Easy Treks in India to Enjoy with Kids: Family Travel Guide

Exploring the great outdoors as a family is a wonderful way to bond, instill a sense of adventure in children, and create memories that last a lifetime. India, with its vast and varied landscape, offers numerous trekking opportunities, and there are several easy treks that are ideal for families traveling with kids. Whether it’s the scenic vistas, the excitement of crossing rivers, or the thrill of wildlife encounters, these treks offer something for everyone, including children.

Here’s a list of some of the best easy treks in India that are perfect for families and kids:

1. Trek to Triund (Himachal Pradesh)

Situated near the popular hill station of McLeod Ganj, Triund Trek is one of the most accessible and kid-friendly treks in India. At an altitude of approximately 2,850 meters, the trek offers breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra Valley. The well-marked trail ensures a safe and manageable hike for beginners and families.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: The trek can be completed in a day, covering around 7 km one way.
• Difficulty: It’s a relatively easy trek with well-maintained paths and gradual inclines.
• Highlights: The starry night skies at the Triund summit are magical. Kids will love the sense of achievement upon reaching the top and witnessing the sweeping mountain views.

2. Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal/Sikkim)

Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal and a part of the Singalila Ridge. Although it reaches a height of 3,636 meters, the Sandakphu trek can still be considered easy to moderate, especially if done over a longer period. What makes Sandakphu truly special is that it offers one of the rarest views in the world – a panoramic sight of four of the five highest peaks on Earth, including Everest, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: The trek can be done in 6–7 days, with manageable distances covered each day.
• Difficulty: The terrain is not too steep, and there are gradual ascents making it suitable for older children.
• Highlights: Kids will be amazed by the sight of the “Sleeping Buddha,” which is formed by the arrangement of the mountain peaks. The trek also passes through the Singalila National Park, giving children a chance to spot red pandas and numerous bird species.

3. Har Ki Dun Trek (Uttarakhand)

Har Ki Dun is a delightful valley trek located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. This valley, also called the “Valley of Gods,” is cradled in the lap of the Himalayas and surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered peaks. The Har ke dum trek, which takes you to a height of 3,566 meters, is perfect for families with slightly older kids, as the gradual ascents and descents make it less strenuous.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: The trek takes around 6–7 days and covers a total distance of 44 km.
• Difficulty: With a well-defined trail, it’s an easy-to-moderate trek with gentle ascents that are suitable for children above 10 years old.
• Highlights: Kids will enjoy walking through picturesque villages, crossing wooden bridges, and spotting the local flora and fauna. The view of the Swargarohini peaks is awe-inspiring, and the charming camping spots amidst alpine forests make the trek even more enjoyable.

4. Chopta – Chandrashila Trek (Uttarakhand)

The Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is one of the most popular and scenic family treks in India. Located in Uttarakhand, this trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. What makes it suitable for children is the ease of the trail and the unique blend of nature and spirituality, as the trek also includes a visit to the Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: The trek can be completed in 2–3 days.
• Difficulty: The trek is easy to moderate, with gradual ascents and manageable distances, making it perfect for families with young kids.
• Highlights: Kids will enjoy walking through rhododendron forests, hearing stories about the ancient temple, and climbing to the Chandrashila peak for a spectacular sunrise view.

5. Prashar Lake Trek (Himachal Pradesh)

The Prashar Lake Trek is another great option for families looking for an easy and short trek in the mountains. Located near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, this trek offers panoramic views of the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur ranges. The trail passes through dense forests and charming villages, leading to the pristine Prashar Lake with its floating island.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: This is a short 1–2 day trek, making it ideal for families with younger kids.
• Difficulty: It’s a relatively easy trek with no steep climbs.
• Highlights: The mysterious floating island in the lake will fascinate children. Camping by the lake, under the stars, makes for a memorable family experience.

6. Tadiandamol Trek (Karnataka)

Located in the Coorg region of Karnataka, the Tadiandamol trek is the highest peak in the area but is still an easy-to-moderate trek. This picturesque trek is perfect for families, as it takes you through lush green landscapes, coffee plantations, and misty hills.

Why it’s great for kids:

• Duration: The trek can be done in a day, covering about 6–7 km.
• Difficulty: The trail is gradual, with minimal steep sections, making it manageable for children.
• Highlights: Kids will love exploring the plantations, spotting different bird species, and enjoying the panoramic view from the peak.

Conclusion:

Trekking with kids can be a fun and enriching experience, especially when the trails are safe, easy to moderate, and filled with scenic beauty. The treks mentioned above are not only family-friendly but also offer unique experiences like camping under the stars, spotting wildlife, and visiting remote villages. Before embarking on any trek, it’s important to check the weather conditions, ensure the children are adequately prepared with appropriate gear, and pace the trek according to their comfort level.

With the right planning and these easy treks in India, your family is sure to have an unforgettable adventure together!