Travel Blogs

May is the peak of summer in most parts of India, bringing intense heat to the plains, but it also opens up cool escapes in the hills, adventurous treks, and some of the best wildlife viewing of the year. While southern and central India warm up, the Himalayan states and high-altitude destinations shine as perfect summer retreats. Here’s your destination-wise guide to the best places to visit in India in May.

Excellent to Visit in May

Ladakh
One of the first accessible summer months, with clear roads opening to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Khardung La. Expect bright blue skies, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking landscapes.

Himachal Pradesh (Manali, Spiti, Dharamshala)
May is perfect for both family vacations and trekkers. Spiti Valley becomes accessible, and places like Manali and McLeodganj offer a cool escape with blooming meadows and hiking trails.

Uttarakhand (Mussoorie, Auli, Chopta, Nainital)
Ideal for hill stations, trekking, and spiritual getaways. Visit Kedarnath, Badrinath, and explore Valley of Flowers if open. Also perfect for Rishikesh rafting and Corbett safaris.

Sikkim
Fully accessible with clear skies, rhododendron blooms, and refreshing temperatures. Ideal for Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Gangtok’s monasteries.

Darjeeling
May offers cool weather, tea gardens in full bloom, and views of Kanchenjunga. Perfect for scenic toy train rides and peaceful stays.

Arunachal Pradesh (Tawang, Ziro, Bomdila)
A top month to explore tribal culture, green valleys, and high passes before the rains arrive. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Meghalaya
Early May still allows you to explore Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong before the heavy monsoon. Waterfalls are active and landscapes are vivid.

Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg
Southern hill stations remain cool and inviting. Enjoy scenic drives, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and lake boating away from the heat of the plains.

Good to Visit in May (Slight Seasonal Watch)

Kerala (Munnar, Wayanad, Thekkady)
Mildly humid but still green and lush in the highlands. Good for treehouse stays, wildlife sanctuaries, and cool mornings. Avoid the coastal plains, which get warmer.

Goa
Hot and humid, but ideal for off-season deals, quiet beaches, and monsoon-prep tranquility. Great for budget travelers and relaxed itineraries.

Tamil Nadu (Ooty, Yercaud, hill regions)
Coastal areas are hot, but hill stations provide relief. Visit Yelagiri, Coonoor, and Kodaikanal for nature and peaceful getaways.

Madhya Pradesh
Very hot, but excellent for tiger spotting. Dry forests in Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench offer maximum visibility of wildlife around waterholes.

Varanasi
Spiritual visits continue, but with caution due to heat. Visit early mornings or evenings for ghats walks, boat rides, and rituals.

Fair – Monitor Conditions

Rajasthan
Scorching heat during the day (~42–45°C). Sightseeing is possible in early mornings and evenings. Better suited for travelers used to high temperatures or staying in heritage properties with pools.

Delhi NCR
Hot and dry with occasional dust storms. Outdoor sightseeing is challenging mid-day. Limit exposure and plan morning or indoor visits.

Gujarat
High temperatures across the state. Wildlife parks close by mid-June. Consider only for Gir National Park visits or short early-day excursions.

Punjab (Amritsar, Ludhiana)
Very hot. Visits to the Golden Temple and heritage spots are possible with early starts and sun protection. Avoid mid-day outings.

Assam & Kaziranga
Kaziranga closes mid-May. Rain starts to build up in Assam. Best only in early May if you want to visit.

Summary Table

Feature Image:- Photo by Mayur More on Unsplash