With its soaring temperatures, May is one of the hottest months in the Indian subcontinent that inspires us to travel to cooler places to beat the heat. Also, the month of May is the perfect time for a family vacation as it is the official month of summer vacation in India. Luckily, India has so many places to visit in May to escape the scorching heat right from the mighty Himalayas to stunning hill stations and exotic jungles. From backpacking to time with friends and family, these places in India offer a surreal respite from the summer heat with its pleasant temperatures and will help you relax and unwind to the core. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the coolest summer of your life and create memories for a lifetime. Let’s go through our blog to find some of the best places to visit in May in India for a wonderful summer vacation while holidaying in India.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Known for its colonial architecture, breathtaking landscape, pleasant weather and rejuvenating views of lofty snow-clad Himalayas, Shimla is an all-time favorite holiday destination for many travelers whether it is winter or summer. The former summer capital of British India is an ideal destination for honeymooners and family goers who are looking to explore nature without being secluded. Travel in Shimla – Kalka toy train, shopping in the Mall Road, a leisure walk at the ridge, a visit to Christ Church, partaking in adventure activities and going for an excursion to Kufri, Naldehra and Tattapani are some highlights of Shimla tour packages.
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Coorg
When it is raining, Coorg is one of the prettiest places to visit in India, and among the top Karnataka tourist places. In July, the surrounding mountains and valleys filled with lush vegetation and little sprouts of vibrant-hued flowers soothe the eyes. Besides, the waterfalls like Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls come alive during this time and offers a spectacular panorama. Raja’s Seat, Nagarhole National Park, Bagamandala Temple, Nisargadhama, Dubare, Talacauvery and Omkareshwara Temple more the other notable places not to miss in your Coorg Tour Packages.
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Leh – Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Often called as the ‘Land of High Passes’, Ladakh is truly a heaven on Earth with its dramatic landscapes, crystal clear lakes, age-old monasteries, barren valleys, amazing people and culture. It is one of the top places to visit in May as this remote region in Jammu and Kashmir opens up for visitors during this time. Be it adventure, nature, tranquility or simply scenic views, Ladakh offers everything to its visitors. There are a great many things to do here, from exploring the town of Leh and stop at ancient Tibetan monasteries, to visit the high altitude lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri, enjoy the breathtaking scenery of rugged mountains covered in snow, trek through some of the highest mountain passes in the world and experience a desert in the sky with sand dunes along with an adventurous mountain biking on Khardung La.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is known for its scenic beauty and striking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. With its peaceful environment, mesmerizing scenery, a plethora of sightseeing attractions and breathtaking vistas, Gangtok is said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations to visit in the hot month of May in India. For all those who want to escape summer in the off-beaten path, Gangtok is the right pick! As part of Gangtok Tour Packages, one can visit the Tibetan monasteries including Rumtek monastery, Lachung for its quiet lifestyle and quaint charm, Yumthang Valley for the blooming Rhododendrons, Gangtok for the gushing waterfalls, and Lake Tsomgo for lazy picnics. For incredible adventure experiences, go trekking at Nathula Pass, river rafting in Teesta river, and mountain biking from Gangtok to Rangpo. Don’t hesitate just pack your bags and head to Gangtok as it is the time to admire the beauty of the native flowers and plants of this mountainous state during the month-long International Flower Festival that commences on 1st May.
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar is one of the top monsoon destinations in India. If you want to enjoy the cool, foggy, lush green environment, then head over to Mahabaleshwar in August as the monsoon showers enhance the beauty of this pretty hill station. Visit Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, Kate’s Point & Elephant head Point, Connaught Peak and Bombay Point for stunning views of surrounding hills, gushing waterfalls and meandering rivers through the valleys during your Mahabaleshwar Tour. Besides, one can also visit Panchgani, the Strawberry County of Maharashtra, as part of Mahabaleshwar Trip.
Must Read : Top Places to Visit near Mumbai
Munnar, Kerala
At an altitude of 1600 m, Munnar is one of the most popular hill stations of Kerala and among the top places to visit in May in India. A tranquil paradise boasts of stunning nature, verdant tea plantations, lofty hills, picturesque valleys, unexploited wilderness, and pleasant weather pull travelers from all around the world. Be it nature lovers, adventure junkies or wildlife enthusiasts, Munnar has it all for its visitors. Admire the Western Ghats with waterfalls, go for fishing at Sita Devi Lake, stroll through lush green tea plantations, visit Echo Point and explore some exotic flora and fauna at Eravikulam National park are some popular things to do here as part of Munnar Tour Packages. One can also visit Thekkady, one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, along with this beautiful hill station during your summer vacation in Kerala.
Also Read : Best Tourist Places near Kochi
Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
The sweltering summer can be avoided by easily escaping to Dalhousie as this little hill station is just perfect for nature lovers in search of tranquility. Snuggled in the lush Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas, this quaint hill station is known for its old world charm, fast flowing rivers, misty mountains, inviting valleys, mesmerizing landscapes, and flower-bedecked meadows. Ganji Pahari, Dainkund Peak, Khajjiar, Noorwood Paramdham, Bara Pathar temple, Hariraya Temple, St. Patrick Church, Chamera Lake, Satdhara Falls, Kalatop Sanctuary, and Panchpula are the top places to visit in Dalhousie. In addition, it has a plethora of adventure options like trekking, paragliding, river rafting, etc. which increase the fun quotient and offer lifetime memories during your Dalhousie Tour.
Ooty, Tamilnadu
Cradled in the beautiful Nilgiri Hills, Ooty, fondly called as ‘Queen of hill stations’, is one of the most scenic hill stations in India. The charm of this colonial hill town lies in its laid-back luxurious grace, awe-inspiring Nilgiri hills, lush tea gardens, serene waterfalls, splendid green deep valleys, and the misty landscapes. Although Ooty is a year-round destination, May is just perfect time to visit this honeymoon capital as the cool, peaceful weather of this tinsel town allows you to spend hours simply walking on the winding country lanes and the charm of colonial architecture infuses fresh air into the souls of travelers. Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Wenlock Downs, Doddabetta Peak, Toy Train, Pykara Dam & Falls, and Avalanche Lake are the Ooty tourist places. May is also the time for Ooty Summer Festival which offers you an insight into the cultural heritage of this place as part of Ooty Tour Packages.
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Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
If you prefer a little adventure during your summer trip, then the cold desert valley of Spiti in Himachal Pradesh is the place for you. Known as the middle land, Spiti is rough, barren, and rugged but yet astoundingly beautiful. With snow-capped mountains, crystal clear rivers, picturesque hamlets, ancient monasteries, and splendid lakes, Spiti Valley is sure to leave you speechless. An enthralling getaway, Spiti Valley is an adventure paradise where you can experience one of the harshest conditions to survive on the planet. Monastery tour is one of the popular to do things in Spiti, including famous Tabo Monastery, Key Monastery, Lhalung Monastery, and Gandhola Monastery. Besides, travelers can witness the beauty of enchanting Chandratal and Suraj Tal, visit Dhankar Lake for a photography session, drive across high mountain passes, including Kunzum Pass, Baralacha Pass and explore the villages of Kibber, Losar, Udaipur, and Komik while in Spiti as part of Himachal Tour Packages.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a picturesque town situated in the extreme northwest corner of Arunachal Pradesh. This Buddhist town covered in sparkling snow for most parts of the year is a great place to seek solitude and immerse in some adventure. Colorful monasteries, beautiful alpine lakes, deep valleys, and unique culture, Tawang is one of the best places to explore in May in India. The simplicity and the excellent weather of the place prove to be an ideal break from the hectic city life and scorching heat during summers. Taktsang Gompa, Gorichen Peak, Sela Pass, Nuranang Waterfalls, Shonga-Tser Lake, Tawang Monastery, Jaswant Garh, etc. are the few notable places to visit in Tawang. Moreover, climb up to the Gorichen Peak & experience Paradise Lake at Sela Pass are the other prominent things to do here as part of Arunachal Packages.
Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is an ideal place to visit in India in May for those who want to beat the heat while they are exploring the land of kings. Fondly called as the oasis in the desert, Mount Abu attracts a huge number of tourists from adjoining states particularly bordering Gujarat as well as international visitors as this is the only hill station in Rajasthan that offers a surreal respite from the summer heat with its pleasant temperatures. Guru Shikhar Peak, Delwara Jain Temples, Adhar Devi Temple, Sri Raghunathji Temple, Achalgarh Fort, Nakki Lake, and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary are the must visit places as part of Mount Abu Tour Packages. This unique hill station of Rajasthan in May wears a vibrant outfit to welcome visitors during the annual Summer Festival which showcases an array of classical and folk music performances that highlight the vibrant culture of Rajasthan.
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Meghalaya
Lovingly called as the ‘Abode of Clouds’, Meghalaya is one of the most beautiful north-eastern states. It boasts of unspoilt and untouched scenery as it is still away from the regular tourist activity. Get away from the summer heat with a rejuvenating vacation in Meghalaya as the month of May brings in wonderful weather in this mountainous state. While in Meghalaya, check out Shillong for its natural surprises, explore the Living Root Bridge at Mawlynnong, visit Cherrapunji, the second wettest place on the planet to glimpse the stunning waterfalls, go caving at Krem Mawmluh, experience rock climbing, rappelling and zip lining at Barapani for a memorable experience.
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
When we are talking about places to visit in May in India, the list won’t be complete if we do not mention the hill station of Dharamshala. Located in Himachal Pradesh with an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Himalayan ranges, Dharamshala is renowned for its natural scenery, glittering streams, wooded valleys, spectacular mountain landscape, and generally relaxed vibe. Also, the upper Dharamshala, known more commonly as Mcleodganj lures spiritual seekers, expats, and foreign tourists as it is the seat of spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Chamunda Temple, Dalailama Temple, Namgyalma Stupa, Bhagsunath Temple, Norbulingka Institute, Gyuto Monastery, Dharamkot and Bhagsu Falls are the must include places in Dharamshala Tour Packages. May is the best time to trek Triund Hill and to witness Buddha Purnima celebrations.
Almora, Uttarakhand
Almora is a quiet, sleepy town cradled in the wilderness of Himalayan ranges. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine, magnificent wildlife, coupled with the absence of rampant tourism, Almora promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments amidst the relaxing vibe. Also, this horse-shoe shaped hill town has a spiritual aura with a touch of mythology depicted in several old temples in every nook and corner. Don’t forget to visit Kasar Devi temple and explore the charming view from Zero Point while spending your holidays in Almora as part of Uttarakhand Tour Packages.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Sprawling tea plantations, mesmerizing sunrises, the untouched beauty of the hills, the old-world charm of the past, and the warm welcoming people make Darjeeling one of the most beautiful summer getaways in India and among top honeymoon destinations in India. May is one of the best months to enjoy the splendid topography of Darjeeling as it features highly pleasant weather with clear skies and orchids filled valleys. Hopping on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway for a joy ride, head to Tiger Hill for grabbing a stunning sunrise from behind the Mount Kanchenjunga Range, visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo to see some rare Himalayan animals or take a tour to any tea estate to taste the famous Darjeeling black tea, there are many things to do here as part of Darjeeling Tour Packages. Darjeeling turns in to a wonderland for trekkers as May is the perfect time to climb up Sandakphu Peak, the highest point in the Singalila range from where you can see four of the world’s five highest peaks – Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse.
Kausani, Uttarakhand
With lush green valleys, verdant pine forests, meandering creeks, tranquil atmosphere, and majestic Himalayan peaks, the picturesque hill station of Kausani is one of the best travel destinations in May for the people who want a relaxing summer vacation away from the tourist crowd. The place is better known for offering spectacular views of Himalayan peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli. Ideal for solo travelers, nature lovers, and honeymooners, one can witness the mystical sunrise over Nanda Devi, visit Baijnath Temple for a spiritual experience, trek to Pinnath for some solitude and explore Rudradhari Caves & Waterfalls for a glimpse of the prowess of Mother Nature as part of Kausani Tour Packages.
Nainital, Uttarakhand
An ideal destination for honeymooners as well as family vacationers, Nainital is a magnificent hill station in India and among the top Uttarakhand Tourist Places. With its incredible natural scenery, snowcapped mountains, salubrious weather, and tranquil lakes, it stands as a glistening jewel in the Himalayan region and become popular as a health resort. May is the perfect time to visit Nainital when the air is pleasant and the sky is blue – even the lake is alive in its rich verdant green. Boating in the sparkling Naini Lake waters, a long walk along the charming forest trails in the dense alpine woods and the picturesque sunsets views over the snowcapped Himalayas from the China Peak make your Nainital Tour an unforgettable one during summer.
Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Located on the Eastern Ghats at an altitude of 1400 m, Araku Valley, popularly known as Araku, is a scenic hill station in Andhra Pradesh. Surrounded by high mountains, lush green forests, foggy clouds, and a pleasing climate, Araku is a perfect escape for those who are tired of the hectic city life. Yet to be explored to its fullest potential, the serene and tranquil environs of Araku not only calm your soul but also make your inner soul happy. Admire the Chaaparai Waterfalls, explore Borra Caves, visit Tribal Museum, trek through thick Coffee Plantations and see tribal folk dances like Dhimsa and Mayuri as part of Araku Tour Packages.
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Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Often called as the Valley of Gods, Manali is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station situated at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh. The enchanting hill station of Manali is one of the coolest places to visit in May due to its fantastic weather, jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, gushing streams and sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers. Forever charming, this place never fails to make you go awestruck with its fair number of attractions including Hidimba Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Manu Temple, Naggar Castle, etc. Besides, one can also partake in some adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking in May. Also, May is the time to celebrate the famous Dhungri Mela in Manali where one can witness the local culture and lifestyle of folks as part of Manali Tour Packages.
Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
If your idea of summer vacation is living in a quaint little place in the middle of nowhere and away from the chaos of a city, then Lansdowne is the place you need to pack for. Among the least expensive hill stations in India, Lansdowne gets its name from mist-laden surroundings, quaint welcoming abodes, and the magnificent Bhulla Tal. This hill town has the best weather during May to let your experience the galore of silence amidst the serene nature. Once you’re here, do not miss to take a walk through the woods laced with a variety of flora and fauna, hike up to Tiffin Top for a breath-taking panoramic view of the town, and go for boating in Bhulla Lake as part of Lansdowne Tour Packages.