“No man needs a vacation so much as the man who has just had one.” – Elbert Hubbard
Haven’t we all felt the same? This especially happens when there has been chatter, frolic and endless laughs on a family vacation. Needless to say, there are experiences and hidden joys which you enjoy when you travel with your closest few (think of all the inside jokes you have!). But we often find ourselves short of places to visit for lack of knowledge or research or having visited most of them. Here is a compilation of offbeat vacation destinations in India, that you need to share on your family Whatsapp group now!
- Sikkim – This underrated hill state is simply unmissable! There is no dearth of beauty in this Buddhist state and if you couple it with Darjeeling (which actually falls in West Bengal), you have an excellent itinerary. Gangtok, the capital town is a hill station like no other, with spick and span streets, casinos and natural sights to behold! The dream-like Lachung will make you fall in love instantly and a plethora of waterfalls in North Sikkim will keep stopping you for pictures. Other places are Pelling, Yumthang Valley of Flowers and Nathu La pass, all in all making your family swoon over this state of bliss. Also, it is the only fully organic state in India so you will actually return healthier!
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands – Probably the best beach destination in India, Andaman Islands are the home of pristine white sand beaches and a resplendent growth of flora and fauna. The historically relevant Cellular Jail is a must see and was built by the British to house Indian political prisoners. Water sports is also a major family attraction here with everything you can think of doing in the endless azure seas – Scuba Diving, Para sailing, Snorkeling, Water Skiing etc. can make your trip filled with adrenaline loaded days. Other places are Havelock Island, National Parks, Museums and beach camping sites all making you want to extend your trip and never come back.
- Himachal Pradesh – As the state is too big to cover in one go, a trip to Manali – Bir Billing – Rohtang Pass – Solang Valley should be a good idea. Old Manali’s charm and the valley flavor will engulf you in nature’s finest sides. Any season except the rainy season is a good time to visit and many adventure activities like parasailing, rappelling, river crossing etc. are a must do in Bir Billing. For the trippy hearted, there is the quiet, undisturbed Kasol and for the shopping freaks New Manali has more to offer than you can imagine.
- Ooty – Located in Tamil Nadu, this hill station is a heaven for summer family travelers. Completely serene and cut away from the city hum drum, Ooty has many family friendly spots like the Ooty lake, Dodabetta peak, Marlimund lake and Pykara waterfalls. The Nilgiri hills offer spectacular views of the Blue Mountains and the town is replete with resorts and hotels of all kinds, giving you plenty of options to enjoy the amiable weather and wonderful people.
- Gokarna – Although Goa takes the cake when it comes to popular beach travels, Gokarna, which is 140 kms from Goa is a better, cleaner and fresher option for a fun holiday. The Yoga and wellness culture makes it all the more attractive and Om beach is a must visit. Kudle beach offers the best of both worlds with the beach surrounded by hills and rocks making it the prettiest site you’ve seen in years. For the young at heart and thrill seekers, there is Jet Skiing, Speed Boating, Banana boat rides and Kayaking. There is also a Mahabaleshvar Temple for the religiously curious, and several spiritual courses and retreats for mindfulness seekers, making it a fun package with your family.
