15 Best Places to Visit in May in India

Looking for the perfect summer getaway? India offers a rich mix of hill stations, beaches, and cultural hubs that are ideal for exploring in May. Whether you're chasing snow-capped peaks or relaxing on sun-kissed shores, this guide to the best places to visit in May in India has got you covered.

Why Travel in May?
May marks the transition from spring to summer in most parts of India. While the plains heat up, the hills, coastal regions, and Northeast India offer cool retreats, fresh blooms, and clear skies — perfect for adventure, honeymooning, or family vacations.

15 Best Places to Visit in May in India
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Tucked in the Beas River Valley, Manali offers lush green valleys, snow-draped mountains, and plenty of adventure. It’s perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Key Locations: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple

How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhuntar; by road from Delhi or Chandigarh

Weather in May: 10°C to 25°C

Things to Do: Paragliding, river rafting, trekking, cafe hopping

2. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
The spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism, Dharamshala offers pine forests, temples, and tranquility.

Key Locations: McLeod Ganj, Bhagsunath Falls, Namgyal Monastery

How to Reach: Gaggal Airport or road from Pathankot/Kangra

Weather in May: 15°C to 25°C

Things to Do: Meditation retreats, treks to Triund, Tibetan food tours

3. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
The ‘Queen of Hills’ is famous for its misty hills, scenic walks, and colonial charm.

Key Locations: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road

How to Reach: Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) + 1 hr by road

Weather in May: 12°C to 27°C

Things to Do: Ropeway rides, shopping at Mall Road, sightseeing

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Centered around the Naini Lake, Nainital is a peaceful and family-friendly hill station.

Key Locations: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple

How to Reach: Nearest railway station – Kathgodam

Weather in May: 10°C to 25°C

Things to Do: Boating, cable car rides, zoo visits

5. Goa
Less crowded in May, Goa offers peaceful beaches, cultural tours, and amazing food.

Key Locations: Anjuna, Calangute, Old Goa churches

How to Reach: Dabolim Airport or Madgaon Railway Station

Weather in May: 28°C to 35°C (humid)

Things to Do: Water sports, heritage walks, sunset cruises

6. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Dreamy and rugged, Ladakh in May is accessible with clear skies and snow-kissed landscapes.

Key Locations: Pangong Lake, Khardung La, Magnetic Hill

How to Reach: Leh Airport or Manali-Leh Highway (open late May)

Weather in May: 7°C to 15°C

Things to Do: Biking, stargazing, monastery visits

7. Munnar, Kerala
With rolling tea gardens and cool weather, Munnar is a soothing green escape.

Key Locations: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum

How to Reach: Cochin Airport + 3 hrs by road

Weather in May: 15°C to 25°C

Things to Do: Tea tasting, trekking, plantation walks

8. Wayanad, Kerala
An offbeat hill station with waterfalls, caves, and spice plantations.

Key Locations: Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Falls

How to Reach: Kozhikode Airport + 2-3 hrs drive

Weather in May: 20°C to 30°C

Things to Do: Hiking, exploring caves, visiting tribal villages

9. Alleppey, Kerala
The "Venice of the East" is famous for tranquil backwaters and houseboat stays.

Key Locations: Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha Beach, Punnamada Lake

How to Reach: Cochin Airport + 1.5 hrs drive

Weather in May: 25°C to 32°C

Things to Do: Houseboat cruise, ayurvedic massage, temple visits

10. Gangtok, Sikkim
A blend of Buddhist culture, lush hills, and urban appeal makes Gangtok a Northeast gem.

Key Locations: MG Road, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point

How to Reach: Bagdogra Airport + 4 hrs road or Pakyong Airport

Weather in May: 13°C to 22°C

Things to Do: Ropeway ride, monastery visits, shopping

11. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
A mystical glacial lake located near Gangtok, ideal for nature and snow lovers.

Key Locations: Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass (requires permit)

How to Reach: 2 hrs drive from Gangtok

Weather in May: Sub-zero to 10°C

Things to Do: Yak rides, photography, snow play

12. Udaipur, Rajasthan
The city of lakes offers heritage, architecture, and royal grandeur even during warmer months.

Key Locations: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir

How to Reach: Maharana Pratap Airport or Udaipur Junction

Weather in May: 25°C to 38°C

Things to Do: Boat rides, cultural shows, palace tours

13. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
The golden hues of the Thar Desert and majestic forts make Jaisalmer magical.

Key Locations: Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, Patwon ki Haveli

How to Reach: Jaisalmer Railway Station or Jodhpur Airport + 5 hrs

Weather in May: 28°C to 42°C

Things to Do: Camel safaris, camping, fort exploration

14. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A tropical paradise with coral reefs, marine life, and serene blue waters.

Key Locations: Havelock Island, Neil Island, Cellular Jail

How to Reach: Flights to Port Blair

Weather in May: 25°C to 31°C

Things to Do: Scuba diving, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides

15. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Known for yoga and white-water rafting, Rishikesh blends spirituality with adventure.

Key Locations: Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev

How to Reach: Dehradun Airport or Rishikesh Railway Station

Weather in May: 20°C to 35°C

Things to Do: River rafting, yoga, Ganga aarti

Travel Tips for May in India
Book accommodations early for hill stations

Carry sunscreen, hats, and light cotton clothes

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated

Check weather and road conditions (especially in Leh or Sikkim)

Final Thoughts
From the snow-kissed peaks of Ladakh to the calm backwaters of Alleppey, there’s a destination for every kind of traveler in this list of the best places to visit in May in India. Plan smart, travel light, and make the most of your summer escape.