15 Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand in Summer with Family -

As summer temperatures rise across India, the cool mountain air of Uttarakhand beckons families seeking relief from the heat. If you and your family are also looking for a respite from the summer heat, then this write-up of the top places to visit in Uttarakhand in summer is for you

With its lush forests, sprawling meadows, pleasant weather, rushing rivers, sparkling streams, and cascading waterfalls, Uttarakhand is the perfect summer retreat. This popular state boasts a wide range of breathtaking locations, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation.

So, without wasting any time, let’s start our list of tourist places to visit in Uttarakhand during summer. Go through with it and plan your summer escape:

List of 20 Famous Tourist Places in Uttarakhand in Summer with Family

Here are the popular places to visit in Uttarakhand in Summer with family, where you can spend quality time with your loved ones amidst the serene nature.

Dhanaulti

Nestled at an altitude of 2,286 m above sea level, Dhanaulti is settled at a unique location away from the hustle-bustle. Encompassed by lofty mountain peaks in the Tehri region of Garhwal, Dhanaulti is among the best places to visit in Uttarakhand with family in summer due to its pleasant weather. This quaint hill town is perfect for those who wish to relax and unwind amidst nature.

Tourist attractions in Dhanaulti: Adventure Park, Eco Park, Tehri Dam, Deogarh Fort, Kanatal Adventure Camp, Dashavatar Temple
Things to do in Dhanaulti with Family: Trekking, camping, nature walk, sky walking, sky bridging

How to reach Dhanaulti: Dehradun railway station is the nearest railhead (35 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the primary airport that serves Dhanaulti (50 km) To know more about how to reach Dhanaulti click here!

Book our 4 days Mussoorie Dhanaulti tour package.

Nainital

When considering famous places to visit in Uttarakhand, Nainital stands out as a must-see destination. Known as the “City of Lakes,” Nainital is situated on the shores of Naini Lake in the Kumaon region. Its moderate climate makes it an ideal location for family visits, especially during the months of May and June. This charming hill station has preserved its old-world charm and is adorned with colonial architecture that adds to its beauty. It serves as a perfect weekend getaway for tourists from Delhi and nearby areas.

Tourist attractions in Nainital: Naini Lake, Tiffin Top, Snow View Point, High Altitude Zoo, Eco Garden, Naina Devi Temple
Things to do in Nainital with family in Summer: Boat ride, cable car ride, trekking, horse ride, speed boating
How to reach Nainital: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (35 km) Pantnagar Airport is the primary airport that serves Nainital (65 km). To know more details how to reach Nainital.

Spend a relaxing weekend with family in Nainital with our customizable tour packages. Before you visit, here are important things to know about Nainital:

Kausani

Kausani is a charming hill station situated in the snow-capped Himalayas, famous for its breathtaking scenery. It is located at an elevation of 1,890 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level in the Bageshwar district. From Kausani, visitors can enjoy a stunning 300-kilometer view of majestic Himalayan peaks, including Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. This destination is a true paradise for nature lovers and families and is considered one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand during the summer with family.

Tourist attractions in Kausani: Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Baijnath Temple, Gwaldam, Kausani Tea Estate, Pinnath, Sumitranandan Pant Museum, Stargate Observatory
Things to do in Kausani with family: Trek to Pinnath, camping, hike, observe celestial objects in Stargate Observatory
How to reach Kausani: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (135 km). Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (165 km)

Plan a peaceful vacation with Uttarakhand tour package for 10 days

Mussoorie

With the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas, Mussoorie is the erstwhile summer capital of British India. Nestled at an altitude of 7,000 feet above sea level in the lap of the Shivalik range, this colonial hill resort is dotted with architectural marvels. The British remnants in the city enhance the charm of this popular tourist destination of Uttarakhand. The pristine scenic beauty and calm surroundings provide moments of utmost serenity.

Tourist attractions in Mussoorie: Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, Lake Mist, Kempty Fall, Landour, Bhatta Falls, Company Garden, Mall Road, Jharipani Falls
Things to do in Mussoorie with family in Summer: Trekking, camping, paragliding, rappelling, rock climbing, boating, fishing
How to reach Mussoorie: Dehradun railway station is the nearest railhead (35 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (60 km). To know more details about how to reach Mussoorie. Click Here!

Browse through our tailor-made Mussoorie family packages

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Lansdowne

A beautiful yet lesser-explored hill station of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is situated at an altitude of 5,840 feet amidst thick oak and pine forest. Founded by a military garrison during British rule, this charming hill town is an ideal destination to visit in Uttarakhand in July with family. It is a haven for bird watchers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers. If you enjoy these activities, this place deserves a spot on your list of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand during the summer with family. Also Read: Best Time to Visit Lansdowne How to Reach Lansdowne

Tourist attractions in Lansdowne: Bhulla Lake, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Tip N Top, St. John Church, Snow Viewpoint and Hawaghar
Things to do in Lansdowne in Summer: Boat ride, trekking, camping
How to reach Lansdowne: Dehradun railway station is the nearest railhead (35 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (60 km).

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Ranikhet

One of the most beautiful hill stations in Uttarakhand, Ranikhet, is tucked away in the picturesque Kumaon Himalayas. The name of this small hilly town translates to ‘Queen’s meadow’, fringed by lofty mountains and dense forests. Offering breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi peak and retaining the colonial-era charm, Ranikhet is blessed with immense natural beauty, which makes it a popular tourist destination for families in summer. The peaceful environment soothes a city dweller’s nerves.

Book our customized Ranikhet family tour packages for a fun holiday.

Tourist attractions in Ranikhet: Majhkhali, Bhalu Dam, Chaubatia Orchards, Dwarahat, Golf Course, Haidakhan Babaji Temple, Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, Katarmal Sun Temple
Things to do in Ranikhet in summer with family: Golfing, nature walks, camping, zorbing, zip-lining, fishing, trekking, paragliding
How to reach Ranikhet: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (74 km). Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (109 km).

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Auli

Situated at an altitude of 2,800 m above sea level, Auli is a popular skiing destination in India. Glittering slopes, snow-draped mountains, and coniferous forests enhance the charm of this beautiful hill town. Home to the mountain ranges of Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat mountains, Auli is blessed with lush and flower-carpeted meadows in summer. The pleasant weather makes it the best destination in Uttarakhand for the summer holidays. The sapphire blue lake is the main attraction of this idyllic hill town, which is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world.

Enjoy snow fun with your kids with our customized Auli family tour packages

Tourist attractions in Auli: Auli Lake, Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Rudraprayag, Chenab Lake
Things to do in Auli: Skiing, trekking, camping, cable car ride
How to reach Auli: Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railhead (234 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (189 km)

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You can also book Auli tour packages from Delhi

Binsar

Binsar, once a summer residence for the Chand kings, is a picturesque town nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 2,420 meters above sea level, this stunning destination is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families. The snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests enhance the charm of this small hill town, making it a truly beautiful getaway.

Offbeat traveler? Check out these 12 Most Beautiful Offbeat Places in Uttarakhand.

Tourist attractions in Binsar: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, Kasar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Golu Devta Temple
Things to do in Binsar: Trekking, camping, bird watching, photography, wildlife spotting, nature walk
How to reach Binsar: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (105 km) Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (139 km)

Munsiyari

Known as ‘Mini Kashmir’, Munsiyari is a quaint village that serves as a base for three glaciers: Namik, Milam, and Ralam. Located at an altitude of 2,298 meters above sea level and situated along the banks of the Goriganga River, Munsiyari boasts stunning scenery and remarkable weather throughout the year. Munsiyari, set against the stunning backdrop of Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, and Nanda Kot, is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand during the summer. This charming destination resembles a fairyland in the warmer months and provides an ideal escape from the heat of the plains of India.

Check out our 5 days Munsiyari Pithoragarh Tour package.

Tourist attractions in Munsiyari: Birthi Falls, Maheshwari Kund, Kalamuni Top, Thamari Kund, Khaliya Top, and Nanda Devi Temple
Things to do in Munsiyari: River rafting, trekking, camping, skiing, bird watching
How to reach Munsiyari: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (275 km) Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (370 km).

Thrill seeker? Here are the top Adventure Sports in Uttarakhand You Must Try On Your Next Visit

Bhimtal

Bhimtal is another wonderful family-friendly attraction in Uttarakhand that’s perfect for summer vacations. This fascinating lake city is situated at an altitude of 1,370 meters above sea level. Named after the mythical man or woman Bhima from the epic Mahabharata, Bhimtal boasts a rich cultural historical past and a plethora of journey activities that make it an excellent vacation spot for households. Surrounded by means of lush forests of oak, pine, and deodar bushes, this picturesque hill city gives a tranquil retreat far from the hustle and bustle of metropolis existence. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely boat ride on the serene waters of the lake or embarking on thrilling out of doors adventures, Bhimtal guarantees a rejuvenating get away for tourists of every age. Add Bhimtal for your Uttaranchal excursion itinerary for a memorable weekend getaway from Delhi and nearby cities.

Tourist attractions in Bhimtal: Hanuman Garhi, Bhimtal Lake, Aquarium of Bhimtal Island, Victoria Dam, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
Things to do in Bhimtal: Fishing, boating, camping, stargazing, hiking, horse riding
How to reach Bhimtal: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (21 km) Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (58 km).

Plan your Uttarakhand Family trip with our customized tour packages

Harsil

Perched at an elevation of 2,620 m above sea level, Harsil is located in the lap of the Himalayas on the bank of the Bhagirathi River and is encompassed by dense deodar trees. This quaint hill town boasts the gurgling river, scenic vistas, lush greenery, and sparkling streams. Harsil is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand with family during summer and a perfect place for nature lovers. This secluded hill station is home to several adventure trekking routes and offers a rejuvenating experience, which offers an impeccable traveling experience.

Tourist attractions in Harsil: Dharali, Mukhwas Village, Sattal, Gangnani, Gangotri Temple
Things to do in Harsil: Trekking, bird watching, taking a dip in hot water springs, nature walk
How to reach Harsil: Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railhead (235 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (234 km).

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Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is a wonderful summer destination for families. This town is often called “Little Kashmir” because of its stunning beauty, as it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It is also a popular stopover for pilgrims on their journey to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Bounded by Nepal in the east and Tibet in the north, Pithoragarh is dotted with ancient temples, a majestic fort, a lush green forest, and tiny hamlets.

Tourist attractions in Pithoragarh: Dharali, Mukhwas Village, Sattal, Gangnani, Gangotri Temple
Things to do in Pithoragarh with family: Fishing, trekking, paragliding, river rafting
How to reach Pithoragarh: Tanakpur railway station is the nearest railhead (147 km) Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (240 km).

Explore the best of Pithoragarh with our tastefully-crafted packages.

Kanatal

Kanatal is a serene paradise, perfect for those seeking peace and solitude, situated near a major tourist destination and a popular weekend getaway from Delhi. Nestled in the Himalayas and surrounded by lush green forests, Kanatal features ancient temples, apple orchards, and deep valleys. This quaint hamlet is a perfect place to experience mystical magic and an amazing hill station to visit in summer with family. There are a plethora of activities that tourists can enjoy including relaxing and unwinding amidst nature.

Tourist attractions in Kanatal: Surkanda Devi Temple, Tehri Lake, Kodia Forest, New Tehri, Eco Park
Things to do in Kanatal: Boating, camping, trekking, bird watching, river rafting
How to reach Kanatal: Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railhead (78 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (81 km).

Almora

Renowned for its alluring charm, Almora is a perfect escape from the hustle-bustle and rejuvenate amidst serene nature. Cradled in the lap of the Himalayas, this quaint tiny hamlet boasts of rich colonial heritage and architectural marvels. This is one of the coldest places to visit in Uttarakhand in June with family & friends and an amazing refuge from the scorching heat of the plains.

Tourist attractions in Almora: Zero Point, Jageshwar Dham, Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Dunagiri, Kasar Devi, Jalna, Bright End Corner, Katarmal Sun Temple
Things to do in Almora with family: Camping, trekking, bird watching, hiking, spotting wildlife species, shopping
How to reach Almora: Kathgodam railway station is the nearest railhead (82 km) Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport (116 km).

Dehradun

Nestled in the Doon Valley in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. With the scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, Dehradun boasts of caves, waterfalls, monasteries, and natural springs. The lovely landscapes and salubrious weather make it a popular tourist place to visit with family in summer in Uttarakhand. It is an amazing place to soak in the beautiful sunset amidst the serene nature and delight in the Himalayan vistas while sipping a hot coffee/tea from your balcony.

Tourist attractions in Dehradun: Robber’s Cave, Tapkeshwar Temple, Sahastradhara, Lacchiwalla, Forest Research Institute
Things to do in Dehradun with family: Trekking, bird watching, swimming, picnic
How to reach Dehradun: Dehradun railway station is the primary railhead that serves the city. Jolly Grant Airport is the primary airport that serves Dehradun. (25 km).

Chopta

Chopta is a beautiful hamlet located in the Rudraprayag district, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India.” It serves as the starting point for the Tungnath temple trek, which is part of the Panch Kedar trek. It offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, making it one of the most beautiful locations in Uttarakhand for your family. Tourist attractions in Chopta: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoria Tal, Ukhimath Things to do in Chopta with family: Trekking, camping, bird watching, photography, star gazing How to reach Chopta: Rishikesh is the nearest railway station (162 km) Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (212 km)

17. Chakrata

Chakrata offers stunning views of the Yamuna valley and the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Families will love this unexplored region because of its beauty and adventure opportunities.

Tourist attractions in Chakrata: Tiger Falls, Deoban, Chilmiri Neck, Budher Caves, Kimona Falls
Things to do in Chakrata with family: Trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, bird watching, visiting forests
How to reach Chakrata: The nearest railway station is Dehradun (85 km) and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (110 km)

Plan your short trip to Chakrata with Indian Holiday.

Jim Corbett National Park

Jim Corbett, India’s oldest national park, offers thrilling wildlife experiences. Due to the heat, summer is a great time to see tigers as they often visit water bodies.

Tourist attractions in Jim Corbett: Dhikala Zone, Bijrani Zone, Corbett Falls, Corbett Museum, Garjiya Devi Temple
Things to do in Jim Corbett with family: Jeep safari, elephant safari, bird watching, nature walks, visit the museum
How to reach Jim Corbett: The closest railway station is Ramnagar (12 km), and the nearest airport is Pantnagar (80 km)

Rishikesh

Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is ideal for those seeking to blend spirituality with adventure. During the summer, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy, particularly river rafting. If you want some thrilling experiences with your family, you should definitely try rafting in Rishikesh.

Tourist attractions in Rishikesh: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Beatles Ashram
Things to do in Rishikesh with family: River rafting, camping, bungee jumping, temple visits, and attending Ganga Aarti
How to reach Rishikesh: Rishikesh has its own railway station Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport (35 km)

Joshimath

Last on our list of top places to visit in Uttarakhand in summer with family is Joshimath, which is a major religious center and gateway to various Himalayan mountaineering expeditions. The summer months offer pleasant weather and stunning views of Nanda Devi.

Tourist attractions in Joshimath: Narsingh Temple, Shankaracharya Math, Jyotirmath, Tapovan, Auli (connected by cable car)
Things to do in Joshimath with family: Cable car ride to Auli, visiting temples, hot springs at Tapovan, short treks
How to reach Joshimath: The nearest rail head is Rishikesh (250 km) and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (280 km)

Practical Travel Tips for Families Visiting Uttarakhand in Summer

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Light to medium woolens for evenings, comfortable cotton clothes for daytime
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for uneven terrain
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats
Medications: Motion sickness medication, personal prescriptions, basic first-aid kit
For Children: Favorite snacks, toys, games for long car journeys
Documentation: ID proofs, printout of hotel bookings, emergency contact list

Transportation Tips

Hill Driving: Mountain roads have multiple hairpin bends, so always hire an experienced driver.
Shared Taxis: Available from major towns to smaller destinations, but pre-booking is recommended for families
Private Taxis: Most convenient for families; can be arranged through hotels
Local Buses: Economical but can be crowded; not recommended for families with young children
Car Rental: Self-drive options available from Dehradun and major towns

Safety Considerations

Altitude Acclimatization: Spend a day at moderate heights before proceeding to destinations above 2,500m
Weather Changes: Mountain weather can change rapidly – carry rain protection even on clear days
Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers and your hotel contacts
Medical Facilities: Major towns have hospitals; remote areas have limited healthcare – carry essential medications
Water Safety: Stick to bottled or properly purified water

Cultural Etiquette

Temple Visits: Remove shoes before entering; modest clothing recommended
Photography: Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in remote villages
Local Customs: Respect local traditions; some temples have specific entry requirements
Waste Management: Carry back all non-biodegradable waste from remote areas

Now, you have the list of best places to visit in Uttarakhand in summer, along with things to do and how to reach there. All you have to do is to pack your bag and leave for the mountains with your loved ones. Do not forget to add these places to your itinerary and let us know which one you chose! Also, do not forget to share your Uttarakhand trip experiences with us! [sc name=”uttarakhand-in-summer-with-family”]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the coldest place in Uttarakhand in June? Ans: Auli is typically the coldest place in Uttarakhand in June, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F). Other cool destinations include Munsiyari, Chopta, and Dhanaulti. Q: Is Uttarakhand too hot in May? Ans: Lower elevations like Haridwar and Rishikesh can be warm in May (25°C-35°C), but medium and higher altitude destinations like Mussoorie, Nainital, and Auli remain pleasantly cool (10°C-25°C), making them perfect summer retreats. Q: What clothes to pack for Uttarakhand in summer? Ans: Pack light cotton clothes for daytime, light woolens for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a small umbrella for occasional showers. Q: Is Uttarakhand safe for family travel? Ans: Yes, Uttarakhand is generally safe for family travel with low crime rates. The main concerns are natural hazards like occasional landslides during monsoon and road safety on mountain routes. Stick to established tourist areas and follow local advisories. Q: What are the best tourist places in Uttarakhand in summer? Ans: Besides the 15 places detailed in this guide, other excellent summer destinations include Chakrata, Chopta, Chamba, Abbott Mount, and Gwaldam – all offering pleasant weather and family-friendly activities. Q: How many days are enough for Uttarakhand? Ans: If you plan to visit Uttarakhand with your family, it is recommended that you stay for at least 5-7 days. Ideally, 10-14 days would provide a comprehensive experience of multiple regions.