Family Vacations

Top destinations for family vacations

Family vacations are an important part of everyone's life. From month-long winter or family summer vacations to impromptu breaks, the excitement of planning a vacation with your family is unmatched. While earlier a summer family vacation would be a trip to the closest town or one's grandparents house, today it is an event which requires serious planning skills. 

However, if you are short on time or want to save yourself the hassle of planning, family tour packages are the best options. Easy to book and customised according to budget, family tour packages are a great option when planning for family vacations.

All You Need To Know About Family Vacations

The most important thing to remember when planning a family vacation is that everyone's interests are taken care of. More the merrier is a great mantra if your family tour packages ensure that there is something for each member.

Another thing that one must remember when travelling with family is that there should be enough activities to keep children engrossed. If you have a cranky and bored child on a family vacation, it can get very difficult to manage. 

The best thing to do when you are travelling with family is to choose a child-friendly destination which gives you ample scope to change or alter plans. Another thing to remember when booking family tour packages is the accommodation. Since you are travelling with more members, each with a different travel styles, a fully-equipped hotel is a must.

How to plan family vacations

The one thing that you need to remember before planning family vacations is the duration of the trip and your budget. Since family vacations demand taking into account the schedule of various family members, it is typically planned around festive holidays or school vacations. This gives you an advantage of planning your family trip in advance and booking family tour packages much before the duration of your trip. 

Another thing to remember when planning family vacations is the duration of the trip and the number of places one plans to visit. Family trips give one an opportunity to cover a number of places and also to try activities that one would generally not include in a trip. So, the best would be to include as many places as possible with a busy itinerary.

What to pack for your family vacations

Remember that what you pack for your family trip needs to last you for the entire duration of your trip. While this fact may encourage you to pack your whole house, we recommend packing smart. Take only what you need with respect to clothes and shoes so you can include more basic necessities including medical aid, books for kids and snacks is a great idea.

Here’s a basic packing list for all kinds of family vacations:

1. Clothes for the entire duration of your trip
2. Warm clothes depending on the kind of place you are heading to
3. Shoes, flip flops
4. Socks (extra pair for each member)
5. Torch
6. Umbrellas
7. Basic medicines, bandaids
8. Chargers
9. Sunscreen, caps for kids
10.  Snacks including biscuits, protein bars which can come in handy during an emergency

Where to go for a family vacation in India 

If you are planning a family trip in India, there are a plethora of places which are not only child-friendly but also offer children an unforgettable experience. In fact, travelling is a great way of teaching little ones the importance of diversity in culture, the importance of preserving the environment and also more about history. 

Giving travellers numerous options, family tour packages are customised in an effort to ensure that all members of the family enjoy the trip. So whether you choose between the historical state of Madhya Pradesh, the coastal state of Orissa and the stunning Himachal Pradesh or the busy religious towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh – you can be assured of an unforgettable experience.

Let’s take a look at some of our favourite family trip destinations in India.

Himachal Pradesh

One of the most beautiful family vacation destinations, Himachal Pradesh promises a plethora of places to see and things to do. Full of small cities, busy towns and scenic villages, one can choose from numerous family tour packages for Himachal Pradesh. Another advantage of travelling to Himachal Pradesh is that one can cover more than two destinations in one holiday. 

For instance, if you have booked family tour packages for Shimla, you can customise your packages and include nearby towns of Mashobra, Chail and Sangla. Ideal for those who enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains and the pleasant weather, Himachal Pradesh family tour packages can be customised to plan either an adventurous holiday or a luxurious one. 

If you are travelling with little ones, we recommend including a trip to Shimla, Chail and Naldehra for a chance to experience umpteen picnic spots and also to experience a few adventure activities including horse riding and trekking. If you’d like to enjoy the beauty of snow-peaked mountains, we recommend booking family tour packages for Manali and Kufri in November, December or January. 

Cost: Planning a family vacation and booking family tour packages for Himachal Pradesh can cost you anywhere between Rs.45,000 to Rs.65,000.

Rajasthan

Packed with a bundle of exciting experiences, Rajasthan is one of the best places for family vacation. Whether you head to the busy capital of Jaipur or the lake city of Udaipur, you’ll be overwhelmed by heartwarming Rajasthani hospitality and the vibrant culture the state promises. 

If you are travelling in your car, we recommend planning a road trip across the state and covering three to four places. You can also book family tour packages for these cities so you don’t have to face the hassle of planning and booking hotels. Among the best places to visit in Rajasthan for a family vacation, we recommend including Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Ranthambore and Jaisalmer in your itinerary. 

Since you are in an erstwhile royal state, we recommend booking hotels which are restored palaces to experience a bygone era of grandeur.

Cost: A family vacation to Rajasthan can cost one anywhere between Rs.65,000 to Rs.85,000 depending on the kind of family tour packages one is booking. 

Agra

Agra is one of the best family tour destinations in India. Complete with historical sites, natural beauty, old forts and a warm culture, it’s a preferred family vacation. To truly enjoy the beauty of Agra, we recommend booking family tour packages for five to seven days so you can also cover neighbouring towns and cities. Among the most notable things to include in your Agra itinerary, we recommend including a visit to the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Fort and the local bazaars. 

One can also include moonlight tours to the Taj Mahal to experience a different side of the renowned wonder. For those who enjoy adventure, we recommend booking a cycling tour in your family tour packages to explore the city in this unique way. 

For those who are planning a long trip to Agra, we recommend covering the nearby cities of Delhi, Jaipur and smaller towns such as Mathura, Vrindavan and Bharatpur. 

Cost: The cost of a family vacation to Agra will depend on your itinerary and the inclusions in family tour packages. Typical costs can be anywhere between Rs.60,000 to Rs.75,000. 

Jim Corbett and Nainital

Jim Corbett and Nainital are counted among the best spots for a family vacation. Promising everything from natural beauty, great local cuisine, warm hospitality to adventure, shopping and historical tours, the two cities are ideal for family trips. Of course, since you are covering two places in one trip, it’s recommended to book family tour packages to save yourself the trouble of booking hotels and transfers. 

While Jim Corbett offers one an interesting combination of wildlife and luxury, Nainital promises natural beauty, great food and adventure. Giving you the best of both worlds, if you are looking for a complete family vacation destination, there can’t be a better choice. Jim Corbett is also home to some of the best resorts in north India. Promising luxury, efficient service and an unforgettable experience amidst nature, these resorts will add charm to your family vacation. 

On the other hand, hotels and resorts in Nainital have changed in the last decade. Today traditional hotels are being replaced by local homestays which offer travellers an authentic experience amidst surreal beauty. Complete with local food, wooden, rustic furniture and verdant gardens, these homestays are ideal for an unforgettable experience in the mountains. 

Cost: A family vacation to Nainital and Jim Corbett can cost you anywhere between Rs.45,000 to Rs.75,000 depending on the kind of accommodation you choose.

Kanyakumari

One of the most beautiful family vacation spots in south India, Kanyakumari is situated at the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. Promising mesmerising views of the surrounding mountains and the vast sea, a visit here tends to stay with travellers for a long time.

A major centre for trade, religion, art and culture, Kanyakumari is the only place in India where one can admire the sunrise and the sunset at the same beach. A fact which is sure to fascinate children. Full of sacred temples and stunning beaches, Kanyakumari is visited by travellers from across the world. One of the most important places in the city is the Bhagavathy Amman Temple or the Kumari Amman. Dedicated to Goddess Kumari Amman, the temple which is mentioned in all holy scriptures and also gives the town its name. 

But what captures the attention of travellers and keeps them hooked is the majestic statue of Vivekananda. Also known as Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the landmark statue is visited by thousands every day. The area around the statue also has a meditation hall for visitors to spend time in peace and meditate. 

Among other places to visit around Kanyakumari, travellers must include a visit to Kanyakumari beach as well as to other small waterfalls in the city. If you’d like to save yourself the trouble of planning an itinerary, we recommend booking family tour packages for Kanyakumari which will take care of your hotel bookings and itinerary.

Cost: A family vacation to Kanyakumari can cost one anywhere between Rs.75,000 to Rs.90,000 depending on the kind of family tour packages you book.

Where to go for a family destination abroad 

The most important thing to remember when planning international family vacations is the visa process and booking flight tickets at least a few months in advance. This helps in bringing down your vacation budget and also saves you the trouble of last-minute running around. 

Since planning for international tour packages for family demands more time and effort, we recommend deciding a budget and simply booking family tour packages for the destination of your choice. Here’s a list of our favourite international family vacation destinations.

Abu Dhabi

Counted among the best family holiday destinations, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable holiday. The largest of the seven Emirates, it is home to a number of historical monuments, mosques and theme parks and gives travellers an opportunity to discover a new culture. If you are travelling with little ones, we recommend booking family tour packages for Abu Dhabi without another thought. 

Among the best places to see in Abu Dhabi on your family vacation, we recommend visiting the Emirate Palace, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, Yas Island and Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. Yas island is one of the most popular attractions in Abu Dhabi and a part of all family tour packages. 

Abu Dhabi is also home to some of the best hotels in the world which ensure that travellers receive the best of Abu Dhabi’s heartwarming hospitality and a plethora of modern amenities. 

Cost: Since Abu Dhabi is a luxurious destination, a family vacation can cost anywhere between Rs.1,10,000 to Rs.1,50,000. 

Singapore

Singapore has gradually become one of the most popular destinations for family vacations. A modern city, it is one of the most visited destinations in the world and travellers love it for the variety of experiences it offers. If you are looking for a family vacation destination which offers you a little bit of everything, we recommend booking family tour packages for this dazzling country. 

What stands out about Singapore is the huge number of things it offers. From spellbinding gardens, glittering shopping malls, beautiful islands to the bustling city centre, the popular zoo and lively food streets – there is something for everyone. We recommend keeping aside at least 4 to 5 days for Singapore for your family vacation since there is much to see and do. 

It’s also recommended to book accommodation in the city so you don’t spend too much time in travelling.

Cost: A family vacation to Singapore can cost one anywhere between Rs.1,50,000 to Rs.2,00,000.

Thailand

If you are looking for an action-packed family vacation, there can’t be a better place than Thailand. Offering travellers a peek into the world of Buddhism, Thailand is one of the most visited family vacation spots. 

If you are travelling with a large group of family members, you can include a number of experiences in your itinerary so that there is something for everyone. From historical monuments, thick forests, pristine beaches to grand shopping malls, floating markets, a busy nightlife and delicious food, your Thailand itinerary will be packed with experiences. 

If it’s your first visit to Thailand, we recommend including all the popular tourist spots as well as a few lesser-known getaways to experience the quiet side of the country. Among the best places to visit in Thailand, Bangkok, Koh Samui, Pattaya and Phi Phi Islands stand out for their beauty, popularity and the plethora of things they offer. 

Another great thing about travelling to Thailand for a family vacation is the stunning hotels and resorts, especially in the beach towns. If you are travelling with more than four members of your family, you can easily include a villa in your family tour packages to enjoy the beauty of Thailand amidst luxury. 

Cost: Family tour packages for a family vacation to Thailand can cost anywhere between Rs.1,20,000 to Rs.2,00,000.

Sri Lanka

A world within a world, Sri Lanka is one of the best family vacation destinations, especially if you are travelling on a budget. A perfect example of a complete destination, Sri Lanka is ideal for those who enjoy covering numerous places in one trip. 

The country is home to some of the most gorgeous places in the world including Kandy, Galle, Colombo, Mirissa and Sigiriya. If you want to introduce your little ones to history, culture and wildlife – Sri Lanka is an ideal option. Since the country offers quite a few places to explore, we recommend booking family tour packages for at least seven to ten days. 

For history lovers, Galle and Sigiriya must be a part of your itinerary while for wildlife enthusiasts, we recommend a trip to Yala National Park. Said to have the highest population of leopards in the world, a visit to Yala National Park is the ideal way to introduce your little ones to nature and wildlife. 

If you are booking family tour packages for Sri Lanka, we recommend booking accommodation in a few local homestays and guesthouses to experience the warm hospitality of locals. 

Cost: A family vacation to Sri Lanka can cost one anywhere between Rs.90,000 to Rs.2,50,000. 

Australia

Looking for an ideal adventurous spot for a family vacation? Australia is your answer. Promising travellers a glimpse of nature’s blessings, Australia is for those who enjoy the outdoors and can’t do without an itinerary full of adventure activities. The country is also a great option for a family vacation if you are looking for child-friendly experiences and want to introduce your child to the dazzling world of nature. 

Home to the Great Barrier Reef, Australia is ideal for water activities including snorkelling and deep-sea diving. At the same time, travellers have an opportunity of including numerous national parks in their itinerary. Among the most popular national parks in Australia and one that must be part of all family tour packages is Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park. 

While covering the entire continent in one trip might be difficult, travellers can cover quite a few places in their family vacation including Brisbane, Darwin, Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmania. Depending on the time you have in your itinerary, we recommend spending at least a couple of days in each city since there is a lot to discover and explore.

Cost: Owing to the variety of experiences Australia offers, it’s slightly expensive and travellers have to spend anywhere between Rs.2,00,000 to Rs.3,50,000 on their family vacation.

FAQs

Which are the safest places for a family vacation in India?

The safest places for a family vacation in India are Jaipur, Delhi, Mahabaleshwar, Agra, Puri, Kerala, Hampi, Kanha Tiger Reserve and Udaipur.

How much do family tour packages for an Indian destination cost?

Family tour packages for an Indian family vacation can cost anywhere between Rs.35,000 to Rs.2,50,000. This amount will depend on the duration of your family vacation and the kind of trip you have booked. There are a variety of family tour packages and depending on your budget, you can book any.

Which are the best places for a family vacation in south India?

The best places for family vacations in south India are Pondicherry, Coorg, Munnar, Periyar National Park, Alleppey, Coonoor, Yellagiri and Kumarakom. 

How much do international family vacations cost?

International family vacations can cost anywhere between Rs.2,50,000 to Rs.4,50,000 depending on the kind of family vacation you are planning. 

Which are the most child-friendly destinations in the world?

Before booking family tour packages, it’s very important to know if the destination is child-friendly. If you head to a destination which has nothing to offer for children, chances are you are going to have a difficult time. Among the best family vacation destinations in the world, here are some of our favourites – Japan, Singapore, Australia, India, Spain, Malaysia and New Zealand.

Which are the best religious destinations for a family vacation in India?

The best religious destinations for a family vacation in India are Varanasi, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Katra, Mathura, Vrindavan, Amritsar, Shirdi and Mahabaleshwar.

Which are the best luxurious family vacation destinations?

The best luxurious family vacation destinations are Kerala, Bali, Thailand, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Australia, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Spain.

What are three important tips for a family vacation in India?

The three most important tips for a family vacation in India are:

1. Planning in advance: If you plan your family vacation in advance, you can save a lot of time and money.
2. Prepare for change in plans since some delays are inevitable: Don’t plan your trip according to a tight schedule since that might lead to increased costs should there be any changes.
3. Make sure your hotel is comfortable: Spend a little extra if you have to but when you are travelling with little ones, having a comfortable hotel goes a long way in making your family vacation smoother and more comfortable.

Which are the best adventure spots for family vacations in India?

The best adventure spots for a family vacation in India are Bir and Billing, Rishikesh, Manali, Andaman, Goa, Sikkim and Auli.

Which are the best family vacation spots in the world for kids?

If you are travelling with children on a family vacation, there are a number of things that one needs to remember. The most important thing is that your family vacation spot should be child-friendly and should offer a plethora of memorable experiences. The best family vacation spots in the world for kids are Australia, Portugal, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Costa Rica and South Africa.