Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu In May: Plan Your Summer Retreat

A scenic landscape view Anamalai hills, one of the places to visit in Tamil Nadu in May

Tamil Nadu presents a diverse array of destinations that offer respite from the extreme summer heat. The places to visit in Tamil Nadu in May encompass hill stations with temperate climates, stunning coastal regions, and culturally vibrant locations. This season is particularly well-suited for individuals wanting to explore a blend of natural splendour and cultural discovery, with abundant opportunities for trekking, beach activities, and sightseeing. Travellers can also enjoy the diversity of landscapes while avoiding the extreme heat in the plains.

11 Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu In May For A Tranquil Escapade

Here are the top places one can visit in Tamil Nadu in May, which offer a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage:

1. Kolli Hills

Beautiful view of Kolli Hills in Tamil Nadu, showing green hills and valleys under a clear sky

Photo: Dhiviyan R / Wikimedia Commons

Kolli Hills, situated in the Namakkal district, is a peaceful haven that is celebrated for its natural splendour and cultural importance. These hills are renowned for the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, which plunge from a remarkable height of approximately 300 feet. This has made them a top tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu in May. The region is abundant in medicinal plants, and it is said that ancient Siddha practitioners utilised these local herbs for various treatments.

Location: Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Finding the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls and the Arapaleeswarar Temple

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu With Family On A Holiday

2. Anamalai Hills

A stunning view of the Anamalai Hills, one of the popular May tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

The Anamalai Hills, often referred to as the Elephant Hills, are located within the Western Ghats. This region is celebrated for its biodiversity, as it forms a crucial part of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. Home to an array of wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and numerous avian species, this area serves as a sanctuary for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Moreover, the tea and coffee plantations that cover these hills attract many visitors.

Location: Tamil Nadu-Kerala border
Top Experiences: Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Exploring the Tea Estates

3. Meghamalai

A stunning sunset view over the hills of Meghamalai, with the sky painted in hues

Photo: DAIVASIKHAMANI / Wikimedia Commons

Meghamalai, often referred to as the “High Wavy Mountains,” is a beautiful hill station located in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu. This remote area presents breathtaking vistas of tea plantations, dense forests, and the Meghamalai Falls. This less-visited landscape is particularly appealing to nature enthusiasts. Meghamalai boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and rare avian species.

Location: Theni District, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Exploring the tea plantations, discovering the wildlife sanctuary, and Marvelling at Meghamalai Falls

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu During December

4. Javadi (Javadhu) Hills

Jawadhu Hills, one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu in may

Photo: Saravankm / Wikimedia Commons

Javadi Hills, situated within the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, is a remote region celebrated for its natural splendour and cultural significance. The Beemanmadavu Waterfalls stand out as a primary attraction, providing a rejuvenating escape into nature. Moreover, Javadi Hills is recognised for the cultivation of medicinal plants, along with its temperate climate. The picturesque landscape with dense forests and rocky terrain offers chances for photography and birdwatching.

Location: Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts
Top Experiences: Trekking, Beemanmadavu waterfalls, and tribal culture exploration

5. Manjolai Hills

View of Manjolai Hills tea plantations with rows of neatly trimmed tea bushes

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Manjolai Hills are among the serene hill stations situated within the Western Ghats. This location is primarily recognised for its expansive tea plantations, which offer not only beautiful views but also a refreshing, misty climate. Manjolai is less commercialised than other hill stations but is an ideal destination for individuals seeking a peaceful escape. The Kakkachi and Kudrevatti viewpoints deliver breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Location: Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Exploring tea plantations, Kakkachi viewpoint, and Manimuthar Falls

Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Tamil Nadu

6. Ooty Rose Garden

A close-up image of a vibrant red-petalled flower in Ooty Rose garden

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

The Ooty Rose Garden is among India’s most expansive rose gardens. Spanning approximately 10 acres, it boasts an impressive collection of over 20,000 varieties of roses, which include miniature roses, hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers. It has received numerous awards for its breathtaking collection, making it an essential destination for both plant lovers and tourists. The garden’s terraced arrangement provides stunning vistas of the adjacent hills, and the temperate climate of Ooty makes it an exemplary site for cultivating roses.

Location: Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Top Experiences: Exploring thousands of rose varieties and Attending the annual rose show

7. Yelagiri

A glimpse of a lake in Yelagiri, one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu in May.

Photo: cprogrammer / Wikimedia Commons

Yelagiri is a picturesque hill station located in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu at 1,110 metres above sea level. It is one of the best places to visit in May in Tamil Nadu. ​As May begins, this place comes alive with breathtaking vistas of deep valleys, lush green orchards, and rose gardens. Offering a laid-back experience, here you can explore scenic points, ancient temples, and serene water bodies. From basking in the tranquillity of Jalagamparai Waterfalls and seeking blessings at the Jalagandeeswarar Temple to enjoying a scenic boat ride at Punganoor Lake, there’s a lot to explore in Yelagiri.

Location: Tirupattur district, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Trekking to Swamimalai Hills, boating at Punganur Lake

Suggested Read: Prominent Places To Visit In Yelagiri For A Memorable Experience

8. Yercaud

A bird’s eye view of Yercaud, featuring towering mountains and lush green vegetation.

Photo: Sathish Ganesh / Unsplash

Tucked away in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu. It is an ideal destination for travellers looking for a tranquil escapade from the hubbub of city life. Decked with tranquil lakes, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, Yercaud is abundant with nature’s mesmerising beauty. Here, you can soak in the serenity of the gushing Kiliyur Falls, enjoy paddle-boating on Emerald Lake, marvel at the Yercaud Rose Garden, relish scenic vistas at Shevaroy Hills, and more. If you are a nature lover seeking a peaceful retreat, then Yercaud is the ideal place for you.

Location: Shevaroy Hills, Salem district, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Boating at Yercaud Lake, trekking to Kiliyur Falls, exploring Shevaroy Temple

9. Kodaikanal

A vibrant town in Kodaikanal, one of the scenic places to visit in Tamil Nadu in May.

Photo: Abhishek Prasad / Unsplash

With a symphony of natural beauty comprising wooded slopes, majestic trees, peaceful lakes, and emerald-green meadows, Kodaikanal is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread across the Western Ghats at an altitude of 7,200 feet, this place is among the astounding spots to explore in Tamil Nadu. From encountering mysteries at the Devils Kitchen and witnessing the crystal-clear waters of Kodai Lake to revelling in nature at the Bear Shola Falls and offering prayers at Kurinji Temple, there’s a lot to explore in this scenic abode.

Location: Palani Hills, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, exploring Coaker’s Walk, visiting Pillar Rocks

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

10. Mahabalipuram

A view of the ancient Shore Temple featuring intricately carved architecture and designs.

Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash

Mahabalipuram, a historically important attraction situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal. Offering a glimpse of the rich history of South India, Mahabalipuram is an ideal destination for history aficionados or someone who wants to dive deep into the vibrant culture of this place. Mahabalipuram boasts UNESCO world heritage sites including Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, and the Crocodile Bank. Here, you can also relish the astonishing vistas at Mahabalipuram Beach, witness the architectural beauty of Arjuna’s Penance, and admire the old-world charm of Tiger Caves.

Location: Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu
Top Experiences: Exploring Shore Temple, visiting Pancha Rathas, witnessing Arjuna’s Penance

11. Coimbatore

The Adiyogi Statue in Coimbatore, one of the top places to visit in Tamil Nadu in May.

Photo: at infinity / Unsplash

Coimbatore, also called the ‘Manchester of South India’ is one of the best places to visit in May in Tamil Nadu. From ancient temples to ultra-modern buildings, from towering peaks to stunning waterfalls, Coimbatore is blessed with the best of all worlds. It is an ideal destination for nature admirers, history buffs, and adventure enthusiasts. It is also home to the splendid 112-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva, known as the Adiyogi Shiva Statue which is also featured in the Guinness Book of World Records. Here, you can also explore Vydehi Falls, Marudhamalai Hill Temple, Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park, and more.

Location: Foothills of the Western Ghats
Top Experiences: Visiting Marudhamalai Temple, exploring Isha Yoga Center, shopping at Town Hall

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Coimbatore For A Memorable Experience

Tamil Nadu has numerous scenic and culturally significant sites to discover, from hill stations to coastal areas. These places to visit in Tamil Nadu during May offer an exemplary combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural engagement. Whether you want to learn about historical significance or simply wish to escape the sweltering summer heat, these locations guarantee a memorable experience. Choose TripXL and start planning your journey today.

Cover Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The coastal areas are usually warm yet breezy in May, which makes them quite suitable for beach outings and various water activities.
It is advisable to pack light, breathable garments for the plains; however, light layers might be beneficial for the cooler temperatures found in hill stations.
Hill stations tend to draw a larger number of visitors during this month (because of the delightful weather). But with correct planning, it is still possible to enjoy a peaceful experience.
Yes, Tamil Nadu offers a wide array of lodging alternatives, ranging from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly accommodations, particularly in popular tourist hotspots.
Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Coonoor, and Valparai are the best hill stations, known for their cool climate and scenic beauty.
You can enjoy trekking in the Nilgiris, boating in Kodaikanal and Ooty, scuba diving in Rameswaram, and wildlife safaris in Mudumalai and Annamalai.
Yes, May is great for wildlife spotting in Mudumalai National Park, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, as animals gather near water sources.

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