The Perfect Summer Retreat for Families with Kids

When it comes to planning the perfect summer getaway with kids, the usual checklist often includes crowded tourist destinations, rigid itineraries, and packed sightseeing schedules. But what if there’s another way? A way to slow down, reconnect with nature, and give your children an experience beyond the usual hustle.

Why Choose Kumaun for a Family Vacation?

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Kumaun offers more than just scenic views. It’s a place where you can slow down, connect with nature, and introduce your kids to a simpler way of life. From village walks to women-led enterprises and forest healing experiences, Kumaun is ideal for families looking for meaningful travel.

Last summer, we found that magic in Majhkhali, a serene village near Ranikhet in the Kumaun region of Uttarakhand, where time seemed to pause, and every moment felt like a breath of fresh mountain air. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Majhkhali is a hidden gem offering breathtaking views, lush greenery, and a glimpse into the simple, soulful life of the mountains. This tranquil village is an excellent base to explore the heart of Kumaun—from the colonial charm of Ranikhet to the mystical beauty of Almora, Mukteshwar, and Kausani. But you don’t need to rush through these famous spots to enjoy Kumaun. The beauty of this region lies in slowing down and savoring every experience.

Our week-long stay at Devbhoomi Homestay, run by the warm and hospitable Devendra Ji, felt like a home away from home. With just four cozy rooms, a shared kitchen, and the option to cook yourself or relish local delicacies prepared by their cook, it provided us the perfect setting to unwind. And on clear days, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks right from our window!

Unforgettable Experiences in and Around Majhkhali

Instead of a fast-paced itinerary, we chose to embrace slow travel and immerse ourselves in the local culture and natural beauty. Here are some highlights that made our trip extraordinary:

1. Village Walks & Local Connections

We spent peaceful mornings taking long walks to the nearby villages. One of the most enriching experiences was visiting Kalika and Naini villages, where we connected with inspiring women-led social organizations. These women are part of Umang Himalaya, a cooperative brand that processes and markets local food products. Seeing their resilience and dedication firsthand gave us and our children a deeper appreciation for the simple yet powerful ways people sustain themselves in the mountains.

Our kids loved the hands-on experience—exploring farms, understanding how food is grown, and even participating in some basic food processing activities. It was a rare and meaningful opportunity for them to see where their food comes from and the hard work behind it.

🌿 Sustainability Insight: Supporting these women-led initiatives helps sustain local economies and keeps ancient food traditions alive.

2. Forest Healing & Nature Trails

One of the most magical places we visited was the Forest Healing Center near the Ranikhet Golf Course. This place is designed to help visitors connect deeply with nature through treehouses, nature trails, and interactive experiences. Our children were fascinated by the unique Fernery, which houses a stunning variety of ferns and other rare plants.

We spent a whole afternoon here, letting the kids explore the treehouses, wander through the forest, and soak in the calming energy of the mountains. It was a reminder of how nature itself can be the best playground and teacher.

3. Creative Play in the Great Outdoors

One evening, after a gentle hike, we stumbled upon an open field. As the sun dipped below the horizon, our children and a visiting family from Delhi spent hours collecting pinecones and painting them with colors we had brought along. This simple, spontaneous activity turned into a creative session filled with laughter and joy.

Watching the kids lose themselves in play reminded us why slow travel is so powerful—it allows space for creativity, curiosity, and those small, unscripted moments that become lifelong memories.

4. Exploring Ranikhet’s Colonial Charm

Ranikhet, with its quaint markets and colonial-era golf course, offered another delightful day trip. Our children loved the little adventures—boating on the serene Rani Jheel, exploring the Kumaun Regimental Museum, and playing in the sun-dappled park at the heart of the town.

The simplicity of these experiences felt far richer than any bustling tourist attraction. Each spot held its charm, inviting us to linger a little longer and enjoy the beauty of the moment.

A Day at Almora & Kasar Devi

We dedicated one day to explore Almora and the mystical Kasar Devi. Known for its spiritual energy and breathtaking sunsets, Kasar Devi offered us a quiet place to reflect and marvel at nature’s grandeur. Standing there as the sky turned gold and pink, we felt an immense gratitude for this slow, intentional way of traveling with our children.

Why Slow Travel Works Best for Families with Kids

In a world obsessed with checklists and rushing from one spot to the next, slow travel offers something rare—connection. Connection to the place, the people, and most importantly, to each other. We even hosted a family from Delhi during our stay. They mentioned how these unique experiences—village walks, community engagement, and slow exploration—were something they couldn’t find on their own or through regular tour operators. Watching their kids collect pine cones, splash in the lake, and interact with nature reminded us why we chose this slower, deeper way of traveling.

For our children, this trip wasn’t just about sightseeing. It was about discovering the earth beneath their feet, feeling the rough texture of tree bark, learning how food is grown, and understanding a different way of life. For us, it was about slowing down enough to notice the magic in everyday moments.

If you’re planning a summer vacation with your kids, consider swapping hotels for homestays and tight itineraries for open-ended exploration. Kumaun is waiting to offer you an unforgettable, soul-enriching journey—one slow step at a time.

Planning Your Own Slow Travel Experience in Kumaun

If you’re craving a summer vacation that offers more than just sightseeing, Kumaun is a perfect destination. Here are a few tips to get you started:

✅ Choose a Homestay – Opt for locally-run stays like Devbhoomi Homestay(Connect with Devendra @ 97568 09724) to experience warm hospitality and authentic Kumaoni cuisine.

✅ Embrace the Slow Pace – Instead of ticking off tourist spots, prioritize experiences like village walks, nature hikes, and community interactions.

✅ Support Local Communities – Visit and shop from initiatives like Umang Himalaya to contribute to sustainable tourism.

Kumaun is more than a place—it’s an experience. And when you travel slowly, every moment becomes a cherished memory.

If you need any help or connections while you are planning this, feel free to write us at thekhanabadoshfamily@gmail.com

Would you choose a slow vacation over a fast-paced one? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your perspective!

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