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Trekking in May is ideal, with favourable weather in many regions. Top destinations include India, Nepal, Chile, and Australia, each offering unique landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. From high-altitude treks in the Himalayas to long-distance hikes in Patagonia, options abound. Understanding difficulty levels, travel tips, and essential gear ensures better planning. Whether through mountains, forests, or coastal paths, May is perfect for an unforgettable trekking adventure.
10 Best Destinations For Trekking In May
Discover the top trekking destinations in May, with pleasant weather and scenic trails:
1. Hamta Pass, India
Photo: Dakshchadha1 / Wikimedia Commons
Hamta Pass is one of the best trekking destinations in May, connecting the green valleys of Kullu to the dry landscapes of Lahaul. This 26 kilometre trek reaches 4,270 metres and takes about four days. The difficulty level is moderate and suitable for beginners with some trekking experience. Along the route, trekkers see small Himalayan villages and interact with the local people. The area has wildflowers, deodar forests, and occasional snow patches.
Permit Required: No special permits are required; however, registration with local authorities is advisable
2. The Machame Route, Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Photo: Chris / Wikimedia Commons
The Machame Route is a famous trail to reach the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. This popular trekking place in May is about 62 kilometres long and takes six to seven days. The trek is challenging due to steep climbs and high altitude. The local Chagga people live near the mountain and have unique traditions. The route passes through forests with monkeys and alpine deserts with little vegetation. Trekkers must carry warm clothes, waterproof gear, and energy snacks.
Permit Required: Climbing permits are mandatory and usually arranged by licensed tour operators
3. The Great Ocean Walk, Australia
Photo: Thomas ENGUEHARD / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Great Ocean Walk is a 104 kilometre coastal trail in Victoria, making it one of May’s top hiking trails worldwide. The trek takes seven to eight days and is moderately difficult. Hikers pass through old forests, cliffs, and beaches. The area has native animals like koalas, kangaroos, and seabirds. The route is close to small towns where travellers can experience Australian culture. Trekkers should carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. The weather can change quickly, so layered clothing is important.
Permit Required: No permits are required for day hikes
4. The Annapurna Circuit Trek, Nepal
Photo: Sergey Ashmarin / Wikimedia Commons
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best trekking destinations in May, covering 160 to 230 kilometres over 15 – 20 days. The difficulty level is high due to the altitude, with Thorong La Pass reaching 5,416 metres. The route passes through Gurung and Thakali villages, where trekkers can experience Nepali culture. The region has rhododendron forests, yaks, and even snow leopards. Trekkers should carry thermal wear, trekking poles, and energy bars. It is advisable to take regular breaks and stay at tea houses to adjust to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Permit Required: Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a Trekkers’ Information Management System card
5. The Milford Track, New Zealand
Photo: AlasdairW / Wikimedia Commons
The Milford Track is a 53.5 kilometre trail in Fiordland National Park and is one of the top hiking trails worldwide in May. The trek takes four days and is moderately difficult. Trekkers walk through valleys and rainforests and cross wooden bridges. The area has rich wildlife, including kea parrots and fur seals. Māori culture is significant in the region, and historical sites can be seen along the route. Trekkers should carry waterproof gear, comfortable boots, and light backpacks. It is important to book huts in advance as camping is not allowed along the track.
Permit Required: A Great Walks Pass is required, and huts must be booked in advance
6. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
Photo: Daniel Oberhaus / Wikimedia Commons
The Everest Base Camp Trek is a classic trail in Nepal and one of the most popular trekking places in May. The trek covers about 130 kilometres and takes 12 days. It is a difficult trek due to high altitude and low oxygen levels. The route passes through Sherpa villages, where trekkers can see Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags. The region has rhododendron forests and Himalayan goats. Trekkers should carry thermal wear, gloves, and altitude sickness medicine. Walking at a steady pace and taking acclimatisation days help in completing the trek successfully.
Permit Required: Trekkers need a Sagarmatha National Park Permit and a TIMS card
7. Ranthan Kharak Trek, India
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Ranthan Kharak Trek in Uttarakhand is a lesser-known trail, making it one of the best trekking destinations in May for those looking for a quiet trek. The trek is 40 kilometres long, reaching about 3,500 metres, and takes five days. The difficulty level is moderate. The route passes through small villages where trekkers can meet the local people. The area has oak and pine forests and birds like Himalayan monals. Trekkers should carry trekking poles, warm clothes, and enough snacks.
Permit Required: No special permits required; local forest department permissions may be needed
8. Adi Kailash And Om Parvat Trek, India
Photo: KRISHNA1106 / Wikimedia Commons
The Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Trek in Uttarakhand is a religious trek and one of the popular trekking places in May. The trek is about 100 kilometres long and takes 10 – 12 days. The difficulty level is high due to rough terrain. The region has Hindu temples and monasteries, attracting many pilgrims. Trekkers pass through pine forests and might see Himalayan bears and musk deer. It is important to carry waterproof jackets, first aid kits, and good trekking shoes. Travellers should start training before the trek to build stamina for long walking days.
Permit Required: Special permits are required as the trek is near the Indo-Tibetan border
9. Torres Del Paine Circuit, Chile
Photo: LBM1948 / Wikimedia Commons
The Torres Del Paine Circuit in Chile is a well-known trek in Patagonia and one of the top hiking trails worldwide in May. The trek is 130 kilometres long and takes 8 – 10 days. It is a difficult trek due to unpredictable weather and river crossings. The region is home to pumas, foxes, and condors. The trail passes by small lodges where travellers can meet locals. Trekkers should carry thermal clothes, a sleeping bag, and waterproof gear. It is recommended to plan the trek well and check weather forecasts before starting the journey.
Permit Required: A permit is required for entry into Torres Del Paine National Park
10. Bhrigu Lake, India
Photo: Kartik.a.rokde / Wikimedia Commons
The Bhrigu Lake Trek is a short but challenging trek in Himachal Pradesh, making it one of the best trekking destinations in May. The trek is 25 kilometres long and takes about three days, reaching an altitude of 4,300 metres. The route passes through meadows and small shepherd huts. The area has alpine flowers and grazing sheep. Trekkers should carry layered clothing, extra socks, and trekking poles. It is best to start early in the morning as the weather changes quickly.
Permit Required: No special permits are required
Trekking in May offers ideal weather and access to diverse trails worldwide. From challenging mountain routes to scenic coastal walks, trekkers can explore various terrains and cultures. Proper planning and the right gear ensure a smooth journey. Embark on your next adventure with TripXL and experience the thrill of trekking this May!
Cover Photo: Raja Selvaraj / Wikimedia Commons
