India hosts a wide array of travel destinations because of its diverse geography and culture, for every time of the year. The month of May is the best time to explore hill stations, laid-back valleys, and beach getaways where summers are normally at their warmest. Whether you are in search of adventure or relaxation, or simply cultural exposure, there is a destination for you. This blog elaborates on the Best Places to visit in India during the month of May, so your summer isn’t ruined.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
If you are thinking of traveling to India in May, the spectacular scenery and wonderful weather in Manali make it one of the best places to visit in India. Manali sits atop the Himalayan range and provides a great escape from scorching summer heat. Adventure tourism is an industry here with spring and summer activities such as paragliding, river rafting, and trekking. Manali is also close to several notable milestones: Rohtang Pass, the breathtaking Solang Valley, and Old Manali. With beautiful snow-capped peaks and that crisp mountain air, Manali is a dream destination for anybody with a love of nature.
2. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
An aspiring traveler and pandemic dream, Leh-Ladakh is the colorful face of adventure or biking and is one of the best places to visit in India in May. The beautiful monasteries and rugged landscape of Ladakh juxtaposed by exotic lakes make it a fantastic experience, and then you have road trips no one would ever forget, like Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Magnetic Hill, all readily accessible as the winter snow melts in hopes of us working only to create travel memories. The blue sky and experience are breathtaking.
3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Often touted to be the “Yoga Capital of the World,” Rishikesh is an intriguing destination for spiritual cleansing and rejuvenation, as well as the same warm spark of adventure. The Ganges River runs through the town of Rishikesh and provides something for its visitors: wild white-water rafting! Other notable destinations near Rishikesh are Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhula, and a visit to the famous Beatles Ashram. Rishikesh has a pleasant energy and is among the best places to visit in India for peace seekers and adventure lovers alike.
4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty, the ‘Queen of Hill Stations,’ is one of the best places to visit in India during May, especially if you are someone who wishes to escape the hot plains. Ooty has a lush green landscape, tea plantations, and quaint lakes, continuing to be a wonderful adjoining retreat. There are many lovely places to see, including Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and the Government Botanical Gardens. You should also make a point to take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway; it will be memorable!
5. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar – hours of tea estates, fog covered hills and cool ambiance, making it one of the best places to visit in India in summer. Munnar is famous for beautiful hill station scenery, viewpoints such as The Echo Point and Top Station. Eravikulam National Park, where you can see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is also a site to see if you are visiting Munnar. May is a fantastic time to take-in all of the lush biodiversity and greenery Munnar has to offer.
6. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, with its colonial a very lovely nature and tea estates, makes it an ideal getaway in summer. The cool weather, combined with the beauty of Kanchenjunga, makes Darjeeling one of the best places to visit in India, and even more so in May. Be sure to take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, watch the sunset over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill in the early hours, and visit Batasia Loop. The rescuing Tibetan characters that belong to the town deepens the charm of visiting this hill station!
7. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is the one hill station in Rajasthan, and it gives a lovely and cool respite that everyone would enjoy in a desert state. It is among the best places to visit in India in May, given the weather. Some great highlights of Mount Abu are Nakki Lake, the Dilwara Temples, and the peak of Guru Shikhar. Mount Abu has different things to do for everyone to enjoy, whether it be boating to visit the temples to enjoy the beauty of nature with an amazing view over the hills.
8. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and famous for its beautiful lush green scenery, rolling hills and, wonderful weather. Shillong is nicknamed “the Scotland of the East” and is the best destination in India to visit in May if you love nature and peace. Shillong has many spectacular scenic views like Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, and Shillong Peak. If you mix in local cafes and markets then this is a fantastic travel destination.
9. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka and among the best places to visit in India if you love nature. This area is known for its beautiful broad coffee plantations, dense forests, and waterfalls. Some of the finest spots to visit in Coorg include Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Dubare Elephant Camp. The month of May is an excellent time to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Western Ghats in blissful serenity with cool breezes.
10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a picturesque hidden gem in Northeast India, which is filled with spectacular scenic beauty, Buddhist culture, and monasteries. It is one of the best places to visit in India in May with all these factors and offbeat travel experiences! It is home to famous Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, and Bum La Pass, where you can experience breathtaking views. Tawang offers its own unspoiled natural beauty that provides a unique experience you would not want to miss.
India is a land of diverse landscapes, and the month of May offers the perfect opportunity to explore its many wonders. Whether you are looking for the snow-clad mountains of the north, the lush greenery of the south, or the cultural richness of the northeast, there is a destination for every traveler. The best places to visit in India in May promise an escape from the heat and a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, adventure, and relaxation. Plan your summer vacation wisely and experience the beauty of India in the best possible way!
By choosing any of these best places to visit in India, you can make the most of your summer holidays while enjoying nature, culture, and adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the most enchanting destinations that India has to offer!
For more travel inspiration, check out our Travel Guide for 2025, and for travel bookings, check out Booking.com for exciting offers on your travel!
