Summer holidays are the right time to plan a fresh trip. May is one of the best months for traveling in India. Closed school for the holiday, the mountains are with cool winds, and nature is in its best form. Whether you want adventure, peace, nature, or spirituality, there is something for everyone in India.
In this easy guide, we will explore the best places to visit in May in India and help you choose the destination of your dreams!
1. Shimla: Queen of the Hills
Shimla, located in Himachal Pradesh, is the classic hill station that everyone loves. In May, the weather remains cool between 15 ° C to 25 ° C, which makes it an ideal time to heat.
Top Things to Do:
- Walk leisurely on The Ridge and Mall Road
- Visit Christ Church, a beautiful colonial building
- Explore Jakhoo Temple, home to a giant Hanuman statue
- Enjoy the historic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train ride
- Visit Kufri for horse riding and adventure parks
Why Visit Shimla:
Shimla provides beautiful colonial architecture, beautiful hill views, and a fresh climate.
2. Manali: Adventure and Beauty
Manali is another favorite destination, which offers a mixture of adventure and relaxation. Snow-covered mountains and rivers seem magical in May.
Top Things to Do:
- Play in the snow at Rohtang Pass
- Try paragliding and zorbing at Solang Valley
- Visit Hadimba Devi Temple, surrounded by cedar forests
- Chill at cozy cafes in Old Manali
- Soak in the hot water springs at Vashisht
Why Visit Manali:
Manali is perfect for thrill seekers, nature lovers, and honeymooners.
Book your rental car for this trip in VDP Tours & Travels
3. Darjeeling: Tea Gardens and Toy Train
Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” offers stunning mountain views, lush tea gardens, and pleasant weather.
Top Things to Do:
- Witness the glorious sunrise at Tiger Hill
- Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
- Explore Peace Pagoda and Buddhist Monasteries
- Stroll through Happy Valley Tea Estate
- Shop and eat at Chowrasta Mall
Why Visit Darjeeling:
It is ideal for families and couples who love tea, culture, and cool weather.
4. Gangtok: Gateway to Sikkim
Gangtok is full of colorful monasteries, lakes, and breathtaking views of the mighty Kanchenjunga.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Tsomgo Lake and enjoy a yak ride
- Explore Rumtek Monastery, a spiritual center
- Take a ropeway ride for a bird’s-eye view of the city
- Visit Nathula Pass (Indian citizens need permits)
- Shop for souvenirs at MG Marg
Why Visit Gangtok:
Gangtok is perfect for a peaceful, scenic vacation with a touch of spirituality.
5. Ooty: Queen of the Nilgiris
Ooty, in Tamil Nadu, is a cool escape into green hills, flower gardens, and misty mornings.
Top Things to Do:
- Stroll around the Ooty Botanical Gardens
- Enjoy boating at Ooty Lake
- Visit Doddabetta Peak, the highest point
- Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway through tunnels and forests
- Explore the charming Rose Garden
Why Visit Ooty:
Ooty is a favorite for families, couples, and nature lovers.
6. Munnar: Green Paradise
Munnar in Kerala is famous for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and cool, misty mornings.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr
- Trek to Anamudi Peak, South India’s highest mountain
- Boating at Mattupetty Dam
- See the unique flowers at Blossom Park
- Explore the Tea Museum
Why Visit Munnar:
Munnar offers a peaceful, green holiday far away from city noise.
7. Mount Abu: Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station
Mount Abu offers a unique, cool escape in the middle of desert states like Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit the magnificent marble Dilwara Temples
- Boating at Nakki Lake
- Watch the sunset at Honeymoon Point
- Trek up to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in Rajasthan
Why Visit Mount Abu:
Cool breeze, lush greenery, and historic temples make it a great summer getaway.
8. Tawang: Untouched Beauty
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a hidden gem full of stunning monasteries and lakes.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Tawang Monastery, India’s largest monastery
- Drive through the snowy Sela Pass
- Explore Madhuri Lake, named after Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit
- Pay respects at the Tawang War Memorial
Why Visit Tawang:
Tawang is perfect for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and untouched nature.
9. Rishikesh: Spiritual and Adventurous
Rishikesh, located on the banks of the Ganges River, is both a spiritual center and an adventure hub.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula
- Take part in Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Try white-water rafting in the Ganges
- Learn yoga and meditation from world-class centers
- Explore Beatles Ashram, once visited by the famous band
Why Visit Rishikesh:
It is great for soul searchers, yoga lovers, and adrenaline junkies.
10. Coorg: Coffee and Calmness
Coorg in Karnataka is filled with coffee estates, waterfalls, and thick forests.
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Abbey Falls surrounded by greenery
- Meet elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
- Enjoy breathtaking views at Raja’s Seat
- Trek up Tadiandamol Peak, the highest in Coorg
Why Visit Coorg:
If you love coffee, nature, and calmness, Coorg will steal your heart.
Bonus Destinations for May in India
1. Spiti Valley (Himachal Pradesh):
A high-height desert that opens to passengers in May. It is perfect for those who love adventure and barren beauty.
2. Auli (Uttarakhand):
Although known for skiing in winter, May brings beautiful green grasslands and clear skies, ideal for trekking.
3. Kasuli (Himachal Pradesh):
A small, peaceful hill station with colonial attractions and cedar forests, perfect for a cool summer holiday.
4. Mahabaleshwar (Maharashtra):
Famous for a beautiful approach, such as strawberries, pleasant weather, and Arthur’s Seat and Elephant Head Point.
Tips for Traveling in May in India
1. Stay Cool
Choose hill stations or cooler areas to avoid harsh heat.
2. Book Everything Early
May is a peak season. Book flights, trains, hotels, and allow at least a month in advance.
3. Dress Smart
- Light cotton clothes for daytime
- A light jacket for chilly evenings
- Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen
4. Stay Hydrated
Always carry a water bottle, especially when you are visiting a scenic spot or trekking.
5. Respect Local Culture
Cover slightly in spiritual places. Always ask before taking pictures of locals.
6. Check Travel Advisories
In places like Tawang and Nathula Pass, weather changes can cause obstruction. Stay update
Conclusion:
From Darjeeling tea gardens to the snow-fed peaks of Manali, the best places to visit in India provide something for all types of travelers. Whether you are looking for adventure, peace, nature, or spirituality, all of this is waiting for you in India.
Choose your favorite destination, pack your bags, and get ready to make memories of a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which place in India is the best for a family vacation in May?
Shimla, Darjeeling, and Ooty are great for families looking for cool weather and easy sightseeing.
2. Are there places in India where snow can be seen in May?
Yes! You can see snow in places like Rohtang Pass near Manali and Sela Pass near Tawang.
3. What should I pack for a May trip to India?
Pack light clothes, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, trekking shoes, and a light jacket for evenings in the hills.
4. Which places are budget-friendly for May travel?
Coorg, Rishikesh, and Kasauli offer budget travelers affordable stay options and easy access.