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Give Your Kids the Best Travel Stories to Tell This Summer
Yes the vacations are here! Are your bags packed yet? Did you make elaborate vacation plans? Most of us have hurried and hectic schedules. Its not possible for all tomake detailed vacation itinerary. But the school holidays are here, and the kids want their vacation, and we at DesignerIndya.com want your kids to have thrilling and unforgettable vacations.
So dont panic! Forget the last minute travel jitters. Dont fret about the destination! Just pick any of the vacation ideas given below and have a fantastic holiday and super happy children!
We did quite a bit of research to bring to you these ten destinations and experiences that children simply cant have enough of. Read on to know which are they, and where you are going to be travelling this summer.
1. Ride a Toy Train in Darjeeling
Nestled between the Himalayas and the dense eastern forests lies Darjeeling, a breathtaking hill station of Bengal. Darjeeling is a kaleidoscope of the majestic Himalayas, roaring waterfalls, immaculate tea-gardens and Victorian villas. This summer may be, you can show your kids the bountiful tea gardens where the famous Darjeeling tea comes from. Bask them in the pious first rays of sun at Tiger Hills, feel the glory of seeing the sun rise behind the Kanchenjunga. They say few sunrises in the world are as beautiful as Tiger Hills in Darjeeling.
But, most importantly ride the famous toy train of Darjeeling that twirls through the thick forests and hills, tea gardens, and quaint little hilly homes. It will be a fairytale come alive for your child.
2. Enjoy Summer Snow in Kashmir
What could possibly be more fun than snow in summers! How about a houseboat ride in Srinagar, or a trip in the highest cable car of the world? Known as the Switzerland of India, a Kashmir tour guarantees you snow, lakes, mountains, and much more.
The Gondola Cable Car ride that takes you to the skiing paradise of Gulmarg is thrilling and mesmerizing at the same time. Golf, fishing, and myriad other adventure activities to keep your kids busy are abound in Kashmir. Let your kids ski, row, and smile, take selfies in the white cottony snow, and have the best summer vacation of their life in Kashmir.
3. Trek, Fly and Camp in Magical Himachal
Shimla, Manali, Rohtang, Leh, Himachal is quite the travellers delight. This summer, get your cement and mortar surrounded children out of their urban jungles, and breath fresh air, hear the sounds of the roaring rivers, grab an apple from the tree directly, and feel the purity of Himachal in your veins.
Manali is probably the most famous camping destination in India. Take your toddlers and teenagers, and camp along the mighty Beas. If you and your family are the more adventurous sort, ride to Leh.
Trek through the lush landscapes and mild waterfalls in summer. Do some nerve tickling paragliding over the Kumaon Hills. Have warm delicious Maggie at 4000 mts high in Rohtang, and go avocado picking in a local garden. You will have to befriend a local for that first of course. With your bustling, energetic kids around, that should not be too difficult.
Make a trip to Himachal and give your kids a plethora of stories of beauty and bravery.
4. Experience Water Sports, History, Corals and Stunning Beaches at Andaman
Summers are a perfect time to visit this archipelago that is known for its crystal clear waters, remnants of the colonial era, virgin beaches and relaxing atmosphere.
Wondering how this romantic vacation for two could double as a kids-friendly escapade? Havelock Island in Andaman has been voted the best beach in Asia by Time Magazine. It is a hot spot for the best water sports in India. You and your kids can indulge in snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and much more. Then come back, and rest amidst the pristine sands and water. Now that’s what I call relaxation.
When in Andamans, you can also take a trip down history lane by visiting the multiple museums, home to remnants of British Raj, and recounting the horrific but historically important Kala Pani. Make it a point to enjoy the light and sound show at Port Blair in the evening that narrated the atrocities and sacrifices of Kala Pani.
Andaman is also known for its corals and marine life, something that you and your children should definitely take a dip into.
5. Live a New Culture in Shillong
What makes Shillong a perfect summer retreat is that, it really is away from the maddening crowds. Its still unexplored, untouched, not affected by rampant commercialism or excessive tourist influx. This summer take your family to experience Shillong and the Khasi life style in its authentic form.
There are multiple resorts on the outskirts of Shillong that give you a glimpse into Khasi cuisine, language, costume and lifestyle. Shillong is also a fashion-lovers paradise. So if your young boy or girl likes to stay abreast of trends, this is definitely a place to consider.
However, one thing that is an absolute must-do in Shillong is experiencing its enthralling music scene. Become young at heart again with your kids and visit one or more of the happening night clubs in Shillong. Lend an ear to the best domestic and international music bands. Who knows you could even run into an international celebrity in a club in Shillong! They frequent there often because of the vivid music scene.
Taking your kids to Shillong will definitely up your coolness quotient before the children too, especially the teenagers. Besides its wonderful for the family to bond over some amazing food and music.
So here are THE summer destinations to go to that will get the adrenaline pumping in your babies, and not burn a hole in your pocket. The best part will be, that your kids will have the funniest, cutest, and best travel stories to tell their friends when they return to school!
5 Places in India You Have to Visit Before Winter Comes
The temperatures are soaring through the roof, the scorching sun is definitely making its presence felt, and your heart is aching, mind is stirring and feet are itching! Arent they, and why not? Its summer, the time to stroke your wanderlust and move away from the maddening crowds of the city, to virgin meadows, flowing streams, snow-capped mountains, and valleys of flowers. We have compiled for you a list of exotic, beautiful, adventurous and fun–filled Indian destinations that you have to visit before the cold winter months sink in. So here are your dream escapades for summer and monsoon.
Colonial Kalimpong:-
Bengal does not only have the diamond called Darjeeling in its crown. 68 kms from Darjeeling lies a picturesque and bustling hill station called Kalimpong.Wild flowers, clouds playing hide and seek, the roaring Teesta River, swirling roads, and colonial cottages, all protected and guarded by the magnificent Himalayas- thats Kalimpong for you. Untouched, mysterious, incredibly beautiful, this hilly town will mesmerize you.
A perfect getaway for your summers and monsoon, have the most relaxed and calming vacation in one of the colonial properties like Morgan House, Silver Oaks or the quaint Soods retreat. Visit the multiple monasteries, and taste some wonderful local and European cuisine in these summer retreats. Even if it is some monsoon mush you are looking for, this is the destination to hit before the winters strike.
Unfettered Uttarakhand:-
Uttarakhand is beyond beautiful. Its not called Devbhumi or land of the Gods for nothing. Whether you are talking about the pilgrimage destinations of Kedar and Badri, the magical hill-stations of Nainital and Mussorie, or the yogic and adventure retreat of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand will leave you soaked in divinity, purity and enlightenment.Opting for one of these destinations, and giving the other a miss will leave you with a constant longing. Would you leave the delightful boating of Nainital, or the out-of-the-world experience of sipping tea at 12,000 feet high at Lal Tibba Mussorie, the world class river-rafting and bungee- jumping of Rishikesh, or the impenetrable piousness of Kedarnath? Which one will you choose and which one will you drop this summer?
Choose an Uttarakhand tour package instead, that lets you see the myriad beauties of this heavenly land and truly makes you realize why this is called Devbhumi. But beware ,because your heart will be stolen in these mountains and meadows of Uttarakhand.
Breathtaking Himachal:-
Blessed with some of the most scenic locations in the world, and climatic conditions that will make you forget its summer, Himachal is a delight for sore eyes and sun-burnt skins. Indulge in the serenity of Kasauli, the land of churches, orchards, and snow-clad peaks, or visit the honeymooners and trekkers paradise, Manali, Himachals most popular hill station along the banks of the majestic Beas river. Find your own slice of heaven in the Mini Switzerland of India, lush and gorgeous Khajjar, or experience natural springs and a Victorian home away from home in the much loved hill station Dalhousie.Curl up with a book in one of the quaint, colonial cafes of Shimla on Mall Road, or have the greatest adventure of your life trekking through Solang valley, or the famed Kunzum La Pass. You can also choose to simply do nothing, but just lose yourself to the spectacular view of the Chandratal lake. No matter what you do or dont do Himachal will take your breath away.
Parts of Himachal remain inaccessible and restricted to tourists during winter. So the best time to experience this wonderland is between May to October. So hurry up and start inquiring about your Himachal tours and packages now!
Dreamy Jammu and Kashmir:-
Kashmir is often referred to as the most beautiful place in India, the jewel in Indias crown, and a place of unparalleled and unimaginable beauty. How does such a place sound for your summer or monsoon vacation?Think clear blue skies, idyllic landscapes, fields of beautiful flowers, rugged mountain tops, stunning water bodies, soft cottony snow, and the delicate feel of cashmere and wool against your skin!
You heard that right! Whether you are visiting Kashmir in summer, monsoons, or winters, pack woollens because you are going to need them whether you are camping at Ladakh or enjoying an exquisite stay at a Shikara in Gulmarg, or simply a rejuvenating walk in the hills of Srinagar. Dont forget to take in the delectable local flavors and dress up in traditional Kashmiri gear. Salute the battleground of our bravehearts and pay your own silent respect to the grand Himalayas standing tall. Inquire about Kashmir tours and start planning your summer getaway to this revered and enchanting land.
Magical Kerala:-
If you are one of those who like to take the off-beat path, and prefer the calmer monsoons than the tourist-heavy summer and winter seasons to travel, Kerala should be your chosen destination this monsoon.Whether you are travelling with friends, family or your bae, Kerala offers something for everyone. The spicy Kerala cuisine and the mystic backwaters are perfect to be enjoyed with friends. Besides the spice, and the banana boat races are great conversation starters too! You might end up actually making a few new friends in Gods own country.
Kerala is a great leisure destination with its welcoming house-boats, home stays and luxurious resorts. All this makes it an ideal leisure destination for the family too. Visiting one of the famed Ayurveda retreats in Kerala in the picturesque monsoons can be a beautiful break from the cacophony of the city, and can rejuvenate your body and mind. The opulent cultural and religious elements in the state also make it a good family destination. Check out Kerala tours if you are looking to vacation with your family.
If you are thinking vacationing with your partner, monsoons are just oh-so-romantic. Kerala in monsoons is a ravishing beauty that will be a perfect bacground to your romantic rendezvous. Walking hand-in-hand on palm-kissed beaches, witnessing sunsets, relaxing on the houseboat in the backwaters, and sipping wine at night under the stars laden sky. What could possibly be more romantic! I am booking a Kerala tour monsoon package today, and I suggest you check out some monsoon packages yourself! You deserve a fantastic holiday and this is your chance!
Designer Indya 