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May is an excellent time to explore the hills and valleys of North India, where the cool weather and stunning landscapes provide a refreshing retreat. With peaceful lakes, green valleys, and various attractions, these places to visit in May in North India provide something special for everyone. Individuals who love nature, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts can all find the ideal destination in North India to enjoy a break from the summer heat. From beautiful waterfalls to scenic trails and lively markets, these mountain towns deliver relaxation, adventure, and lasting memories.
Top 10 Places To Visit In May In North India
Here are the best places to visit in May in North India this year for an escape from the summer heat.
1. Shimla
Photo: Naman Pandey / Unsplash
Shimla provides a cool break from the summer heat, with temperatures ranging between 15 and 25°C in May. The town’s main street, Mall Road, is filled with shops and cafés, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors. One of the town’s highlights is the famous toy train, which travels from Kalka to Shimla, passing through stunning mountains before reaching the town. Christ Church, with its yellow walls, is also a notable landmark from the colonial era, adding to Shimla’s historical appeal. The town also combines historic charm with modern amenities, featuring a range of restaurants for visitors.
Major Attractions: The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Annadale, Summer Hill
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
2. Manali
Photo: kumar chandugade / Unsplash
Manali, surrounded by green valleys and the Beas River, has nice weather in May, making it a lively destination. The main market is bustling with stalls that sell woollen clothes and local handicrafts, giving visitors a taste of the region’s culture. Food lovers can try siddu (stuffed bread) or fresh trout from the river, offering a unique culinary experience. The Hadimba Temple, one of the oldest structures in town, stands out with its wooden architecture, adding a historical touch. Accommodation options in the area range from riverside hotels to cosy lodges, catering to different preferences.
Major Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Vashisht Hot Springs
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport at Bhuntar
Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh Railway Station
3. Nainital
Photo: Anubhav Rana / Unsplash
Nainital’s stunning lake is the town’s main attraction, offering boat rides with views of the surrounding green hills. Additionally, Mall Road runs alongside the lake and is lined with shops and restaurants that are perfect for exploring. A cable car ride to Snow View Point offers breathtaking mountain views, making for an unforgettable experience. Hotels of all budgets are available, many with lake-view rooms. The local markets are busy with stalls selling warm clothes and handmade candles. With temperatures ranging from 15–25°C, Nainital is perfect for outdoor activities, making it one of the best places to visit in May in North India.
Major Attractions: Naina Peak, Nainital Zoo, Eco Cave Gardens
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
4. Mussoorie
Photo: Abhishek Rathi / Unsplash
Mussoorie, with its cool weather in May, is a favourite hill station for many, offering a refreshing break from the heat. Mall Road, always bustling with people, is a great place to shop and try authentic foods. Moreover, Kempty Falls, located about 15 kilometres away, is an ideal spot for a picnic, providing a serene atmosphere. A cable car ride to Gun Hill offers stunning views of snow-covered peaks, adding to the town’s charm. Hotels on the hillsides offer comfortable stays with excellent views, while food lovers can savour Tibetan dishes and local street food.
Major Attractions: Camel’s Back Road, Landour, Company Garden, Mussoorie Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
5. Darjeeling
Photo: Joy Amed / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Darjeeling, known for its tea gardens spread across rolling hills, offers visitors a unique experience. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, takes passengers through the mountains, offering stunning views of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Each morning, the town is filled with the aroma of fresh tea and baked goods, setting a charming tone for the day. Many tourists head to Tiger Hill early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the peaks. The town combines colonial buildings with Buddhist monasteries, while local markets feature woollen clothes, tea, and Tibetan food.
Major Attractions: Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
6. Rishikesh
Photo: NARINDER PAL / Unsplash
Rishikesh, known for its temples, riverbanks, and adventure activities, offers a unique experience for every traveller. The Ganges flows through the town, with visitors walking across famous suspension bridges like Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula. In the evenings, the ghats come alive with mesmerising aarti ceremonies. For adventure enthusiasts, white-water rafting and yoga classes at peaceful ashrams are popular activities. With a mix of Indian and international cuisine, local cafés cater to food lovers, while the pleasant May weather allows visitors to enjoy both spiritual and adventure experiences.
Major Attractions: Beatles Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Vashishta Gufa
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
7. Kasauli
Photo: Amrinder Singh / Unsplash
This quiet hill town charms visitors with its old-time feeling that reminds you of simpler days. Furthermore, the town’s narrow lanes and well-preserved colonial buildings, such as the old Kasauli Club and Christ Church, reflect its British-era origins, offering insight into its history as a former cantonment established in 1842. Because May brings warm weather, nature walks become really nice, taking you to fruit orchards and pretty viewpoints. During your walk, you can also visit the old Kasauli Brewery, one of India’s oldest breweries. Small cafés serve tasty local foods, and those who climb to Monkey Point, the town’s highest spot, get amazing views across the plains below.
Major Attractions: Gilbert Nature Trail, Heritage Walks
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station
8. Lansdowne
Photo: Shubham Rawat / Unsplash
Lansdowne is a peaceful hill station with a strong military presence, home to the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre. The weather in May is nice, making it one of the best places to go in May in North India. The town has beautiful oak and pine forests, and its quiet roads lead to historic churches like St. Mary’s and St. John’s, known for their stained-glass windows. The Tip-n-Top viewpoint offers amazing views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Bhulla Tal, a small lake, is perfect for boating. The town is great for birdwatching and exploring nature, with small guesthouses and cottages offering a homely stay.
Major Attractions: War Memorial, Regimental Museum, Old Cemetery
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Kotdwar Railway Station
9. Dalhousie
Photo: Abdullah Alam / Unsplash
Spreading across five hills, Dalhousie is known for its colonial buildings and natural beauty, which becomes even more vibrant in May when rhododendrons bloom under the warm sun. Trails through dense deodar forests lead to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Himalayan animals, before opening up to Khajjiar, a large green meadow often called the Mini Switzerland of India. Additionally, Gandhi Chowk’s lively markets showcase Himachali shawls and handmade crafts, offering a glimpse into the region’s traditions. As the day ends, Panchpula’s gentle waterfalls provide a quiet place to relax in nature.
Major Attractions: Dainkund Peak, Satdhara Falls, Heritage Walk
Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
10. Ranikhet
Ranikhet offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, especially in May when the weather is nice and perfect for exploring. A short drive leads to Chaubatia’s orchards, where apple, peach, and apricot trees create a refreshing escape before reaching one of Asia’s highest golf courses, set at 6,000 feet with a scenic mountain backdrop. Nearby, the Jhula Devi Temple, known for its numerous bells tied by devotees, is a respected Hindu place of worship. As evening falls, the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum shares the region’s military history, and markets showcase handcrafted goods and local delicacies.
Major Attractions: Majkhali Viewpoint, Heritage Cantonment Walk, Scenic Hiking Trails
Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
May is an excellent time to explore India’s hill stations, each offering breathtaking landscapes, nice weather, and unforgettable experiences. From the misty tea gardens of Darjeeling to the serene lakes of Nainital, every destination has something special. Plan your next getaway and experience these famous places to visit in May in North India. Plan a trip with TripXL for the best travel deals and seamless experiences.
Cover Photo: Guduru Ajay bhargav / Pexels
