Top Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand for Families
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Top Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand for Families
Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, is one of India’s most beautiful and culturally rich states. Often referred to as the "Devbhumi" or Land of the Gods, it is renowned for its sacred temples, vibrant traditions, natural beauty, and adventure opportunities. For families seeking a blend of spirituality, recreation, and scenic landscapes, Uttarakhand is an ideal destination.
From serene hill stations to wildlife adventures and sacred pilgrim spots, the state offers a wide variety of experiences suitable for children, adults, and elderly family members alike. In this blog, we present a detailed guide to the top tourist attractions in Uttarakhand for families, helping you plan a trip that is both enjoyable and enriching.
Table: Top Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand for Families
| Destination | Best For | Highlights | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nainital | Family Relaxation & Boating | Naini Lake, Zoo, Snow View Point, Mall Road | Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal |
| Mussoorie | Hill Walks & Sightseeing | Kempty Falls, Camel’s Back Road, Gun Hill | Dhanaulti, Landour |
| Jim Corbett | Wildlife & Jungle Safari | Jeep Safari, Bird Watching, Corbett Museum | Garjiya Temple, Sitabani Temple |
| Rishikesh | Spiritual & Adventure Activities | Ganga Aarti, River Rafting, Lakshman Jhula | Haridwar, Neelkanth Mahadev |
| Haridwar | Pilgrimage & Cultural Exploration | Har Ki Pauri, Temples, Ganga Aarti | Chandi Devi Temple, Rishikesh |
| Auli | Snow Activities & Scenic Views | Skiing, Ropeway Ride, Auli Lake | Joshimath, Nanda Devi Park |
| Almora | Heritage & Nature | Bright End Corner, Deer Park, Temples | Binsar, Jageshwar Dham |
| Ranikhet | Peaceful Retreat in Nature | Golf Course, Orchards, War Museum | Majkhali, Jhula Devi Temple |
| Chopta | Easy Treks & Panoramic Views | Tungnath Trek, Chandrashila Peak | Deoria Tal, Ukhimath |
| Lansdowne | Quiet Getaway & Colonial Charm | Bhulla Tal, Tip-in-Top, War Memorial | Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple |
1. Nainital – A Perfect Lake Retreat
Why Visit:
Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in North India and a favorite among families. The town is centered around the beautiful Naini Lake, where you can enjoy boat rides with your loved ones. The peaceful ambiance, lush green hills, and colonial-era architecture make it an ideal place for relaxation.
Top Attractions:
Boating in Naini Lake
Nainital Zoo with Himalayan animals
Snow View Point via cable car
Shopping and dining at Mall Road
Recommended For: Families with kids and elderly members who enjoy calm surroundings and light activities.
2. Mussoorie – The Queen of Hills
Why Visit:
Located near Dehradun, Mussoorie is a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. The cool climate and pine-covered hills offer a refreshing environment, ideal for a summer retreat.
Top Attractions:
Kempty Falls (safe swimming and picnicking spot)
Gun Hill viewpoint via ropeway
Mussoorie Lake for paddle boating
Camel's Back Road for scenic walks
Recommended For: Families seeking nature, leisure walks, and photography spots.
3. Jim Corbett National Park – A Wildlife Adventure
Why Visit:
Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India and a haven for wildlife lovers. Families, especially those with children, will enjoy the thrill of spotting tigers, elephants, and various bird species during jungle safaris.
Top Attractions:
Jeep Safari in the Dhikala or Bijrani zones
Birdwatching trails for nature enthusiasts
Corbett Museum showcasing the legacy of Jim Corbett
Riverfront lodges for overnight stays
Recommended For: Nature-loving families and wildlife enthusiasts.
4. Rishikesh – Spiritual and Adventurous
Why Visit:
Rishikesh offers a rare combination of spirituality and adrenaline-filled activities. Families can attend serene Ganga Aartis or go river rafting, depending on their interests. It’s a great place for bonding through spiritual or outdoor experiences.
Top Attractions:
Evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
Lakshman and Ram Jhula (historic suspension bridges)
River rafting and zip-lining for older kids and adults
Beatles Ashram with artistic graffiti and meditation zones
Recommended For: Active families with teenagers or spiritual seekers.
5. Haridwar – Gateway to the Divine
Why Visit:
Haridwar is one of the holiest places in India, known for its sacred ghats and temples. It’s a must-visit for families wanting to experience India's rich religious traditions and ceremonies.
Top Attractions:
Har Ki Pauri ghat and the mesmerising Ganga Aarti
Ropeway ride to Mansa Devi Temple
Cultural bazaars selling religious artifacts and snacks
Recommended For: Families with elderly members or those interested in religious tourism.
6. Auli – Snow Paradise for Families
Why Visit:
Auli is a lesser-known gem that transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for families who want to enjoy snow-based activities. It is also accessible and family-safe compared to other snow regions.
Top Attractions:
Skiing lessons for beginners
Auli Artificial Lake with beautiful views
Ropeway ride from Joshimath to Auli
Recommended For: Winter travelers and families who love snow.
7. Almora – The Cultural Heart of Kumaon
Why Visit:
Almora is known for its peaceful environment, rich culture, and scenic viewpoints. It offers a more authentic, less-commercial hill station experience.
Top Attractions:
Jageshwar Temple complex with ancient architecture
Bright End Corner for Himalayan sunrise views
Deer Park and local handicrafts market
Recommended For: Families interested in culture, peace, and nature.
8. Ranikhet – The Army Town in the Hills
Why Visit:
Ranikhet offers unspoiled beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. The military presence keeps the town clean and organized, making it family-friendly.
Top Attractions:
Jhula Devi Temple with countless bells
Chaubatia Orchards with apples and plums
Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Recommended For: Peace-seeking families and those interested in army heritage.
9. Chopta – Mini Switzerland of India
Why Visit:
Chopta is a picturesque meadow region that offers light trekking and panoramic Himalayan views. It’s a great introduction to trekking for children or beginners.
Top Attractions:
Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world
Chandrashila peak with a 360-degree view
Deoria Tal with camping and stargazing opportunities
Recommended For: Trekking beginners and families wanting a mountain escape.
10. Lansdowne – A Quiet Colonial-Era Town
Why Visit:
Lansdowne is a serene hill station with a colonial charm. It is ideal for families looking for peace, history, and light sightseeing.
Top Attractions:
Bhulla Lake for boating and paddle rides
Tip-in-Top viewpoint
Garhwal Rifles War Memorial and Museum
Recommended For: Elderly-friendly travel and quiet retreats.
Conclusion
Uttarakhand offers an unforgettable family travel experience through its diverse landscape, spiritual significance, and family-friendly destinations. Whether you're looking for peaceful hill stations, engaging treks, wildlife safaris, or spiritual experiences, this Himalayan state has everything to ensure a perfect family holiday.
Planning your itinerary based on the interests and age groups in your family can turn your trip into a balanced mix of fun, relaxation, and discovery. Uttarakhand continues to charm families year after year — not just for the scenery, but for the memories made together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand with family?
Answer: The best time to visit Uttarakhand is between March and June for pleasant weather and December to February for snow activities in Auli and Mussoorie.
Q2. Is Uttarakhand a good destination for children?
Answer: Yes, places like Nainital, Jim Corbett, and Auli are ideal for children due to boating, safaris, and snow activities. Many areas are family-safe and child-friendly.
Q3. How many days are enough for a family trip to Uttarakhand?
Answer: A well-planned 7 to 10-day trip allows you to explore 2–3 destinations comfortably, depending on travel distances and interests.
Q4. Are there any safety concerns while traveling in Uttarakhand?
Answer: Uttarakhand is generally safe for families. However, it’s advisable to take precautions in hilly terrain, check weather forecasts, and avoid night travel in the mountains.
Q5. Are there budget-friendly stay options for families?
Answer: Yes, most tourist spots in Uttarakhand offer a range of accommodations from budget hotels and homestays to premium resorts, catering to every budget and need.
