We are busy professionals and try and take at least 2 weeks off in the year with our young children ..every six months or so. We’ve seen a lot of Himachal and most of Kumaon over the last few summers.
There is a lot I look for in a holiday destination.. the cost factor, comfort levels, distance and most importantly, what’s in it for the kids. We generally prefer offbeat, quiet places..so we carry lego bricks, paints, baddy racquets etc to keep the kids busy.
We spent almost a week this summer in this lovely place called Naukuchiatal approx 26 km from Nainital and about an hour up from Haldwani. The Lake Resort there is a delightful place to spend time in. Very comfortable and quiet (except for occasional loud Dilli walas and day trippers) with ample greens for the kids to run around in. The wonderful lake is right there at your doorstep and one can go paddle boating simply any hour of the day. Importantly, staying there dosen’t cost the earth. Food is simple but good.
The best thing there is the hospitality. People are warm, courteous and friendly, unlike some of the places we’ve been to. Pets are welcome.. the owner himself has 6 dogs!! There’s nothing much to do there, other than laze around, read a book, watch some TV, sleep, enjoy the lake and the balmy weather (It was pleasant there in June, even though the town is not very high up in the hills). We simply loved it and would recommend the place to those who are looking for a vacation away from the noise and the crowds.