Uttarakhand—the “Devbhumi,” the Land of the Gods—isn’t just for temple-hopping grown-ups or trekking junkies.
It’s a total wonderland for kids too.
Think snowball fights.
Think jungle safaris.
Think cable cars, river camping, giant lakes, and whispering pine forests.
For families, that is Uttarakhand. This is the place for you if you’re organising your next family vacation and you’re looking for a destination that’s not only stunning but also fun, safe, and full of the wonders of nature. These? These are Uttarakhand’s top tourist destinations for families.
Yep. That’s Uttarakhand for families.
Tried. Tested. Loved.
By parents. By children. By happy travel stories.
1. Nainital – A Hill Station Straight Out of a Storybook
Nainital isn’t just popular. It’s practically built for childhood memories.
Colorful boats. A sparkling lake. Hidden caves. Misty mountains that feel like fairyland.
Why the place is loved by kids
Paddle boating on Naini Lake (bonus: feed ducks!)
Ropeway ride to Snow View Point—up, up, up!
Eco Cave Gardens—mini adventure tunnels and fun echoes
Nainital Zoo—red pandas, snow leopards, and other animals.
Best time to visit: March to June or September to November
Family tip: Mall Road gets crowded. Go light on luggage. Pack smart. Enjoy more.
2. Jim Corbett National Park – The Jungle Book Come Alive
If your child’s ever dreamed of being Mowgli… bring them here.
Jim Corbett is India’s oldest national park, and it’s got serious wild charm.
Big trees. Wild animals. Jeep rides. It’s all one giant adventure.
Why it is loved by kids
Jeep safaris (safe + thrilling)
Spotting elephants (yup, real ones)
Corbett Museum—animal stories come alive
Birds. So many colorful birds.
Best time to visit: November to June
Family tip: Book safaris in advance. Holiday rush = no slots. Trust us.
3. Rishikesh – Yoga, Yes. But Also Bonfires and Marshmallows
Yes, Rishikesh is spiritual. But also… super fun.
It’s a top spot for families with slightly older kids who enjoy outdoorsy stuff and a sprinkle of peace.
Why it is loved by kids
Soft rafting in the Ganga (older kids only!)
Ganga Aarti at dusk—glistening and heartfelt Laughing, ghost stories, and bonfires while camping beneath the stars
Beatles Ashram—graffiti + nature + a little history
Best time to visit: February to May, September to November
Family tip: Use certified rafting operators with proper child-friendly options. Safety first.
4. Mussoorie – Fairy-Tale Feels in the Clouds
Mussoorie is dreamy. Classic. Kids love it. Parents love it. Even grumpy teens lighten up.
Candy shops. Waterfalls. Pony ride, and many more things.
Why it is loved by kids
Kempty Falls – splash and play
Gun Hill Ropeway – cable cars + great views
Camel’s Back Road – ponies, walks, and laughs
Mall Road – ice creams, toys, and cozy cafés
Best time to visit: March to June
Family tip: Head out early in the day. Avoid weekends if you can. Crowds = chaos.
5. Auli – Ski, Slide, Smile
Want your kids to see snow for the first time? Take them to Auli.
It’s calm. Cold. And kind of magical.
Why it is loved by kids
Beginner ski classes—safe and guided
Snowball fights, sledding, snowmen galore
Asia’s longest cable car from Joshimath to Auli
Views of Nanda Devi—they’ll gasp, you might tear up
Best time to visit:
For snow – December to March
For green slopes – April to June
Family tip: Carry gloves. Not mittens. Gloves. Tiny fingers will thank you.
6. Bhimtal – Nainital’s Quieter, Cooler Cousin
Want the lake experience without the crowd and honking? Bhimtal’s your guy.
It’s peaceful. Clean. So good for younger kids.
Why it is loved by kids
Boating on Bhimtal Lake
Aquarium in the middle of the lake (so cool)
Butterfly Research Centre – colorful, fun, and surprising
Nature trails—walks that don’t feel like effort
Best time to visit: All year (skip the monsoon though)
Family tip: Pack snacks. Let the kids explore. This place is perfect for slow days.
7. Ranikhet – Pine Fresh & Picture-Perfect
If you’re after calm, Ranikhet wins. It’s that peaceful, pine-scented place where screens get forgotten.
Oh, and there are apple orchards too.
Why it is loved by kids
Chaubatia Gardens – butterflies, flowers, fruits!
Jhula Devi Temple – bells, bells, and more bells
Picnic spots with real Himalayan views
Big open grounds = run wild time
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
Family tip: Carry a picnic mat. No phones. Just nature and laughter.
8. Mukteshwar – Quiet, Curious, and Absolutely Underrated
This one’s for the curious kids. The ones who ask 101 questions before breakfast.
Mukteshwar is calm, clean, and kinda genius.
Why it is loved by kids
Indian Veterinary Research Institute – science + animals = awesome
Dairy farms – hands-on, smelly, but fun
Orchard trails and epic views
Spend a night stargazing,- under the black and clear sky where stars are visible ( not like delhi pollution)
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November
tip: Perfect for kids who love nature and who are easy to mould themselves in surrounding
Family tip – perfect for kids who loves nature and who are easy to smudge with surrounding
Altitude matters – Don’t rush straight to high-altitude towns. Ease it slowly with time
Layer it up – Hill weather is moody. Sweaters + tees = smart.
Bathroom breaks – Plan them. Especially on long, winding roads.
Take breaks – Let the kids breathe. Don’t over-plan every hour.
Snacks – Always. For the kids and you.
Read More – Top 10 Best Preschool Franchise
Final Thoughts
Family trips to Uttarakhand?
They’re not just vacations.
They’re mini adventures with giggles, gasps, and grassy rolls.
Your kids will learn. They’ll run barefoot (maybe). They will gaze at the stars and toss snowballs. Every location has an impact, whether it’s the serenity of Bhimtal or the excitement of Corbett, the snow in Auli or the hues of Mussoorie.
So don’t just plan a trip.
Plan a memory-making expedition.
Let the mountains teach your kids something screens never can.
Go. Explore. Laugh louder. Sleep under stars.
And maybe… let Uttarakhand raise your children just a little.
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