Known For : Dal Lake Pampore (Saffron Town) Doodhpathri
Kashmir is often referred to as "Paradise on Earth" due to its breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and pristine lakes. May is a beautiful time to visit as the weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom, making places like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam particularly enchanting. Visitors can enjoy shikara rides on Dal Lake, explore the local markets, and savor traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
Best Time: September - November; March - May
Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty
Ooty, known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," offers a cool and refreshing climate during May, making it a popular getaway. Surrounded by lush gardens, tea plantations, and stunning viewpoints, visitors can explore the scenic Nilgiri hills, take a ride on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and enjoy boating on Ooty Lake. The picturesque landscapes and colonial charm make it a perfect retreat.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Pothamedu View Point Eravikulam National Park Rose Garden Munnar
Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, rolling hills, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in May. The pleasant weather provides an ideal backdrop for trekking, tea plantation tours, and visits to attractions like Anamudi Peak and the Eravikulam National Park. With its serene environment and cool climate, Munnar is perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak
Shillong, often referred to as the "Scotland of the East," is known for its beautiful hills, waterfalls, and vibrant culture. The pleasant weather in May makes it an ideal time to explore attractions like the stunning Elephant Falls, the living root bridges, and the local markets. Shillong is also famous for its music scene and offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Khasi tribe.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Solang Valley Hadimba Devi Temple Manali Mall Road
Manali is a charming hill station known for its stunning vistas, adventure sports, and vibrant culture. In May, the snow begins to melt, revealing lush greenery and wildflowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, paragliding, and river rafting. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, making it a popular choice for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Nathula Pass MG Road, Gangtok Tsomgo Lake
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a vibrant city set amidst the majestic Himalayas. May is a great time to visit as the weather is mild, and the views of the Kanchenjunga range are spectacular. Visitors can explore the Enchey Monastery, ride the ropeway for panoramic views, and experience the local culture through festivals and traditional cuisine.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall
Bir Billing is a serene destination famous for its stunning landscapes and paragliding opportunities. In May, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, making it a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can take part in paragliding, trek through the picturesque hills, and explore Tibetan monasteries, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this charming village.
Best Time: March - May; September - November
Known For : Chembra Peak Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Stay in a Treehouse
Wayanad is a stunning district in Kerala, known for its rich wildlife, lush green landscapes, and pleasant climate. May is a great time to visit as the region comes alive with blooming flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the Edakkal Caves, enjoy wildlife safaris in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and trek to scenic viewpoints, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Tawang Monastery Sela Pass Madhuri Lake
Tawang, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is renowned for its stunning monasteries and breathtaking landscapes. May is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the scenery is vibrant with blooming flowers. The Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in India, offers a spiritual experience, while the surrounding mountains provide opportunities for trekking and exploration.
Best Time: March - June; September - October
Known For : Pangong Lake Zanskar Valley Khardung La
Leh Ladakh is a mesmerizing region known for its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and rich Buddhist culture. May marks the beginning of the tourist season, with pleasant weather allowing for exploration of iconic sites like Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, biking, and river rafting, making it an unforgettable experience.
Best Time: April - Mid-July
Jammu and Kashmir is a breathtaking region that boasts stunning landscapes, rich culture, and historical significance. May is the perfect time to explore destinations like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, with pleasant weather and blooming gardens. Visitors can enjoy houseboat stays on Dal Lake, explore Mughal gardens, and partake in various outdoor activities.
Horsley Hills tops the list of places to visit in May in India for its serene ambiance and favorable weather. With temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, May offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as trekking, wildlife exploration, and enjoying scenic viewpoints. The blooming flora enhances the natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts seeking respite from the summer heat.
Arunachal Pradesh is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and vibrant festivals. May is a great time to visit, as the weather is pleasant for exploring beautiful destinations like Tawang, Ziro Valley, and the Siang River. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture, explore ancient monasteries, and enjoy trekking and river rafting adventures.
Known For : Great Himalayan National Park Serlosar Lake Jalori Pass
Tirthan Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, is known for its pristine rivers, lush greenery, and tranquility. May is an ideal time to visit, as the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty is at its peak. Visitors can indulge in trout fishing, trekking, and exploring the Great Himalayan National Park, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Best Time: Mar to June, October to November
Known For : Kudremukh Trek Kudremukh National Park Hanuman Gundi Falls
Kudremukh is a stunning hill station in Karnataka, known for its lush forests, hills, and diverse wildlife. May offers a pleasant climate, making it ideal for trekking and exploring the scenic beauty of the Kudremukh National Park. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the peak, as well as the unique biodiversity of the region.
Best Time: October to May
Known For : Key Monastery Chandratal Lake Pin Valley National Park
Spiti Valley is a remote and breathtaking destination known for its stark landscapes and rich Buddhist heritage. May is the start of the travel season, with snow melting and roads opening up, allowing visitors to explore ancient monasteries and stunning mountain views. The unique culture and adventure opportunities, such as trekking and camping, make it a must-visit.
Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct
Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala is a captivating destination known for its Tibetan culture and stunning mountain scenery. May offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring attractions like the Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall, and local markets. Visitors can also engage in meditation retreats, yoga sessions, and hiking trails, immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere.
Best Time: October to June
Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is famous for its stunning backwaters, lush greenery, and serene beaches. May offers warm weather, making it an excellent time to explore destinations like Alleppey, Munnar, and Wayanad. Visitors can enjoy houseboat cruises, spice plantation tours, and relaxing Ayurvedic treatments, immersing themselves in the state's rich culture and natural beauty.
Known For : Reckong Peo Nako Kalpa
Kinnaur is a breathtaking district in Himachal Pradesh, known for its apple orchards, lush valleys, and stunning mountain landscapes. May is a great time to visit as the region is adorned with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. Visitors can explore the quaint villages, trek through scenic trails, and experience the unique local culture.
Best Time: April to June; September, October
Known For : Rudradhari Falls and Caves Gwaldam Trek to Pinnath
Kausani is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, known for its panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi and Trishul. May brings pleasant weather, making it perfect for nature walks and exploring the lush surroundings. The serene ambiance and beautiful sunrise and sunset views make it an ideal spot for relaxation.
Best Time: April to June, September to December
Known For : Chail Palace Hotel Chail Cricket Ground Chail wildlife sanctuary
Chail is a picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh, famous for its stunning landscapes and pleasant climate. In May, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, explore the Chail Palace, and indulge in trekking through lush pine forests. The serene environment and panoramic views make Chail a delightful getaway.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple
Mcleodganj, known as the residence of the Dalai Lama, is a vibrant town that offers a blend of Tibetan culture and natural beauty. May is an excellent time to visit, with pleasant weather allowing for exploration of monasteries, local markets, and trekking trails. Visitors can engage in meditation, learn about Tibetan culture, and enjoy delicious cuisine.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi
Almora, a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, offers a tranquil escape with its lush forests and panoramic views of the Himalayas. May brings pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the local markets, temples, and nearby hiking trails. The rich cultural heritage and serene ambiance make Almora a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Elk Falls Longwood Shola Trekking
Kotagiri, located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, is a peaceful hill station known for its tea plantations and scenic views. In May, the weather is cool and inviting, perfect for leisurely walks and exploring the picturesque surroundings. Visitors can enjoy tea tasting, trekking, and soaking in the serene atmosphere of this charming town.
Best Time: December to May
Known For : River Rafting in Dandeli Kali Tiger Reserve Magod Falls
Dandeli is a popular adventure destination in Karnataka, known for its lush forests and the Kali River. May offers great weather for activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and trekking through the wildlife sanctuary. The rich biodiversity and thrilling adventures make Dandeli an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Best Time: October to May
Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves
Pachmarhi, the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. May is an excellent time to visit, as the weather is pleasant for exploring waterfalls, caves, and lush greenery. The serene environment and numerous trekking trails make Pachmarhi a wonderful retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall
Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, famous for its stunning viewpoints, lush forests, and strawberry farms. In May, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the scenic viewpoints, enjoy boating on Venna Lake, and sample fresh strawberries, making it a delightful escape.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla Visceral Lodge
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a charming hill station known for its colonial architecture and scenic landscapes. May is a popular time to visit, with pleasant weather and vibrant flowers in bloom. Visitors can explore the Mall Road, visit the historic Jakhoo Temple, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Chikmagalur, known as the coffee capital of Karnataka, is famous for its lush coffee plantations and picturesque landscapes. May offers pleasant weather, making it perfect for coffee tours, nature walks, and exploring nearby hills. The serene ambiance and rich biodiversity make it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley Lachen
North Sikkim offers some of the most stunning landscapes in India, featuring snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and vibrant rhododendron forests. May is an excellent time to explore this region, as the weather is mild, and the stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range are breathtaking. Visitors can trek to Yumthang Valley and Tsomgo Lake, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Himalayas.
Best Time: April to June, October to December
As you plan your travels in May, India presents a wealth of destinations that promise unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. The pleasant weather in the hill stations, the lively festivals, and the breathtaking natural beauty make this month an ideal time to explore. Whether you choose to wander through the historic streets of ancient cities or bask in the tranquility of nature, May offers the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. Embrace the spirit of exploration, and discover the myriad wonders that India has to offer during this vibrant month.