Best Family-Friendly Destinations in South Asia for Summer 2026

While the south of Sri Lanka sees rain in May, the East Coast (Pasikudah and Trincomalee) is just waking up to glorious sunshine. For Spanish families, this is the ultimate “all-rounder.”

• Why for Families: The waters in Pasikudah are incredibly shallow and calm, making them essentially a giant, natural swimming pool for toddlers.

• Must-Do: Take a family “jeep safari” in Minneriya National Park to see hundreds of wild elephants.

• The 2026 Edge: New eco-resorts are opening that focus on “cocooning,” allowing families to stay in private villas with high-end safety standards.

The Maldives isn’t just for honeymooners anymore. In May 2026, the Maldives remains a top-tier choice for families seeking a seamless, “no-stress” logistics experience.

• Why for Families: Most island resorts now feature world-class “Kids Clubs” that offer everything from marine biology workshops to traditional Dhivehi cooking classes.

• Must-Do: Snorkel with manta rays. In May, the plankton levels draw these gentle giants to the Baa Atoll—a life-changing sight for kids.

• Travel Tip: May is the start of the “low season,” meaning you can book 5-star luxury at a fraction of the winter price.

If your family loves the mountains, skip the Pyrenees this year. Ladakh is one of the safest and most culturally rich regions in India, often called “Little Tibet.”

• Why for Families: The high-altitude desert landscapes look like another planet. It’s a safe, peaceful region with a slow pace of life that suits families looking to disconnect.

• Must-Do: Visit the Hemis Monastery and stay in a “luxury glamping” tent under the clearest stars your kids will ever see.

• Safety Note: May is the perfect time as the mountain passes open, but remember to factor in two days for altitude acclimatization in Leh.

Bhutan is perhaps the safest destination in the world for families. With its “High Value, Low Volume” tourism policy, you’ll never deal with the “overtourism” often felt in European hotspots.

• Why for Families: It is a lesson in mindfulness. The locals are incredibly welcoming, and the entire country feels like a living museum.

• Must-Do: A gentle hike to the Tiger’s Nest (with a pony ride for younger children) or a traditional archery lesson.

• Logistics: All travel is managed via local agencies, making the logistics of your 2026 trip entirely “hands-off” for parents.

For families who want adventure without the extreme trekking, Pokhara is the “relaxing heart” of Nepal.

• Why for Families: It’s affordable, the air is clean, and the infrastructure is very family-oriented.

• Must-Do: Take a wooden boat across Phewa Lake at sunrise to see the Annapurna range reflected in the water.

• 2026 Trend: “Slow Travel” is big here. Spend a week in a lakeside boutique hotel rather than rushing through a 10-day itinerary.