Best Places to Visit in India in May (2025)

As summer sweeps across India, it brings with it blazing temperatures in most parts of the country. But don't sweat it — quite literally! There are pockets of paradise that remain cool, refreshing, and perfect for a summer escape.

In this detailed guide by Krunal Solanki, founder of TravelwSK, we’ve curated the 10 best places to visit in India in May for every type of traveler.

🏔️ 1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – The Classic Himalayan Escape

Why Visit:Manali offers snow-dusted peaks, meandering rivers, lively cafes, and adventure sports — all at a pleasant 10°C to 25°C in May.

Top Things to Do:

Paragliding in Solang Valley
Snow activities at Rohtang Pass
Café-hopping in Old Manali
Visit Hidimba Temple and Vashisht Hot Springs

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (50 km)
By Road: Well-connected via Delhi, Chandigarh (overnight Volvo buses)

Where to Stay:

Zostel Manali (budget & backpacker-friendly)
Johnson’s Lodge (mid-range)
The Himalayan (luxury castle-style hotel)

Pro Tip: Book Rohtang Pass permit online in advance to avoid on-ground delays.

🔗 More Manali Travel Guides – TravelwSK

🚞 2. Darjeeling, West Bengal – The Queen of the Hills

Why Visit:A hill town surrounded by tea gardens, monasteries, and toy trains, with spectacular views of Kanchenjunga.

Temperature in May: 11°C – 19°C

Top Things to Do:

Sunrise at Tiger Hill
Ride the UNESCO toy train
Visit Ghoom Monastery & Peace Pagoda
Explore Happy Valley Tea Estate

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra (70 km)
By Train: New Jalpaiguri Station (followed by taxi to Darjeeling)

Stay Options:

The Elgin Darjeeling (Heritage Luxury)
Singalila Homestay
Backpacker Panda Darjeeling (Budget)

Local Tip: Try the "Thukpa" & "Momos" in small Tibetan eateries near Chowrasta.

🔗 Explore more at KrunalSolanki.in

🌿 3. Munnar, Kerala – Tea Gardens & Tranquility

Why Visit:A lush green heaven with rolling tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Temperature in May: 15°C – 25°C

Things to Do:

Visit Eravikulam National Park (spot the Nilgiri Tahr)
Explore Tata Tea Museum
Hike to Anamudi Peak
Chill by Attukal Waterfalls

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport (110 km)
By Road: Well connected from Kochi, Alleppey, and Thekkady

Stay Options:

Blanket Hotel & Spa
Nature Zone Jungle Resort (Treehouses!)
Zostel Munnar (budget)

🔗 Plan your Kerala escape on TravelwSK

🌧️ 4. Shillong, Meghalaya – Scotland of the East

Why Visit:Known for its musical soul, pine forests, and thundering waterfalls.

Temperature in May: 12°C – 20°C

Must Do:

Visit Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak
Boating in Umiam Lake
Day trip to Dawki and Mawlynnong (Asia’s cleanest village)
Shop at Police Bazaar

How to Reach:

Nearest Airport: Shillong (Umroi Airport) or Guwahati (3-hour drive)
By Road: Guwahati to Shillong is scenic and smooth

Stay Options:

Café Shillong Bed & Breakfast
Ri Kynjai (Luxury with lake view)
Quinton Enclave (mid-range)

🔗 Read Meghalaya Diaries on TravelwSK

⛰️ 5. Spiti Valley, Himachal – Land of the Lamas

Why Visit:For surreal landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, and a high-altitude road trip experience.

Temperature in May: 8°C to 18°C

Top Experiences:

Explore Key & Tabo Monastery
Camp near Chandratal Lake
Ride through Kunzum Pass
Visit world’s highest post office in Hikkim

How to Reach:

By Road: Via Manali (open by mid-May) or Shimla-Kinnaur (longer but scenic)
Tip: Need 4-5 days minimum for proper exploration

Stay:

Zostel Spiti (Kaza)
Moustache Hostel
Local homestays in Langza, Komic

🔗 Check Spiti Travel Vlogs – TravelwSK YouTube

🧘 6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – River, Yoga & Adventure

Why Visit:Perfect blend of spirituality and adrenaline rush by the Ganges.

Things to Do in May:

White-water rafting
Sunset Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
Try bungee jumping
Join a yoga class or wellness retreat

Temperature: 15°C to 35°C

Stay Options:

Shiv Shakti Hostel
Aloha on the Ganges (luxury)
Parmarth Niketan (ashram stay)

🔗 Adventure & Wellness in Rishikesh – TravelwSK

🌄 7. Mount Abu, Rajasthan – Desert State’s Only Hill Station

Why Visit:Cool weather, spiritual vibes, and lake-side evenings in a state known for heat.

Temperature in May: 20°C to 30°C

Must-Visit Places:

Dilwara Jain Temples
Nakki Lake (boating)
Sunset Point
Guru Shikhar (highest peak of Aravalli)

How to Reach:

Nearest Station: Abu Road (28 km)
By Road: Udaipur or Ahmedabad (4–6 hours drive)

Stay:

Hotel Hillock
The Colonial Manek Manor
Mount Abu Backpackers Hostel

🔗 More Rajasthan Getaways – TravelwSK

“In May, India shows you two sides: its wild heat and its coolest escapes. The wise traveler picks the right altitude.”— Krunal Solanki, Founder, TravelwSK

Whether you're an explorer, a peaceful nomad, or a thrill-seeker, these destinations promise you an unforgettable summer. Bookmark TravelwSK.com and follow along for travel blogs, itineraries, and photo stories from India’s most beautiful corners.