If you’re planning a family trip and wondering where to go, these places to visit in Uttarakhand for families are some of the easiest and most peaceful options in North India. You’ve got spiritual spots like Haridwar and Rishikesh that are great for elders, clean hill stations like Mussoorie and Nainital for relaxing walks and boating, and even snow-filled getaways like Auli for kids to enjoy. The roads are well connected, hotels are family-friendly, and most places have decent food options and light sightseeing—so you’re not running around or dealing with too much hassle. It’s the kind of trip where everyone, from grandparents to little ones, can just enjoy the weather, views, and time together.
Table of Contents
1. Haridwar
Haridwar is one of the top places to visit in Uttarakhand for families, especially if you’re planning a spiritual trip. It’s easy to reach, not too crowded, and has a peaceful vibe that suits all age groups. Families can attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, visit temples like Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi by ropeway, and enjoy simple street food. The city is clean, safe, and walkable—making it a great place to spend time with parents, kids, or grandparents.
- Visit Har Ki Pauri for evening Ganga Aarti.
- Explore Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi temples via cable car.
- Visit Bharat Mata Mandir and enjoy local street food.
- Take a holy dip in the Ganges (safe spots available for families).
How to Reach Haridwar:
- By Train: Haridwar Junction is well connected to Delhi, Dehradun, and other major cities.
- By Road: Around 5–6 hours from Delhi; easy highway route via NH334.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Dehradun (Jolly Grant), about 40 km away.
Best Time to Visit Haridwar:
- Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to high water levels and slippery paths.
- October to March for pleasant weather and peaceful darshans.
2. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one of the most relaxed and safe places to visit in Uttarakhand for families, especially if you want a mix of spirituality, nature, and a little light adventure. You can attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, walk across Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula, or visit peaceful ashrams and cafes along the river. There’s no rush here—just quiet vibes, clean surroundings, and a lot to explore at your own pace. It’s a great stop if you’re travelling with kids, parents, or senior members.
How to Reach Rishikesh:
- By Train: Nearest station is Haridwar (25 km), then a short drive to Rishikesh.
- By Road: 5–6 hours from Delhi via NH334; smooth and scenic drive.
- By Air: Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant) is just 20 km away and well-connected.
Best Time to Visit Rishikesh:
- October to April for clear skies and pleasant weather.
- Avoid peak summer afternoons and monsoon months (July–August) if travelling with elders or small kids.
3. Char Dham Yatra
Char Dham Yatra is a top spiritual circuit and one of the most important places to visit in Uttarakhand for families. It includes Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. The route is well-managed now with proper road access, decent hotels, and support services like ponies, palkis, and helicopter tours—making it suitable for senior citizens and kids with advance planning.
How to Reach Char Dham:
- By Road: Start from Haridwar, Dehradun, or Rishikesh. The full circuit takes around 10–12 days by road.
- By Helicopter: Available from Dehradun, covering all four dhams in 3–4 days.
- Nearest airports: Dehradun (Jolly Grant) is the main entry point for helicopter and road tours.
Best Time to Visit Char Dham:
- Avoid monsoon (late July to August) due to rain and landslides. Plan early for better hotels and smoother travel.
- May to early July and September to mid-October are the best months.
4. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand for families with kids. It has easy slopes, a Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations and among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand for families. It has an easy-going vibe, pleasant weather, and family-friendly spots like Kempty Falls, Company Garden, and Mall Road. Short walks, ropeway rides, cafes, and scenic viewpoints make it a great pick for parents and kids alike.
How to Reach Mussoorie:
- By Road: 1.5 hours (35 km) from Dehradun; smooth uphill drive.
- By Train: Nearest station is Dehradun; then take a cab or bus.
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (60 km away).
Best Time to Visit Mussoorie:
- Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) due to heavy rains and slippery roads.
- March to June and September to November for best weather.
5. Auli
Auli is one of the best snow destinations and a great place to visit in Uttarakhand for families, especially in winter. It’s known for skiing, cable car rides, and clear mountain views. Families can enjoy snow play, short treks, and peaceful stays in and around Auli. It’s clean, less crowded, and safe for all age groups.
How to Reach Auli:
- By Road: Reach Joshimath first, then take the cable car or drive 10 km uphill to Auli.
- By Train: Nearest station is Rishikesh (around 260 km), then drive via Chamoli.
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (around 270 km away).
Best Time to Visit Auli:
- April to June for clear skies, greenery, and mountain views. Avoid travel during the monsoon.
- December to March for snow and skiing.
6. Nainital
Nainital is a classic hill station and one of the most popular places to visit in Uttarakhand for families. The town is centered around Naini Lake, with boating, temple visits, and scenic walks on Mall Road. It’s easy to get around and offers plenty of family-friendly activities like cable car rides, Eco Cave Garden, and day trips to nearby lakes.
How to Reach Nainital:
- By Road: About 7 hours from Delhi via Haldwani.
- By Train: Nearest station is Kathgodam (35 km), then take a cab or bus.
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport (70 km); limited flights available.
Best Time to Visit Nainital:
- March to June for pleasant weather and boating.
- October to December for cooler weather and clear views.
7. Jim Corbett
Jim Corbett is one of the top wildlife destinations and a family favorite among all the places to visit in Uttarakhand for families. It offers jungle safaris, nature walks, and riverside stays that kids and adults both enjoy. The park is well-managed with different safari zones, making it safe and exciting even for first-timers.
How to Reach Jim Corbett:
- By Road: Around 6–7 hours from Delhi via Moradabad and Ramnagar.
- By Train: Nearest station is Ramnagar (just 10–15 km from most resorts).
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport (85 km away); drive takes around 2.5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett:
- Avoid July to September as the park remains mostly closed during monsoon.
- November to June is ideal for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities.
Travel Tips for Families Visiting Uttarakhand
- Pre-book hotels during peak seasons.
- Avoid late-night travel in hilly areas with kids or elders.
- Pack medicines, warm clothes, and rain gear irrespective of season.
- Choose family-friendly vehicles like Innova, Ertiga, or tempo travellers.
- Avoid long treks with elders or toddlers—stick to cable cars or light walking routes.
