Singapore in May is moderately hot with slight changes of rainfall. May is considered to be a dry month in Singapore and there is no difference in temperature and rainfall as compared to March and April. The month of May experiences the smoke and haze that drifts to Singapore from the clearing fires burnt in Sumatra. This results in the occasional throat and eye irritation, apart from the heat and humidity. However, Vesak Day, a very important Buddhist festival, is observed in this month, granting a glimpse into Singapore's Buddhist community and culture. Make sure to carry sunscreen, sunglasses and hats if visiting Singapore in May.
Average Daily Temperature: 25 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius Highest Temperature in May: 31 degrees Celcius (there's a slight chance of pre-monsoon showers in may) Rainfall: 171 mm
Places to Visit in Singapore in May
Though May in Singapore will be hot and humid because of the equatorial weather during this time, there are plenty of indoor parks and water-based attractions that you can visit to get some relief from the scorching heat, yet make the most of your visit at the same time.
A sunny day is a perfect time to visit the Singapore Zoo, which is no doubt the single most popular attraction in the entire city. The zoo features eleven zones, all of which will help you explore distinct wildlife habitats; including birds, reptiles and even kangaroos! Entry to the zoo is permitted even during the animal feeding time, which only adds to the experience of enjoying the natural wildlife and its beauty. All in all, the zoo is a fantastic destination, especially for family outings; and kids have a blast at the zoo feeding animals, riding a pony, petting goats and enjoying in the watery playground.
Gardens by the Bay look resplendent lit up at night (Source)
Located in the heart of Singapore, the Gardens by the Bay are an excellent place for nature lovers to visit to beat the scorching May heat. Comprising of three huge distinct areas spread over a total area of 101 hectares, the garden is an oasis of greenery comprising of Supertrees, a Flower Dome, a Cloud Forest, and heritage gardens; other than several restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. The gardens are home to over 200 species of flowers, orchids, ferns, climbers, and bromeliads; and also boast of being home to a 35-meter tall mountain covered in tropical vegetation, as well as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
A lot of people prefer to visit the Universal Studios between the months of April and June, to better explore this first and only Universal Studios theme park in all of Asia. The park is divided into seven themed zones, and 28 thrilling rides await to rekindle the child within you as you set out to experience an adrenaline rush on rides like the Battlestar Galactica: Human vs. Cylon and Transformers The Ride; and meet beloved characters like Po the Panda and the Minions. The river raft ride through the Jurassic Park would be particularly fun during the month, so make sure that you don't miss that out.
Bird's eye view of Adventure Cove Waterpark (Source)
If visiting Singapore in May, you should be looking forward to visiting the Adventure Cove Water Park with great curiosity and excitement. High-speed water slides, swimming, snorkeling and a lot of other fun activities await you as you head over this wonderful water park, which is also home to Riptide Ride, Southeast Asia’s first hydro-magnetic coaster, and the rainbow reef, where 20,000 colourful tropical fish and sharks live in their natural surroundings, ready to greet you and swim along in the tranquil waters.
Located at a height of 57 storeys from the heart of the Marina Bay Area, the SandsSky Park Observation Deck area offers panoramic views of the Marina Bay as well as the cityscape of Singapore. Their rooftop infinity pool is truly one of its kind, and so is the impressive Supertree Grove. Once you are done taking in the spectacular views, you can head to the Event Plaza to catch a screening of Spectra, which is the free outdoor light and water show that takes place every night on the Waterfront Promenade; and then end your day with a fine dining dinner experience at some of the best restaurants and bars in the entire Bay area.
Things to Do and Festivals to Celebrate in Singapore in May
Vesak Day in Singapore (Source)Vesak Day commemorates the birth and enlightenment of Buddha which is followed by his final nirvana. The Buddhist temples and monasteries are beautifully decorated with lights and flags. The shrines are adorned with fruits, flowers and other offerings. The celebrations though are closed hall but are open to the public as well. Fair of vegetarian food, singing hymns, and public talks are a few highlights of the same. The festival observes an act of generosity also known as 'dana' carried out by several Buddhist organisations and temples. The festival brings peace to your soul. It is quiet yet one of the most mesmerising festivals in Singapore.
Artists performing during the International Arts Festival (Source)Started by National Arts Council in 1977 as a local arts festival, to collect local arts from diversified communities in Singapore, the festival reached International heights in 1999 when Festival of Arts and Festival of Asian Performing Arts collaborated with each other to form an Annual International event. It is a great place to meet people with artistic instinct. You get to be around talented minds while you enjoy some bites and sips. The festival is a two-week-long exhibition which starts in May and ends by June. Several Lectures, Group Discussions, Theatre acts and Screening, are a few highlights of this buzzing league.
3. Hallyu Pop Festival
Stage performance during Hallyu Pop Festival (Source)
With the K-pop industry growing like wildfire, this could be the only chance for you to catch all your favourite k-pop icons in one place. The Hallyu Pop Festival happens on May 25th and 26th at the Singapore indoor stadium in Kallang. Names you can expect are Super Junior, Monsta X, Nu’est and Winner. Apart from music, you can treat yourself to South Korean beauty products and not forget, their iconic cuisine.
4. AIA Glow Festival
The AIA Glow Festival, held in Singapore in May each year, is an experience in itself, which allows guests to unwind, rejuvenate and recharge themselves by bringing together some amazing food, music, and community from all across Singapore. The activities are designed in such a way that nourishing and energizing the body and soul are targeted, and marathons, yoga sessions, etc. are planned from early on in the morning. As the sun sets, well-known bands and artists take over to captivate the audience with an out of the world music session.
Though Singapore is considered to be a shopping paradise all year round, shopping in Singapore during the Great Singapore Sale is no doubt experience in itself, when you get major advantages such as 70% discounts and extended shopping hours. The sale takes place across the island for eight weeks and usually takes place in the summer months of May, June and July. This is a great time to capitalize on the promotional offers, and make some big savings; so if you happen to be in Singapore in May, you absolutely have to take out a day to enjoy shopping here! However, make sure that you check out the exact dates for the sale before making a plan since they tend to shift every year.
6. Celebrate Mother’s Day with Exclusive Menus
Though not a public holiday, Mother’s Day is nevertheless celebrated with great pomp in Singapore, on the second Sunday of every May. People mark the occasion by gifting flowers and other tokens of appreciation to their mothers, and many restaurants across the island offer special menus and well as discounts for brunch, lunch, and dinner to mark the day and celebrations.
Tips for Visiting Singapore in May
Make sure that you pack plenty of sunscreen and comfortable clothing with you. It is also advisable to keep your shades handy at all times. If you plan to stay out for long hours, carrying an antiperspirant is also a must, since the hot and humid weather conditions are definitely going to make you sweat a lot!
Even though it is surely not monsoon time, rains are common in Singapore, so it would be helpful to carry an umbrella along.
Reach all attractions at least 30 minutes early. Since May tends to be a busy period, waiting time can be longer if you don’t reach well in advance.
Always carry a water bottle along with you at all times to avoid the risk of dehydration.
Now that you know all about Singapore's weather in May, why don't you visit the place and make some great memories? Also, remember to keep a tap on the then prevailing weather conditions to avoid any havoc.
~This article is written by Nidhi Khurana and Muskan Ahuja~
