Travelling to Mussoorie by road is easily accessible and lets you experience a scenic drive no matter where you approach from. Also, you can avail the public or private bus facility from Delhi, Dehradun or Roorkee to reach Mussoorie.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sungrace, Crystal Palace by SeaHawk, Hotel Pacific are some of the best places to stay in Mussoorie.

3. Pithoragarh: Let Your Kids Take a Walk in the Exquisite Natural Beauty and Serenity

A prime example of raw beauty and nature sightseeing, Pithoragarh takes you to a small town of Uttarakhand where one can find peace and solitude. When visiting Pithoragarh with kids, the place offers an opportunity to explore the Maharaja Park which is laden with beautiful trees perfectly capturing the natural beauty. You can even head to the Pithoragarh Fort which holds historical significance and travellers trek and go to enjoy the scenic view of Kali Kumaon. Also, a visit to Nag Mandir, Gangolihat and Kapileshwar Temple can be made when in Pithoragarh.

How to Reach?

By Air: Pithoragarh has its own airport named Naini Saini Airport which is operational from Dehradun. So you can board a flight to Dehradun and from there to Pithoragarh.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Tanakpur which is at a distance of 147 km from Pithoragarh. From Tanakpur you will get a number of taxi and bus service to reach Pithoragarh.

By Road: Pithoragarh via roadway is quite simple to reach as it is well-connected with the major destinations of Uttarakhand.

Where to Stay: The Misty Mountain Retreat is the best accommodation option in Pithoragarh.

4. Kausani: Sit With Your Kids to Watch the Fascinating Star Filled Sky

With lush green valley, verdant pine tree forests, meandering creeks and majestic Himalayan peaks, Kausani is embellished with all the ingredients that make it a spellbinding destination to visit with your kids. Out of many places for a sightseeing tour, it is the Stargate Observatory which will grab the attention of your kids and will fascinate them in the best possible way. It is a private observatory of all the celestial objects in the town. On visiting the observatory, one will get the opportunity to explore the universe with professional equipments. Not only this, but Stargate Observatory conducts workshops for schools, amateur astronomers and photographers.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is at Pantnagar which is located at a distance of approx 167 km from Kausani.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station which is located at a distance of 133 km from Kausani. Get down at the railway station, hire a cab to reach Kausani.

By Road: Travelling to Kausani is not a difficult task as the Uttarakhand Roadways connects Kausani to the important places of Uttarakhand. Also, you can avail the private bus service from New Delhi.

Where to Stay: Kausani Best Inn, Heritage Resort Kausani, The Buransh are some of the best accommodation options in Kausani.

5. Kanatal: A Picturesque Destination To Let Your Kids Indulge in Adventure Activities

Situated on the Chamba-Mussoorie Road, Kanatal is a serene and picturesque suburb that boasts of scenic beauty, luxuriant vegetation and a number of adventures activities. Being yet another best places to visit in Uttarakhand, Kanatal will let you and your kids indulge in a number of interesting things amidst solemn peace. If adventure is what you are looking for then trekking and nature walks in the Kodai Jungle would give an amazing experience. Your kids would love to take the jungle safari where they can spot numerous rare bird species and animals like musk deer, wild boar, and nilgai, and barking deer. Also, for thrilling activity, indulge in the rock climbing and rappelling or simply enjoy bonfire and stargazing during night camping.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport which is at a distance of approx 80 km from Kanatal. From airport, you can board a cab to reach Kanatal.

By Rail: The nearest railheads to Kanatal are Rishikesh and Dehradun which is at a distance of approx 75 km and 85 km respectively from Kanatal. From the railway station you can take a taxi or bus service to reach Kanatal.

By Road: Kanatal is well-connected by road with the major cities of the Uttarakhand and the neighbouring states. You can avail the public or private bus service or cabs to reach Kanatal.

Where to Stay: The Terraces Spa Resort, Classical Hilltop Resort, Kanatal Hermitage Resort are the best accommodation options in Kanatal.

6. Dhanaulti: An Idyllic Getaway That Will Let You and Your Kids Unwind from the Hectic Schedule

Nestled amid the lofty Himalayan peaks, Dhanaulti is yet another famous hill station of Uttarakhand where you can take your kids. Even though there aren’t many grand tourist attractions but Dhanaulti is a good to go place if you are looking for a peaceful getaway where you can spend some quality time with your family. To add a little fun for your kids, is Dhanaulti Adventure Park where they can indulge in some adventure sports and activities. Also, a visit to Eco Park will let you and your kids unwind and spend some time in solitude.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport which is located at a distance of approx 50 km from Dhanaulti. Get down at the airport, board a cab to reach to Dhanaulti.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Dehradun which is located at a distance of 35 km from Dhanaulti. After reaching Dehradun railway station, you can board a cab to Dhanaulti.

By Road: Travelling to Dhanaulti by road is easy via a number of public and private buses from the nearby cities of the state. Also, there are frequent buses for Uttarakhand from Delhi.

Where to Stay: The Dhanaulti Groove Garden and The Garden Cottage are two options for accommodation where you can book your stay.

7. Rishikesh: Enjoy Camping Beside the Himalayan Hills and River Ganges with Your Kids

One of the beautiful places in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is not to be missed when looking for family-friendly destinations. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, a trip to Rishikesh will let you cover a spiritual holiday. Being in the sacred town of Rishikesh, you can sense the mystique flows from the River Ganga. Other than this, if your kids are interested in splashing water, climbing, riding, Rishikesh will let your kids enjoy all of it and much more. Also, riverside camping is one of the best options where you and your kids can experience nature and adventure in Rishikesh. Camp Aquaforest, Camp Rapidfire and Camp Gold Coast are the best camps in Rishikesh.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport which is located at a distance of 20 km from Rishikesh. Get down at the airport, you can board a cab to reach Rishikesh.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Rishikesh is in Haridwar which is located at a distance of 20 km from Rishikesh. Getting down at the railway station, you can avail the public transport facility to reach Rishikesh.

By Road: As Rishikesh is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand, travelling here by road is easily accessible. Rishikesh has a good network of buses connecting it with important places such as Haridwar, Dehradun and New Delhi.

Where to Stay: EllBee Ganga View Hotel, Ganga Kinare, Hotel Shri Ganga, Hotel Holiday Hill are some of the options where you can book your stay with kids in Rishikesh.

8. Corbett National Park: A Perfect Destination to Bring Your Kids Closer to the Nature and Wildlife

If fun-filled activities and adventure tour are what you’re looking for then visiting the Corbett National Park is indeed a good idea. On visiting Corbett National Park, your kids can learn about camping and indulging in various kinds of outdoor adventure activities. A trip to Corbett National Park will be amazing in its own way as it will give an opportunity to your child to be free from their daily routine and let them come close to nature and witness the wildlife. Other than this, you and your family can make the most of your visit to Corbett National Park by taking the jeep safari where one can get deep into the jungle and explore a variety of birds and animal species.

How to Reach?

By Air: Travelling to Corbett National Park by air is not an ideal way. However, if you are planning to travel from a distant part of country and are really tight on time, then Pantnagar Airport would be the nearest which is located at a distance of approx 82 km from Corbett National Park. Get down at the airport you can hire a cab service to reach to the national park.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Corbett is Ramnagar which is connected to the major destinations like Delhi, Haridwar, Lucknow and Varanasi. From Ramnagar you can board a cab to reach Corbett National Park.

By Road: Travelling to Corbett National Park by road is easy. If you’re coming from Delhi, then the drive would take 6-8 hours.

Where to Stay: The Gateway Resort, Jungle Leela Resort, Corbett the Baagh Spa and Resort are some of the best family friendly resorts in Corbett.

9. Chakrata: A Picturesque Picnic Spot Offering Fun & Adventure Activities

Looking for an offbeat destination in Uttarakhand where you can simply relax and indulge in nature sightseeing with your family? Then Chakrata is the answer. A small hill town near Dehradun will take you amidst lush green forests, caves and ancient temples. On being there, you can even enjoy bird-watching and exploring the wilderness. Some of the attractions in Chakrata include Tiger Fall, Bhudar Cave, Kimona Fall, Ram Tal Horticultural Garden.

How to Reach?

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport which is located at a distance of approx 155 km from Chakrata. From the airport, you can avail a cab or a bus service to reach Chakrata.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is the Dehradun Railway Station. Get down at the railway, and you can board a cab or bus to reach Chakrata.

By Road: If you are planning to travel to Chakrata by road then taking a bus from Dehradun or Mussoorie will be an ideal option.

Where to Stay: Himalayan Eco Lodges and Camps is one of the best option to book your stay in Chakrata.

10. Chaukori: Experience Nature Walk With Your Kids and Explore the Peaceful Life of the Hills

Bestowed with nature’s grandeur, Chaukori is an idyllic village where one can explore the nature at its best. While travelling to one of this offbeat places in Uttarakhand, you can witness the tea garden that spreads the aroma. Also, Chaukori having hidden attractions will let you experience nature walk amidst the undulating hills, lush green forests and verdant pastures. If you and family love exploring the culture and lifestyle, it is here where you can experience the rustic and peaceful life of the hills. Other than this, it is the mesmerising sunrise and sunset and of course the panoramic views of the Panchachuli Peaks that add charm to the little village making it more fascinating to the travellers.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport which is situated at a distance of 223 km from Chaukori. Get down at the airport and take a cab to Chaukori.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station which is located at a distance of approx 189 km from Chaukori. Once you reach Kathgodam, board a cab or bus to reach Chaukori.

By Road: As Chaukori is well-connected by motorable roads with the major cities of the northern India, travelling here by road is feasible.

Where to Stay: Hotel Himshikhar and Ojaswi Resort are the options where you can book your stay in Chaukori.

11. Ranikhet: Get a Step Closer to Nature in a Paradisiacal Destination

Being yet another budget travel destination in Uttarakhand, Ranikhet is a tranquil natural paradise with lush green meadows and soaring coniferous forests. On visiting Ranikhet, you will get an opportunity to indulge in many activities and to rejuvenate from the hectic city life. When in Ranikhet, you can have family fun at the jungle-themed Aashiyana Park. You can also take a refreshing walk through orchards at the Chaubatia Gardens. Other than this, for a spiritual experience, head to Jhula Devi Temple.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport to Ranikhet is Pantnagar Airport which is at a distance of approx 109 km from Ranikhet. Getting down at the airport, you can avail the public transport facility to reach Ranikhet.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station. Get down at the railway station one can board a cab to reach Ranikhet.

By Road: Ranikhet is well connected by road from all the nearby cities of Uttarakhand. You can avail various bus services like tourists, state, and local buses to reach Ranikhet from Haldwani as well as Delhi.

Where to Stay: West View Ranikhet, Yak and Yeti Inn, Holm Farm Heritage Hotel are the accommodation options where you can book your stay.

12. Rajaji National Park: Take a Forest Walk with Your Kids to Witness the Exotic Wildlife

A visit to Rajaji National Park which is one of best destinations to visit in Uttarakhand will let you come across vivacious wildlife. To make the most of your visit with your kids to the national park, you can relish a night stay and a jungle safari that will give you an altogether different experience. You can also enjoy nature walk and delight in the beautiful landscape. Also, taking a forest walk will give an opportunity to witness the exotic alpine wildlife living peacefully with each other. Other than this, you can even indulge in bird watching, interaction with the locals and can relish an evening bonfire.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport which is located at a distance of approx 35 km from Rajaji National Park. From the airport you can board a cab to reach Rajaji National Park.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Rajaji National Park is at Haridwar (21 km), Dehradun (60 km) and Rishikesh (18 km). Get down at any of these railway stations, you can board a cab to reach to Rajaji National Park.

By Road: Travelling to Rajaji National Park by road is convenient as buses are available from most nearby cities and towns.

Where to Stay: Roost Aaryan Manor and Wild Brook Retreat are the best options to book your stay in the wild.

13. Lansdowne: Let Your Kids Experience a Number of Activities in the Lap of Mother Nature

An untouched, pristine town away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lansdowne is a perfect getaway if you are looking for a break amidst solitude and peace. The reason why I chose to add Lansdowne to the list of kid’s friendly destination is because the place offers a number of activities that your child would love to experience. The Kalagarh Wildlife Sanctuary which is a must visit place will give an opportunity to indulge in safaris and explore the wildlife in the cool and subtle atmosphere. Other than this, boating in the Bhula Lake will let you spot the lazy ducks paddling and rabbits hopping around the bank of it. Also, if you happen to visit during the monsoon season, the place will let you catch a glimpse of many migratory birds including Northern Shoveler, Ruddy Shelduck, Northern Pintail, Common Merganser and more.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport which is located at a distance of approx 143 km from Lansdowne. Get down at the airport, you can avail cab service to reach Lansdowne.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kotdwar railway station which is located at a distance of approx 40 km from Lansdowne. Reaching Kotdwar, you can avail the bus and taxi services to reach Lansdowne.

By Road: As Lansdowne is well-connected by motorable roads with the major destinations of Uttarakhand, reaching Lansdowne by road is convenient. Also, bus services to Kotdwar are available from Delhi. From Kotdwar, cabs are available for Lansdowne.

Where to Stay: Vanvasa, Blue Pine Resort, Hill Top Forest Palace are the options where you can book your stay.

14. Mukteshwar: Indulge with Your Kids in Adventurous Activities Amidst Tranquil Ambience

Being an adventure tourism destination in Uttarakhand, Mukteshwar, a quaint hill town will let you and your child experience the best ever adventurous activities with jaw-dropping views of the Himalayan ranges. With tranquil ambience, lush green woods and narrow hilly trails, Mukteshwar offers a number of things to do that are suitable for the grown-ups as well as kids. The activities include trekking, camping, rock climbing, rappelling. Also, if adventure is not what you are interested in then head to the best tourist spot to watch the sunrise above the Nanda Devi Peak, or visit the age-old temples of the Pahari Gods.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar which is at a distance of approx 95 km from Mukteshwar. From Pantnagar, you can board a taxi to reach Mukteshwar.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam Railway Station which is located at a distance of 62 km from Mukteshwar. Get down at the railway station, you can get a taxi and or bus service to reach Mukteshwar.

By Road: Travelling to Mukteshwar by road is easily accessible as there are public and private bus services. Hiring a cab is the best way to reach Mukteshwar.

Where to Stay: Ojaswi Himalayan Resort, Green Oak Resort, Krishna Orchard Resort are the best options to book your stay in Mukteshwar.

15. Pangot: Go Birdwatching, Camping and Trekking in the Paradise of Birds

One of the best places to visit with parents in Uttarakhand, Pangot let’s one connect with nature and rejuvenate from the humdrum of life. The picturesque hamlet is a paradise for those who seek peace and solitude amidst nature. While you are in Pangot, you can make the most of your visit as the place offers several activities for tourists like bird watching as the place is full of myriad species of birds including Himalayan griffon, Blue-winged minla, Khalij peasant and more. Also, if adventurous trekking is what you want, then Pangot will take you through some lush green forests over the ridge and down the valley. Other than this, camping is yet another tourism activity that is worth experiencing in Pangot.

How to Reach?

By Air: The nearest railhead is Pantnagar which is located at a distance of approx 86 km from Pangot. Getting down at the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Pangot.

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam which is at a distance of approx 52 km from Pangot. From Kathgodam you can board a cab to reach Pangot.

By Road: As Pangot is well connected with the motorable roads of Northern India, travelling to Pangot by road is convenient. You can avail cabs from Kathgodam or Delhi.

Where to Stay: Jungle Lore Birding Hotel and Nest Cottages are the options where you can book your stay.

These were the 15 best kids-friendly destinations in Uttarakhand, if you have more ideas to share with us, feel free to comment.

If you need any assistance for Uttarakhand family tourism packages, Tour My India is here to help. You can call +91- 8744012051 or drop your queries at info@tourmyindia.com. At Tour My India, our aim is to offer you the best travel packages that suits your needs and preference to let you get an unforgettable experience.