From the serene hills of Gangtok to the majestic allure of Leh Ladakh, discover 29 enchanting Indian destinations offering an array of experiences. Whether you seek adventure, tranquillity, or culinary delights, these destinations promise an unforgettable summer escape. Read on to learn about the best places you can visit in May.
Here is the list of the top 29 places in India in May that you must visit to make your summer vacation wholesome:
Gangtok in Sikkim is the pit stop for all the adventure lovers. This city has everything from scenic trekking trails to ancient Buddhist monasteries, making it one of the trending tourist spots in May. With its pleasant and tranquil weather in May, Gangtok is also an ideal destination for individuals seeking a summer retreat.
Situated in Uttarakhand at an elevation of 1700 metres, Lansdowne is an ethereal hill station that is commonly chosen by tourists to have a serene time. Distant from the urban hustle, this place is ideal for spending quality time amidst nature. You can explore the winding lanes of the surreal landscape while spotting a myriad of native Himalayan birds.
Located at an elevation of 11,500 feet, Leh is called the ‘white Paradise of Ladakh’. With its picturesque terrains and eminent monasteries, visiting Leh will leave you astounded. Immerse yourself in the ethereal views of the snow-covered mountains or satiate your appetite with scrumptious local cuisine; Leh is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in May.
Bhimtal, located near Nainital, is a surreal assemblage of temples and lakes. This ancient city in Uttarakhand, named after Bhima from the Mahabharata epic, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in May. Visiting this place and its temples will allow you to indulge in its tranquil local experience and flavourful local cuisine.
Located in the Eastern Himalayas, at an altitude of 2,045 metres, Darjeeling is home to abundant tea plantations, ancient monasteries, and hills. April to June is the peak season to visit Darjeeling, so you can expect warm yet breezy weather. Enjoy the panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest while sitting by the balcony of Darjeeling hotels and sipping flavourful Darjeeling Tea.
Spiti Valley, nestled in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, offers stunning landscapes, making it ideal for adventure lovers. Visiting Spiti Valley in May will let you experience its pleasant weather and unique cultural experiences. Located at an altitude of 12,500 ft, the hill station is notable for its blooming flora, rugged terrain, and deep valleys.
Bir-Billing in Himachal Pradesh is a renowned paragliding destination that is nestled in the scenic Kangra district. By visiting Bir-Billing in May with your friends, family or solo, you can enjoy its clear skies and gentle winds. This excellent weather condition is also perfect for exhilarating paragliding experiences. You can also visit places like Palpung Sherabling Monastery, which is one of the oldest monasteries, and the Chokling Monastery, known for its massive Padmasambhava statue.
McLeodganj, located in Himachal Pradesh, is a serene hill station that is renowned for its rich Tibetan culture and picturesque surroundings. In May, the weather is tranquil, with crystal clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking or camping. You can also spend your time at the Buddhist monasteries and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Chail, nestled in the lush greenery of Himachal Pradesh, offers a serene summer escape in May. You can explore its historic Chail Palace which is surrounded by pine and deodar forests. visiting here with your friends and family, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas, trek through scenic trails, and experience the pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities like camping and nature walks.
Almora offers serene beauty and cultural richness. When you visit this place in May, you will experience its tranquil ambience which is perfect for exploring its lush forests and ancient temples. Sitting by the balconies of its hotels, you can enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas. Additionally, you can go for nature walks, visit local markets, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.
Rishikesh is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World’. With many internationally acclaimed yoga centres and ashrams, it is the perfect place for a spiritual retreat. Besides, it offers serene landscapes and thrilling adventure sports for visitors. In May, the weather is warm, making it ideal for exploring the Ganges River, involving in outdoor activities such as river rafting, and discovering the city's vibrant culture and spirituality.
Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit in India in May for anyone looking for a summer escape. It is an ideal place to admire scenic viewpoints of Arthur's Seat and Lingmala Waterfall. Besides its glorious sunsets, you can also enjoy strawberry picking with your loved ones and indulge in local delicacies. May is the perfect time for nature lovers and adventure seekers to visit this hill station. However, you may expect occasional rainfall, so pack accordingly.
If you visit Ooty in May, you will be welcomed with pleasant weather and temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Here you can admire its picturesque tea plantations, serene lakes, and lush gardens. You must not miss the Nilgiri Mountain Railway journey and explore attractions like Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, and Doddabetta Peak for breathtaking views amidst the summer charm.
In May, Coorg offers mesmerising views of lush greenery, placid weather, and blooming coffee plantations. You can explore breathtaking landscapes and indulge in adventure activities like trekking and river rafting. You may also savour the delicious local cuisine. However, be prepared for occasional showers and carry light rain gear to enjoy your visit to the fullest.
Kodaikanal, located in Tamil Nadu, offers pleasant weather during the summer, making it one of the best places to visit in May in India. This region is mostly known for its scenic beauty, with serene lakes, rolling slopes, towering hills, and green forests. You should not miss out on popular attractions like Kodai Lake, Coaker's Walk, and Bryant Park. Moreover, May is ideal for indulging in outdoor activities here, including trekking and enjoying the cool mountain air.
Located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is a captivating hill station that is known for its lush greenery and rich coffee plantations. Its tranquil ambience makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and adventure amidst nature. Sakleshpur is adorned with picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and a pleasant climate that attracts trekkers and nature lovers.
Situated in Arunachal Pradesh at an altitude of about 3,048 metres, Tawang is a mesmerising hill station that beckons travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Known for its significant Buddhist heritage, Tawang is home to the majestic Tawang Monastery. This region is surrounded by the rugged eastern Himalayas, so you can explore its stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and rich cultural tapestry.
Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is known for its pleasant weather, tall mountains and dense forests surrounding it. Renowned for its coffee plantations and splendid landscapes, it is one of the best places to visit in May. The hill station is located at the base of Mullayanagiri Peak, which you can reach by trekking through lush green grasslands and forests. At the nearby wildlife sanctuary, you can spot wild elephants, leopards, and tigers.
Munnar is one of the most famous hill stations of the Western Ghats, located at the confluence of three mountain streams. Known for its tranquil ambience and lush greenery, Munnar is often called the “Kashmir of India”. By planning a trip here, you can stroll through its sprawling tea plantations, explore its green valleys, and witness its diverse wildlife. Munnar offers a tranquil retreat from the scorching heat of Indian summer to nature lovers.
Nestled in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas, Nainital is an ideal travel destination for families, weekend solo travellers and couples. This charming hill station is famous for its iconic Naini Lake, which is shaped like an eye. Moreover, it is surrounded by lush green mountains, which makes it a favourite spot for tourists to refresh their heart and soul. The town's bewitching colonial architecture will make you want to extend your trip.
Shillong is a picturesque hill station that invites travellers with its serene ambience and captivating beauty. Surrounded by stunning sights of lakes and waterfalls, rolling hills, and lush greenery, Shillong is widely known as the “Scotland of the East”. It is also a cultural centre of Meghalaya known for its museums, sacred groves, and music festivals.
Surrounded by picturesque snow-covered mountains and lush greenery, Dharamshala is a go-to place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. It shelters various enchanting old monasteries, making it an ideal tourist spot for all spiritual seekers. This vibrant hill town is also renowned for its unique blend of Tibetan culture and Indian influences, offering visitors a diverse and enriching experience. Moreover, this region offers budget-friendly accommodation and food options.
Shimla exudes timeless charm and a distinct colonial allure, making it one of the best places to visit in May in India. Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is considered the ‘Summer Capital of India’. When visiting Shimla, you will be captivated by its blend of Victorian architecture, scenic views, and vibrant local culture. You can take leisurely strolls in Shimla's quaint streets, uncovering cultural gems at every turn. Also, visit the panoramic viewpoints, where you can witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills.
Nestled in the northern end of the Kullu valley, Manali is an ideal summer destination. The hill station offers unforgettable views of snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, crystal-clear lakes, green valleys, and waterfalls. Beyond its charming landscapes, Manali offers a holistic blend of adrenaline-pumping activities, including paragliding, trekking, and rafting. From the hill station, you can go to famous places like the Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hampta Pass, and more.
Kinnaur, a picturesque district in Himachal Pradesh, is a hidden gem that you must explore in May. Blessed with breathtaking views of lush green valleys, blooming orchards, and snow-covered peaks, Kinnaur offers a serene escape from the summer heat and daily hustle. May is ideal for witnessing the blooming apple orchards, exploring ancient temples, and embarking on scenic treks amidst the pristine beauty of the Himalayan ranges and gushing rivers.
Located in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli stands as a breathtaking winter wonderland at a height of 2,909 metres. Booking a trip to Auli for your summer trip will be an excellent decision as this place offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. Known for its pristine ski slopes and panoramic views, Auli attracts thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. So, if you are planning to escape from the blazing summer heat, you must consider including Auli in your “go-to summer destinations” list.
Pachmarhi, nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, blooms in May, offering a glorious summer escape amidst lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. With its pleasant climate, the “Queen of Satpura Ranges” has become one of the ‘must-visit’ places for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Travelling here will allow you to explore its serene forests, ancient caves, and majestic viewpoints. So, immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this hidden gem that is tucked away in Central India.
May in Kashmir unveils a paradise adorned with blooming tulips, lush valleys, and snow-capped peaks. As the weather warms, the region bursts with vibrant colours, offering enchanting sights. A trip to the “paradise on Earth” will allow you to witness Srinagar's shimmering Dal Lake and indulge in the fragrant gardens of Shalimar Bagh. Adventure lovers can be involved in activities such as mountain biking, skiing, shikara riding, etc, making it one of the best places to visit in May.
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a captivating town in Kerala, popular for its tranquil backwaters and lush landscape. This 'Venice of the East' offers an enchanting experience with its network of canals, beaches, and lagoons. Take a summer trip here and glide through the backwaters on a traditional houseboat while observing the rich flora and fauna and indulge in the local cuisine for an unforgettable experience.
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Also Read - Vacation Financing: Want to Borrow to Travel? Here’s All You Need to Know
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Also Read - 9 Best Places for Solo Travel in India
Now that you have discovered the best places to visit in May in India, planning your summer trip will be easier. From the tranquil hills of Gangtok to the allure of Darjeeling, each place offers a unique blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural richness. So, embark on unforgettable journeys and create cherished memories by availing a Personal Loan for Travel with Poonawalla Fincorp with minimal documentation and quick disbursal.
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