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Want some respite from the uncomfortable weather’s scorching heat and humidity? Then planning your vacation to one of the places to visit in May in India could be a wonderful idea. With its mix of pleasant weather in hill stations and cultural vibrancy in cities, the month is ideal for exploring various parts of the country. With so many hidden gems across the country, like Dalhousie in Himachal and Kotagiri in Tamil Nadu, there’s a wide range of experiences awaiting your presence.
Top 15 Places To Visit In May In India: Best Destinations To Beat The Heat
As you plan your destination, here is a list of a handful of places in India to visit in May with their unique charm.
1. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Abdullah Alam / Unsplash
Located in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Range, Dalhousie is an underrated hill station that serves as a perfect escape from the scorching summer heat. Featuring colonial charm and lush green landscapes, Dalhousie is one of the best places to see in May in India. As you plan your trip, start the vacation by exploring Panch Pulla waterfalls or going on a boat ride in Chamera Lake. For a quick day trip, make your way to Khajjiar, where you can take up boating or paragliding, or for the adventurer in your trek to the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.
Top Tourist Attractions: Khajjiar Lake, Chamera Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and St. John’s Church
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Monsoon In India
2. Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu
Photo: Prabhu Jagannathan / Unsplash
Up next on the list of places to visit in May in India is Kotagiri, a hill station in the Nilgiris. With its sprawling tea estates, mist-covered hills, and pleasant weather, Kotagiri offers a tranquil retreat. You can explore several other places to visit in Kotagiri, including the Kodanad View Point, to soak in the panoramic views or witness the grandeur of Catherine Falls. You can also visit the lush green Longwood Shola and the John Sullivan Memorial, which commemorates the popular curator, John Sullivan.
Top Tourist Attractions: Catherine Falls, Kodanad View Point, Longwood Shola, and Elk Falls
3. Leh, Kashmir
Photo: Darshan Chudasama / Unsplash
The capital city of Ladakh, Leh, is one of the best places to visit in May in India. It is a dream destination for many, especially those who have wanted to explore the valleys and ranges on a bike. Start your trip to Leh by visiting the famous Pangong Lake and Khardungla Pass. Later, get mesmerised by the optical illusion at Magnetic Hill and soak in the peace and serenity around Tso Moriri Lake. To get a closer look at the local monasteries, start by visiting Lamayuru Monastery, followed by Diksit Gompa.
Top Tourist Attractions: Pangong Lake, Thiksey Monastery, Leh Palace, and Magnetic Hill
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In January In India
4. Almora, Uttarakhand
Photo: Supratik Deshmukh / Unsplash
Almora, perched on a horseshoe-shaped ridge in the Kumaon region, is known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas and its rich cultural heritage. It is one of the best places to go in May in India to witness the pine and fir trees. Pair that with the charming cobbled streets and wildlife experiences at Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and Deer Park and you will not want to leave. The pleasant weather also makes it perfect for a trek to Zero Point exploring the bustling markets of Thana Bazar or seeking the blessing from Nanda Devi Temple.
Top Tourist Attractions: Nanda Devi Temple, Bright End Corner, Zero Point, and Katarmal Sun Temple
5. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Photo: Ishank Choudhary / Unsplash
If you’re already in Uttarakhand, Nainital is another good place to visit in May in India. The cool weather at the hill station offers the perfect respite from the scorching summer heat. Given its name, “Lake District in India,” your trip needs to start with visiting the famous Nainital Lake. Once done, you can then make your way to the High Altitude Zoo, followed by Eco Cave Gardens. For religious experiences, visit Mukteshwar Temple and Kainchi Dham. For some stunning panoramic views, make your way to the Tiffin Top, aka Dorothy’s Seat.
Top Tourist Attractions: Naini Lake, Sariyatal, Mukteshwar Temple, and Tiffin Top
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In India With Family For A Memorable Vacation
6. Chamba, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Mountain Girl / Unsplash
Chamba is hands-down the best destination to visit in May in India if you are tired of the summer heat and overcrowded tourist spots. This less-explored destination in Himachal Pradesh offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience. Start the trip on a religious note at the Champavati Temple, followed by a visit down to the Chamera Dam. For a day trip experience, make your way to the colourful town of Rang Mahal or explore the Akhand Chandi Palace. Even the Khajjiar Lake is nearby, or Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary for an extra adventure.
Top Tourist Attractions: Chamera Lake, Bhuri Singh Museum, Laxmi Narayan Temple, and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Photo: Abhishek Sah Photography / Shutterstock
Visiting Varanasi would be one of the best places to travel in May in India, without a doubt. One of the most empowering experiences is spending time at the ghats for spiritual awakening and peace of mind. Take part in the evening Ganga aarti at the Dasaswamedh Ghat, or witness the cycle of life come to an end at the Manikarnika Ghat. For a laidback and relaxing experience without excess crowds, make your way to Assi Ghat, nearby forts, museums, and the most revered temple in the country, Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Top Tourist Attractions: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath, and Banaras Hindu University
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8. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Photo: Vinay Bhadeshiya / Unsplash
Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is one of the best places to see in May in India. It provides a cool escape from the state’s scorching summer. Like most of Rajasthan, even Mount Abu has some historical forts and palaces, like Achalgarh Fort, that are worth visiting. If you are a nature lover and wish to explore different wildlife in front of your eyes, make your way to Trevor Tank. While you’re there, you can also admire the architecture of the Dilwara Jain Temple.
Top Tourist Attractions: Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar, Achalgarh Fort, and Sunset Point
9. Bhimtal, Uttarakhand
Photo: Fatima Hasan / Unsplash
Named after the character from Mahabharata Bhim for creating the Bhim Lake, is one of the places to visit in May in India. It is a small quaint town which still enjoys less population. It is believed that it was used as the resting spot for people travelling through the ancient Silk Road. Make your way to seek blessing at Sankat Mochan Mandir and trek to the Naina Peak to get a panoramic view of the surroundings. This summer, you can ditch the popular and overcrowded spots and rather spend days unwinding in the fresh air of Bhimtal.
Top Tourist Attractions: Bhimtal Lake, Sattal Lake, Nal Damayanti Tal, Karkotak Mandir, Space and Astronomy Museum, and Lok Sanskriti Museum
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In August In India
10. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Photo: Nature Photography / Unsplash
Largest hill station in the Sahyadri Ranges, Mahabaleshwar served as the summer capital of Marathas and later by Britishers. Amidst the natural wonders like cascading waterfalls and hills, the ancient forts and viewpoints throughout the region make it an even more intriguing place. Start your vacation by exploring the Pratapgarh Fort and Morarji Castle followed by visiting the most revered Mahabaleshwar Temple. Trek through the dense forest and explore the waterfalls and several viewpoints like Lodwick and Wilson Point. Binding the British and ancient architecture, Mahabaleshwar has everything you are looking for to spend a perfect summer holiday.
Top Tourist Attractions: Wilson Point, Dhobi Waterfall, Arthur Seat, and Kates Point
11. Shillong, Meghalaya
Photo: Windrider24584 / Wikimedia Commons
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. Once the capital of Assam, it sits at 1,520 metres above sea level, surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills. Often called the ‘Scotland of the East,’ Shillong is a must-visit for nature lovers. With stunning waterfalls, serene lakes, and a picturesque golf course, it’s an ideal getaway. If you’re exploring the top places to visit in India in May, Shillong is a great choice.
Top Tourist Attractions: Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls and Laitlum Canyons
12. Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: KennyOMG / Wikimedia Commons
Pahalgam, a charming hill station in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district, is known for its stunning scenery, trekking trails, and the famous Amarnath Yatra. This peaceful retreat has also been a favourite location for Bollywood films. For travellers seeking relaxation and adventure, Pahalgam is an ideal destination. Often called a ‘health resort,’ it offers breathtaking landscapes and refreshing mountain air. If you’re exploring the best places to visit in India during May, Pahalgam is a must-visit for its natural beauty.
Top Tourist Attractions: Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Baisaran Valley and Sheshnag Lake
13. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
Gulmarg, a charming town, is among the best tourist places to visit in May in India. Surrounded by breathtaking valleys and towering peaks, it is a paradise for trekkers and adventure seekers. Explore the scenic trails around Alpather Lake or take in the vast beauty of Kashmir Valley. Enjoy a picnic by the Ningle or Ferozpore streams while admiring the majestic Nanga Parbat. For thrill-seekers, the Gulmarg Gondola offers stunning views, and Mount Apharwat provides an exhilarating trekking challenge.
Top Tourist Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake and Strawberry Valley
14. Gangtok, Sikkim
Photo: Kailas98 / Wikimedia Commons
Sikkim, India’s smallest northeastern state, is bordered by Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, and West Bengal. Nestled in the Himalayas, it is home to Mt Kangchenjunga, India’s highest peak. The capital, Gangtok, was once a British military base and still reflects Tibetan influence in its monasteries and culture. Ideal for nature lovers, it offers a peaceful retreat from city life. A hub for trekkers, Gangtok is one of the best places to visit in India in May with family, offering breathtaking views.
Top Tourist Attractions: Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery and Tashi Viewpoint
15. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Spiti Valley, nestled in Himachal Pradesh at 12,500 feet, offers breathtaking views of rugged landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and winding roads. Known as ‘The Middle Land’, Spiti sits between India and Tibet and is home to ancient monasteries like the thousand-year-old Key Monastery. Adventure seekers can explore trekking trails, including routes from Kaza to Kunzum La, Dhankar Lake, and the mesmerising Chandratal Lake. Accessible only in summer, Spiti is a dream for travellers.
Top Tourist Attractions: Trilokinath Temple, Tashigang, Suraj Tal and Pin Valley National Park
Exploring the best places to visit in May in India allows you to escape the summer heat and relax for a few days or a few weeks in a city, town or village that’s colder and more pleasant to be in. So, plan a trip with TripXL to secure your hotels, and other bookings to avail the best travel package at affordable rates and set out on your next vacation.
Cover Photo: Bhattnitesh29 / Wikimedia Commons
