Best Family Vacation Destinations from Nepal

Opting for an international destination for your family vacation offers numerous advantages that only families traveling to global nations are able to experience. Firstly, renowned international destinations like Indonesia and Thailand in Southeast Asia are able to offer families a number of fun, exciting, and unique activities. These countries are known for their beautiful islands, clear oceans, and picture-perfect beaches that are great for trying out exciting water activities that families might not get to experience inside Nepal. They can try island hopping and cave exploring as well as enjoy different water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking, which both adults and children enjoy. Additionally, in terms of transportation, international destinations also have many modes of transportation, which are spacious, swift, and efficient to use, so for families traveling in larger groups, this can prove to be extremely beneficial, leading to stress-free traveling.

Food culture also plays a major role while traveling, and for families who love to try out unique dining experiences and cuisines, international destinations can provide you just that! If we look at Dubai, there are dine-in sky restaurants where you can have a three-course meal dinner, 50 meters above ground level! Whereas in the Maldives, you can dine underwater and have a taste of the most exquisite seafood while enjoying serene views of ocean life. So, for families looking to participate in these specific activities, an international destination gives them the freedom to explore these options. 

Likewise, traveling internationally also helps the younger children in the family gain new experiences and learn new things, leading to global exposure and cultural immersion. As a result, they are able to foster essential life skills such as adaptability, cultural awareness, open-mindedness, and confidence. Lastly, international travel can also help families work as a team together when facing certain challenges like language barriers and cultural shock, which are common problems when traveling abroad. Families, when working through these difficulties, are also able to build better communication and strengthen familial relationships.

Below is a list of the seven unique international family destinations from Nepal, each country offering distinct landscapes, languages, culture, and culinary experiences. We’ve provided you some of the most popular experiences that each respective country is renowned for:

An ideal destination to be included in your list of picks for vacationing with your family has to be Thailand, for sure! Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is a country divided into 76 provinces that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia and has never fallen under European colonization. With Bangkok being the capital city, the majority of people living here follow Buddhism, with religions such as Christianity and Islam making up the minority group. As for the climate in Thailand, it has a tropical climate with seasonal monsoonal winds.

Also referred to as the “land of smiles," the country’s rich hospitality culture is a major reason tourists feel welcomed from all corners of the world. The country also has many family-friendly attractions (such as beaches, parks, museums, and nature/wildlife sanctuaries) that different age groups of your family can experience as well. For fun-filled and adventurous activities, you can visit scenic islands/beaches in places such as Koh Samui, Phuket, and Krabi that are famous for water activities. With this, places like Safari World and Sea Life in Bangkok, which are child-friendly destinations, can be a great educational yet entertaining experience for younger children in your family. For adults of the family who love shopping, Thailand also offers vibrant markets such as Chatuchak, Yaowarat, Phahurat, and Pattaya’s floating market, which offer a variety of handicrafts, clothing, footwear, and food items. Moreover, if you are looking to spend a relaxing day, there are many spas, massage centers, and yoga centers that you can visit to rejuvenate and relax during your holidays. Without a doubt, Thailand is one of those countries that has been included on your list of preferred destinations for a family trip!

Best Time to visit Thailand for a family vacation

The ideal time to visit Thailand depends upon every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. On a general basis, the ideal time to visit Thailand is from November to February, as the weather during these months is cool and dry with less humidity (in most regions). These months are perfect for engaging in different water activities with your family members, such as kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Additionally, you can also visit famous cities, explore art galleries and museums, go on temple tours, visit vibrant street markets, dine in restaurants, or even take a day off just to relax at a massage or yoga center.

For families who are looking for an exciting yet culturally rich getaway, Indonesia should definitely be a destination you should consider for your vacation! With Jakarta being the capital city, Indonesia is the largest country in Southeast Asia in terms of land area. Due to this mesmerizing country having numerous breathtaking islands, it is also nicknamed as the land of a thousand islands. Furthermore, the country is divided into 38 provinces. Additionally, the main religion followed in Indonesia is Islam, with Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism comprising the minority group. Likewise, Indonesia is categorized by a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity experienced throughout the year. Indonesia is a vibrant country that has many family-friendly destinations like Bali, Lombok, Ubud, Bandung, and Yogyakarta.

A few popular family-friendly destinations in Indonesia include the Gili Islands (Lombok), Ancol Dreamland (Jakarta), Candirejo Village (Java), Ragunan Zoo (Jakarta), and Seminyak Town (Seminyak), which will give you a taste of the country’s rich cultural legacy and are perfect for children as well. As Indonesia is one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia, popular places for families in this country include Ubud, Canggu, and Nusa Dua that offer a blend of natural attractions, rich historical temples, and adventurous activities. Some fun and entertaining places to go in Indonesia with your family include the Sacred Monkey Sanctuary, Ceking Rice Terrace, Bali Safari and Marine Park, Bali Zoo, Uluwatu Temple, Kelingking Beach, and Mal Bali Galleria (shopping complex), which will surely provide a fun-filled day full of enriching activities suitable for younger children! 

Additionally, Indonesian food is packed with bold flavors and fragrant spices, and there are many eateries in Bali that offer an array of food options that you can try! Restaurants like the Botanist (Ubud), Koral (Nusa Dua), and DAVA steak and seafood (Jimbaran) are where you can go to get a taste of the delicious Indonesian food that no cuisine can compete with! Indonesia has remained a top family destination for a reason; whether you are looking for an adventurous or a historical vacation spot, this country has got it all! 

Best Time to Visit Indonesia for a Family Vacation

The best time to visit Indonesia depends upon every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. On a general basis, the best time is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the humidity and heat levels are relatively low, with little to no rainfall. You can engage in many outdoor activities, such as exploring ancient temples, visiting rice terraces/beaches, and going shopping in Indonesia. Additionally, you can also cool off and have fun by participating in various water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving. 

For families looking to spend their time in a luxurious destination, Dubai can be the ultimate country for you! Dubai is one of the six emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Home to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai is a metropolitan city rich in history where, in the past, art mediums such as poetry and songs were used to tell stories and events of the society, which also helped to reflect the country’s rich culture and traditions. Additionally, Islam is majorly followed here, where the laws and culture practiced here are heavily influenced by the Islamic traditions. In terms of safety, Dubai can be an ideal vacation spot for you, as there is a lower number of crimes committed in comparison to other countries. In terms of climate, Dubai experiences a subtropical desert climate with blazing hot summers and mild winters.

Some renowned destinations for celebrating your dream vacation with your family that add a touch of spontaneity and adventure to your travel days in Dubai include the Dubai aquarium and underwater zoo, Legoland, the Dubai desert safari, and Wild Wadi Waterpark Jumeirah (ideal for younger children in the family). Similarly, to escape the sweltering summer heat, there are also serene beaches in Dubai that you can go to, like Kite Beach, La Mer Beach, Al Mamzar Beach, and Sunset Beach, which provide scenic views of soft white sand and crystal blue waters that make up the perfect setting for relaxing and also provide a gorgeous backdrop for taking aesthetic family portraits!

For adults in the family who are into shopping, the Dubai Mall, Retold, Garderobe, Dragon Mart, and Wafi Mall are some of the top picks where you can find unique and trendy items. For food lovers, Dubai also offers an array of international foods, such as Italian, Japanese, Indian, and Lebanese, as well as Emirati (a traditional Arabian cuisine), giving you an opportunity to indulge in different food cuisines. Dubai is truly one of those destinations suitable for families of any age group!

Best time to visit Dubai for a family vacation

The ideal time to visit Dubai depends upon every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. On a general basis, the ideal time to visit Dubai is from November to March, which is the winter season. During these months, the temperatures are moderate/cool, and the days are not too hot and humid. These months are ideal for exploring the city’s major attractions, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Miracle Garden, and Souk Madinat Jumeirah. You can also go for outdoor activities such as visiting theme parks and desert safaris and dining at restaurants and cafes. Some of Dubai’s popular festivals also occur during these times, such as the Dubai shopping festival, Dubai design week, and Taste of Dubai as well!

Vietnam has captured the hearts of many travelers from all corners of the world! This country is known as the “land of the ascending dragon” due to the country’s geographical shape representing the body of a dragon. This country is divided into 63 provinces, with Hanoi being the capital city. Similarly, Buddhism is the predominant religion practiced here, with Christianity and Taoism making up the minority group. Vietnam celebrates many festivities that are rooted in Buddhist culture and centered around family gatherings. Due to Vietnam’s unique geography, the country has a subtropical monsoonal climate, which creates a range of various weather patterns.

What sets Vietnam apart from other countries is that it provides families a range of unique yet special travel experiences. Due to Vietnam’s varied natural landscapes, there are pristine beaches, majestic mountains, national parks, and terraced rice paddies ideal for families who love spending time in nature. Home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Vietnam can be a great destination for families to learn and grow together. For adults in the family, there are many religious and historic temples, like the Temple of Literature, Saigon Cao Dai Temple, and Kim Lien Pagoda, which will allow you to experience Vietnam’s rich culture and traditions. For families with younger children, beaches like Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and My Khe are excellent locations where toddlers can play on the beaches, observe the surroundings, and engage in fun activities like building sandcastles. For young adults in the family, places like Sapa are great for trekking and offer multi-day treks where you can enjoy the stunning surroundings, iconic views of rice terraces, remote villages, and snow-covered peaks while trekking. 

Best time to visit Vietnam for a family vacation

The ideal time to visit Vietnam depends upon every family's personal preferences and preferred activities. On a general basis, for families trying to plan their vacation to Vietnam, the best time to visit this country is from November to April. Vietnam experiences a dry season during this time where there is less heat and humidity felt in the air with clear blue skies and low rainfall. You can explore the major cities of Vietnam, like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An. Due to cooler temperatures, going sightseeing, visiting local markets, and engaging in water activities is done best during these months for families. 

Previously known as “Ceylon” in the past, Sri Lanka is a must-visit family destination for Nepali families. Rich in cultures and traditions, this island country has attracted many families from all across the world due to its serene natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and wildlife sanctuaries. Also nicknamed the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, this country was the major source of pearls with South India in the past. This amazing destination is divided into 9 provinces and further subdivided into 25 districts. In terms of religion, Sri Lanka has a huge Buddhist following, with Hinduism and Islam making up the minority groups. The country follows a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: Maha and Yala.

Nepali families travelling in Sri Lanka can participate in a number of fun and exciting activities like visiting national parks, exploring major cities, going sightseeing around lush tea gardens, touring attractive beaches, and dining at lavish restaurants, along with catching a train ride from Ella to Kandy (which offers scenic views of Sri Lankan landscapes and lush tea plantations and mesmerizing waterfalls) that is sure to encapsulate you with the beauty of this country! For older family members, Sri Lanka can provide your family with a plethora of religious experiences where you can explore stunning and tranquil temples/monasteries such as Gangaramaya Temple, Cathedral of St. Lucia, and Dambulla Cave Temples. Likewise, for younger children, national parks such as Wilpattu and Yala have a wide variety of wildlife where children may find it exciting to spot animals such as elephants, leopards, and buffaloes!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka for a Family Vacation

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends upon every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. On a general basis, as Sri Lanka has diverse climatic regions, for the East Coast, April to September would be the ideal months; likewise, for the South, West Coast, and Hill Country, December to March are perfect, and if you want to tour the cultural triangle, December to April are preferred months. For families planning to go on a vacation to Sri Lanka, these could be ideal months as the weather is sunny and bright with lower temperatures. Families can engage in various outdoor activities, such as exploring historical temples, visiting the scenic beaches, and engaging in beach activities.

India has to be definitely included in your list of picks for a family destination! Divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, the capital of this beautiful country is New Delhi. Home to a range of diverse cultures, religions, languages, and cuisines, India is a flourishing country known for its attractive landscapes, scenic natural attractions, and top-notch food cuisines! Due to India’s geographical position and the country having an abundance of natural resources, it has also been nicknamed “The Jewel of Asia.” Additionally, the concept of hospitality is also deeply cherished in Indian culture, where travelers from all across the world are welcomed with open arms and treated with respect and kindness. Likewise, the main religion followed in India is Hinduism, followed by Islam and Christianity and the climate here is categorized by a tropical monsoonal climate.

First of all, the most advantageous thing about Nepalese families traveling to India for a family vacation is that they don’t require any visa to travel to India due to the bilateral relationship between these countries. It is one less hassle to deal with when vacationing internationally with family. Additionally, due to the heavy influence of Bollywood movies and songs in Nepal, most Nepalese understand Hindi (the national language of India) and are quite capable of communicating, which is always a major plus point while travelling to any international destinations. 

For families planning to travel to India, this country offers a number of remarkable and extraordinary destinations! Those who are looking for a cultural and historic experience can go on the renowned Golden Triangle Tour, which covers major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, where you’ll be able to spot famous landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Jama Mosque, India Gate, Agra Fort, Jal Mahal, and City Palace Museum that will truly take your breath away! Or you can explore Ladakh, a northern region in India where you’ll be able to see some of the most beautiful lakes, valleys, monasteries, and palaces, perfect for nature lovers of the family! Varanasi, a famous pilgrimage city, is suitable for the much older generation of the family, as it has many historic temples, ancient ghats and traditional markets, whereas for the younger members, Goa serves as an ideal destination, as there are many picturesque beaches, top-notch restaurants, and artistic museums perfect for relaxing, dining, and strolling around. India is a destination that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of traveling and discovering new places!

Best Time to Visit India for a Family Vacation

The ideal time to visit India depends on every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. As India is a large country with diverse climatic regions, the climates and seasons vary according to the states. For the hill stations (West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Northeast India), the summer season, which lasts from April to June/July, are the ideal months, whereas for the plain region (Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana), October to March would be the best months. Because of the pleasant and cool weather, it is best for families to engage in cultural sightseeing and adventurous outdoor activities. Additionally, there are also low chances of rainfall during this time of year, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal to visit beaches, explore temples and markets, or simply dine out at restaurants and cafes in India.

China can be an excellent choice for Nepali families going on a vacation, as this culturally diverse nation offers both historical landmarks and contemporary attractions suited for both the older and younger age groups of the family. With Beijing being the capital city, this country is also one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a recorded history of 5000 years. The country is also nicknamed as “the dragon nation” due to this mythological creature being a central part of Chinese culture and has been a symbol of strength, power, and wisdom for centuries. Additionally, the country is divided into 23 provinces. In terms of religion, the majority of Chinese people practice Buddhism, with Taoism, Islam, and Catholicism making up the minority group. Likewise, the climate in China is also affected by the country’s size, altitude, latitude, and distance from the coast. In a general sense, the country’s various regions follow an equatorial, subtropical, tropical, and moderate climate.

China is a family-friendly destination for many reasons. The country offers an abundance of natural attractions, historic temples, bustling marketplaces, and towering skyscrapers! Vacationing in China with your loved ones isn’t complete without visiting the Great Wall of China, as it is listed in the seven wonders of the world. Suitable for much older kids in the family, the Great Wall of China stretches over 13,171 miles that you can complete on foot, where you'll be able to see lush green trees, ancient watchtowers, mountains, farmlands, and lakes from the wall, which makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers!

Additionally, you can also experience a variety of enjoyable and exciting activities with your family members; for instance, you can visit the famous Yangshuo, a town famous for its bamboo boat cruises in the Yulong River; explore the Temple of Heaven (UNESCO World Heritage Site); tour the popular Tiananmen Square (a picturesque city square in Beijing); and go sightseeing in the Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan, which is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Furthermore, you can even enroll in fun cooking classes in Yangshuo or organize a family picnic in Sunny Beach (Shanghai). Tourist spots like Disneyland Shanghai, Aquaventure Waterpark, Sunac Land, and Jiuzhaigou National Park are ideal for young family members as well.

Best time to visit China for a family vacation

The ideal time to visit China depends on every family’s personal preferences and preferred activities. As China is a large country with diverse climatic regions, for families trying to visit this country, the best time to travel is from April to May (spring) or September to October (autumn). These months are best for exploring natural attractions and engaging in outdoor activities and sightseeing. For families who are into adventurous activities such as hiking/camping, the weather during these months is also pleasant, with moderate temperatures in most provinces.

Before choosing your final destination, it’s crucial for you to consider a number of factors before deciding on your ultimate destination, as they can have a significant impact on your overall trip quality and experience. Let’s delve into some of the key considerations that will help you make an informed decision before choosing your ultimate outbound family destination:

• Budget: As international trips can be expensive in nature, setting the budget beforehand will help you to identify how much you are willing to spend on your vacation. This will also help you figure out if you want to go on a luxurious or budget-friendly trip. Here, you can review your savings, income, and expenses and allocate the needed money, as well as further break it down into categories such as transportation, food/clothing, accommodation, visa fee, number of people traveling, and miscellaneous that will help you to get an idea of the expenses needed for your family trip.

• Age group: While going on a family vacation, it is essential to take into account the interests (in terms of travel) of all the family members. As a family consists of different age groups, it is important to know that the personal preferences/hobbies of the younger generations differ from the older ones. In a family, it is likely that the older adults are more into religious and educational experiences, whereas the younger ones are into adventurous and thrilling experiences. It is preferable to maintain a balanced approach that takes into consideration that the destination you are choosing offers both of these choices.

• Safety: Another crucial factor that families should look into is safety. To ensure maximum safety, you should research well about the country you want to travel to. There are many news and media platforms that are easily accessible these days, where you can gather authentic travel news regarding the current political situation, crime rates, and natural disasters happening in the country. This will help you to figure out whether the destination you are planning to visit is safe or not. Furthermore, you can also seek the advice of friends/family members who have recently been to the country you plan to visit so you are able to get some real-life experiences as well.

• Climate: Planning a family vacation is no easy job, and climate is a crucial factor that you should consider when deciding on your ultimate destination. You should consider factors such as temperature, humidity, and the possibility of rain while deciding your ideal destination. As international countries have varied climates and seasons, we recommend you pick a destination that supports the health and well-being of your children and family members.

• Accommodation: The accommodation you choose to stay in while traveling is equally important to the destination you choose. To ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, for families traveling, choose a hotel that is family-orientated and kid-friendly. Most international hotels abroad cater well to this aspect, so we recommend you check the services, food options, and security levels offered by the hotel before booking. Additionally, you can also check out the reviews and recommendations of the hotels through apps such as TripAdvisor or Google Reviews to get honest reviews.

• Accessibility: When traveling abroad, Nepali families also need to complete the visa process and submit certain required travel documents. As different countries have different visa protocols, it is crucial for you to look into the visa requirements and application process and prepare the necessary travel documents needed for your family trip. A visa is required for all members of the family, including children, so researching these things helps you to decide whether the destination you are trying to reach falls within your convenience or not.

Travel tips always come in handy when you are venturing to a new place, especially when you are traveling internationally with a family. Planning for a family trip can be stressful and time-consuming at times, so we have provided a list of the essential travel tips you can use when traveling to a foreign country:

• Learn about your destination: Researching the country you want to travel to with your family can prove to be very beneficial, as through this process, you are able to identify all the popular attractions, learn the local customs and traditions, and also know the accommodation/transportation options available in your desired destination. Additionally, you can do this using online platforms such as Google/YouTube, reading genuine travel blogs, and joining travel forums to gather the needed information.

• Prioritize your health and safety: Traveling abroad can be an anxiety-inducing process for many parents and kids, especially if they are traveling for the first time to a foreign land. To avoid getting sick on your vacation, we advise you to visit your doctor with your children beforehand and take the necessary medications/vaccinations suggested by the doctor if needed. Make sure to also eat healthy and drink enough water on your trip as well so you don’t fall sick. Additionally, in terms of safety, parents can help their kids memorize important contact information, like the names and phone numbers of their guardians, in case one gets separated from another (as this can often occur in crowded spaces.) Additionally, you can also make emergency contact cards and keep them in your childrens bags or pockets.

• Know the currency exchange rate: You should also change all the money you need to travel beforehand to avoid unfavorable currency exchange rates, as this constantly fluctuates. Additionally, you should also check the validity dates of your ATM/credit cards so they don't expire when you have to use them in case of emergencies when traveling internationally.

• Stay informed: We also advise you to stay updated on the current political situation of the country you are planning to visit so you can avoid instances of travel bans and risks of traveling during dangerous situations. Furthermore, you can also research possible tourist scams going around in the country (if there are any) to ensure maximum safety during your stay with your family.

• Create a balanced itinerary: Traveling with your family members is all about exploring new destinations and making lasting memories. We advise you to include both adventurous and relaxing activities during your stay so you can have fun and relax at the same time. Combining a good mix of both helps all the age groups of the family to equally enjoy the trip. For adventure options, you can choose activities such as going to theme parks and zoos and engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking and for relaxing activities, you can choose to spend a day by the beach or even dine at restaurants/cafes.
• Pack smartly: Firstly, make a list of all the things you need to pack for your trip. When traveling, you can include essential items like clothing needed for varied conditions, first aid kits, personal hygiene items, identification and documents, food items, drinks to stay hydrated, electronics, and also games and books to keep the younger children in your family entertained during transit and flights. Moreover, make sure to keep all the important travel documents in a waterproof bag so it doesn’t get wet if something spills over.

In this blog, we've explored the top seven outbound family destinations from Nepal, helping you gain some inspiration for your next unforgettable vacation. To help you plan your dream trip, we've also provided valuable insights on the best time to book flights, key factors to consider when choosing a destination, and essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. This comprehensive blog post provides you with all the information needed to plan your next family vacation abroad!

Below are some frequently asked questions about international family travel:

How do I choose the right destination for my family vacation?

Planning a family trip is a long and strenuous process, and choosing the right destination is key to ensuring that the trip is enjoyed by all the family members. There are several factors that you should consider before picking your final destination, like budget, safety, accommodation, food options, personal preferences, and the visa process, among others. We advise you to look into all these factors that will help you make the right destination.

What are some good travel destinations for going on a family vacation?

Some good travel destinations for going on a family vacation include Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Dubai, Sri Lanka, India, and China.

Could you suggest some apps while traveling with my family?

Yes, absolutely! Some apps you can download while traveling with your family include Google Maps for navigation, Google Translate/HelloTalk for communication, TripAdvisor to check the reviews of hotels/sightseeing attractions, and Yelp for food reviews.

What are some tips for dealing with culture shock while traveling with children?

Culture shock is a common phenomenon that occurs when traveling to a new destination, and with children, it is likely to occur in terms of language, climate, and food. Parents can have a sit-down talk with their children about the cultural differences they might encounter when traveling. Additionally, you can also read books and watch documentaries about the destination with your children as well.