Best Places to Visit in India in May
May in India is a mix of summer heat and cool mountain breezes, making it a perfect time to escape to breathtaking hill stations, serene coastal towns, and adventure-filled destinations. Whether you’re planning a trip with family, friends, or solo, India offers diverse travel experiences suited for all types of travelers.
From the snow-capped peaks of Himachal Pradesh to the lush green tea gardens of Darjeeling, and from the spiritual vibes of Rishikesh to the serene backwaters of Kerala, there are plenty of destinations to explore. Plus, if you’re looking for budget-friendly places or international trips, we’ve got you covered too!
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the best places to visit in India in May and find the perfect getaway for you!
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in May in India
Looking for the perfect summer escape? From the snow-capped mountains of Manali to the lush tea gardens of Munnar, explore the top 10 best places to visit in India in May for an unforgettable vacation.
1️⃣ Manali – The Summer Paradise
Why visit? Cool weather, adventure activities, and stunning landscapes make Manali a top summer destination.
- Rohtang Pass (for snow lovers )
- Solang Valley (perfect for paragliding)
- Hadimba Temple (serene and historic)
- Old Manali (cafes & nightlife)
Best for: Families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers
If you’re planning a beach getaway, don’t miss our detailed guide on the Delhi to Goa trip – from travel tips to must-visit spots.
2️⃣ Shimla – The Refreshing Hill Retreat
Why visit? Colonial charm, pleasant climate, and mesmerizing views.
- The Ridge & Mall Road (shopping and sightseeing)
- Kufri (perfect for a day trip and horse riding)
- Jakhoo Temple (for Lord Hanuman devotees)
Best for: Families, couples, and peace seekers
3️⃣ Darjeeling – The Queen of Hills
Why visit? Tea gardens, toy train rides, and breathtaking sunrises.
- Tiger Hill (famous for stunning sunrise views )
- Batasia Loop (a mesmerizing train journey )
- Peace Pagoda (serene Buddhist vibes)
Best for: Families, nature lovers, and tea enthusiasts
Looking for a quick getaway? Explore our Delhi to Agra trip guide for everything you need to know about visiting the Taj Mahal and more.
4️⃣ Ooty – The Queen of the Nilgiris
Why visit? A picturesque town with lakes, gardens, and colonial architecture.
- Ooty Lake (boating and scenic beauty)
- Doddabetta Peak (panoramic views)
- Botanical Garden (lush greenery)
Best for: Families, photographers, and nature lovers
5️⃣ Munnar – A Green Escape
Why visit? Tea plantations, waterfalls, and a peaceful environment.
- Eravikulam National Park (spot Nilgiri Tahr)
- Mattupetty Dam (scenic beauty & boat rides)
- Tea Museum (learn about tea production)
Best for: Families, honeymooners, and nature lovers
Plan a spiritual journey with our Delhi to Golden Temple trip guide to experience the serenity of Amritsar’s iconic site.
6️⃣ Rishikesh – Adventure & Spirituality Combined
Why visit? The perfect mix of adventure and spirituality.
- River rafting in the Ganges (thrilling experience )
- Laxman Jhula (a famous hanging bridge)
- Yoga and meditation retreats
Best for: Adventure lovers, spiritual seekers, and backpackers
7️⃣ Ladakh – A Biker’s Dream Destination
Why visit? Breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude passes, and Buddhist monasteries.
- Pangong Lake (a mesmerizing blue lake )
- Nubra Valley (sand dunes & Bactrian camels )
- Magnetic Hill (a gravity-defying road )
Best for: Adventure seekers and nature lovers
Explore the best of India with our detailed guide on a 7-day trip from Delhi for an unforgettable travel experience.
8️⃣Mount Abu – Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station
Why visit? The only cool getaway in the desert state!
- Nakki Lake (boating & scenic views)
- Dilwara Temples (stunning marble architecture)
- Guru Shikhar (highest peak of Rajasthan)
Best for: Family vacations and spiritual trips
9️⃣Gangtok – A Perfect Himalayan Getaway
Why visit? Stunning mountains, monasteries, and vibrant culture.
- Tsomgo Lake (a glacial lake)
- Nathula Pass (India-China border)
- MG Marg (shopping & cafes )
Best for: Family vacations, adventure trips, and peace seekers
Looking for a quick yet exciting getaway? Check out our guide on a 5-day trip from Delhi for the perfect vacation.
🔟Coorg – Scotland of India
Why visit? Coffee plantations, waterfalls, and a relaxing environment.
- Abbey Falls (breathtaking waterfall )
- Raja’s Seat (panoramic sunset views )
- Coffee Plantations (aromatic experience )
Best for: Nature lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and couples
Best Places to Visit in India in May with Family
Planning a family trip in May? Explore serene hill stations like Shimla, Ooty, and Munnar, offering cool weather, kid-friendly attractions, and budget-friendly stays for a memorable summer holiday.
- Shimla (pleasant weather, family-friendly)
- Ooty (lake activities and gardens)
- Munnar (lush greenery and tea gardens)
Planning a short escape? Explore our guide on a 4-day trip from Delhi for a memorable vacation experience.
Best Places to Visit in India in May with Friends
Whether it’s thrilling river rafting in Rishikesh, trekking in Manali, or a road trip to Ladakh, India has plenty of adventurous destinations to explore with friends in May!
- Rishikesh (river rafting & adventure sports)
- Manali (trekking and nightlife)
- Ladakh (road trips and biking)
Cheapest Places to Visit in India in May
Traveling on a budget? Explore affordable yet stunning destinations like Kasol, McLeodganj, and Varanasi, where you can enjoy scenic views, local culture, and budget-friendly stays.
- McLeodganj (budget stay and local cafes)
- Kasol (hippie vibes and affordable hostels)
- Varanasi (spiritual experience on a budget)
“Looking for a quick trip? Check out our guide on a 3-day trip from Delhi for a perfect short vacation.”
Places to Visit in May Outside India
Looking for an international getaway? From the tropical beaches of Bali to the scenic beauty of Switzerland, here are the best places to visit in May outside India for an exciting vacation.
- Maldives (tropical paradise )
- Bali (budget-friendly and scenic)
- Switzerland (for a cool summer retreat )
Quick Travel Tips for May in India
| Destination | Avg Temp (°C) | Weather | Packing Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manali | 10–25 | Cool | Light jackets, hiking shoes |
| Rishikesh | 20–35 | Warm | Sunglasses, sunscreen |
| Darjeeling | 15–22 | Pleasant | Rain gear (occasional showers) |
| Goa | 28–34 | Hot | Light cottons, beachwear |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Traveling in May in India
1️⃣ Which part of India is best to visit in May?
Hill stations like Manali, Shimla, and Ooty are the best places to visit in May due to their cool climate.
2️⃣ Which city is coldest in India in May?
Dras in Ladakh is one of the coldest places in India during May.
3️⃣ Where is the best place to go in May?
For adventure – Rishikesh; For nature – Munnar; For budget travel – Kasol.
4️⃣ Which place is best for a 3-day trip in India?
- Manali (adventure + sightseeing)
- Ooty (relaxing + nature)
- Rishikesh (spiritual + rafting)
5️⃣ What are the best family-friendly destinations in India in May?
Shimla, Ooty, and Munnar are great for families with kids.
6️⃣ Which international destinations are best for travel in May?
Bali, Dubai, and Thailand are great options for an international vacation.
If you’re short on time, explore our guide for a perfect 2-day trip from Delhi packed with amazing destinations.
Final Thoughts
India in May offers a diverse range of travel destinations, catering to all types of travelers. For adventure enthusiasts, the snow-capped peaks of Ladakh provide a thrilling escape. If you’re seeking relaxation, the tranquil beaches of Goa are perfect for unwinding. Nature lovers can explore the lush green landscapes of Kerala, while those on a budget can enjoy the cultural vibrancy of Rajasthan. Whether you prefer the cool mountains or the warm coastline, India in May is the perfect time to discover new places. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Which destination are you excited to visit this May? Let us know in the comments!
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