The Most Preferred Destinations To Visit In India During May

May brings peak summer heat across most of India. However, it also marks the holiday season when families plan getaways together. Hill stations are the most preferred destinations to visit in India during May. Beyond these cool retreats, a vast list of tourist places awaits exploration. As a result, you can pick any destination and plan visits over the coming years. This guide covers the best places in India to explore during May.

Kerala

Kerala earns its spot on this list of the most preferred destinations to visit in India during May for several reasons. First, the weather remains ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Days stay moderately warm while nights bring cooling relief. Additionally, you can explore beaches, national parks, hill stations, and temples throughout Kerala during this month.

• Places to Kerala: Thekkady, Fort Kochi, Alleppey, Bekal Fort, Periyar National Park, Munnar

For more travel inspiration beyond Kerala, explore popular Indian tourist spots to visit in April to plan your next seasonal trip.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar sits nestled in Maharashtra, conveniently close to Mumbai. British rulers transformed this area into a beloved summer resort. Today, Mahabaleshwar rightfully claims its place among the most preferred destinations to visit in India during May. Moreover, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the Western Ghats and the flowing Krishna River.

• Places to Mahabaleshwar: Pratapgad Fort, Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Elephant’s Head Point

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty clearly ranks as one of the best places to visit in India during May. In fact, the weather stays pleasantly cool even during sweltering summer months. Families can plan memorable holidays in Ooty filled with excitement and relaxation. Ooty showcases incredible natural beauty including lakes, waterfalls, tea gardens, temples, and scenic viewpoints.

• Places to Ooty: Pykara Dam, Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, St. Stephen’s Church

To learn more about this stunning destination, check out how to discover Ooty the incredible hill station in South India for detailed travel tips.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang stands among the finest hill stations you can visit across India. During May, lush greenery surrounds Tawang while mesmerizing landscapes captivate every visitor. Here, travelers experience authentic Buddhist culture and deep spirituality. You must visit Tawang Monastery, which holds the distinction as the largest monastery outside Lhasa in Tibet.

• Places in Tawang: Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, Bumla Pass, Tawang War Memorial, Nuranang Falls

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Mountain lovers should definitely visit the charming hill station of Lansdowne. Located in Uttarakhand, it sees fewer crowds than popular spots like Nainital, Dehradun, and Mussoorie. Nevertheless, Lansdowne offers breathtaking viewpoints where visitors admire the scenic Himalayan Mountains in their full glory.

For more helpful planning, read our guide to Destination Explore Mount Abu.

• Places in Lansdowne: St. Mary’s Church, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Bhulla Lake, Darwan Singh Museum

If you’re planning a Himalayan adventure, discover spectacular and popular places to visit Himachal for comprehensive regional guidance.

Munnar, Kerala

When thinking of Kerala, beaches and backwaters typically come to mind. However, equally beautiful hill stations like Munnar deserve attention. This hill station ranks among Kerala’s best tourist destinations. Situated amid misty mountains and rolling hills, Munnar features stunning waterfalls and serene lakes. Furthermore, wildlife safaris in national parks reveal many rare birds and animals.

• Places in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Tata Tea Museum, Attukad Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park

Nainital, Uttarakhand

Every Indian traveler knows the legendary hill station of Nainital. Located in Uttarakhand near Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital boasts incredible natural beauty and mountain vistas. Naini Lake draws countless visitors, and sunset boating remains the most loved activity. Nearby, Naina Devi Temple attracts devotees and sightseers alike.

• Places in Nainital: Bhimtal Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Nainital Lake, High Altitude Zoo, Snow View Point, Tiffin Top

Suggested Tour: 4 Days Nainital Jim Corbett Tour

For a detailed itinerary covering nearby attractions, learn about a trip to Shimla, Naldehra and Manali for extended Himalayan exploration.

Shillong, Meghalaya

When considering the most preferred destinations to visit in India during May, Shillong naturally comes to mind. Locals lovingly call this hill station the ‘Scotland of the East’. Travelers adore its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, peaceful lakes, dense forests, and vibrant tribal culture. Additionally, Shillong serves as Meghalaya’s capital city, making it a must-visit destination.

For more helpful planning, read our guide to Swim Relax And Dance.

• Places in Shillong: Shillong View Point, Umiam Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

You cannot miss Dharamshala when selecting the best places to visit in India during May. This legendary destination showcases rich Buddhist culture and heritage. The Dalai Lama resides in Dharamshala, which greatly enhances its global appeal. Visitors explore monasteries, temples, and other spiritual sites. Meanwhile, the lakes and waterfalls rank among the region’s most beautiful natural attractions.

• Places in Dharamshala: St. John in the Wilderness Church, Namgyal Monastery, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Tsuglagkhang

Suggested Tour: 7 Days Dalhousie Dharamshala Tour

For more helpful planning, read our guide to Must Visit Famous Monuments.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling’s fame extends across the globe as everyone recognizes its name. This hill station ranks among India’s most favorite honeymoon destinations. The Darjeeling Toy Train represents an engineering marvel and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Yet the most thrilling sight remains the view of Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill. Visitors use telescopes at Tiger Hill to witness Kanchenjunga and magical sunrise views.

• Places in Darjeeling: Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Peace Pagoda, Observatory Hill, Rock Garden, Darjeeling Ropeway

Couples seeking romance should explore a romantic getaway to Darjeeling for unforgettable experiences and intimate moments.

For more helpful planning, read our guide to See Fine Art Akshardham.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

No hill station enjoys the fame that Shimla commands in Himachal Pradesh. This lovely destination remains every honeymooner’s favorite retreat. During May, Shimla’s weather stays pleasant and refreshingly cool. Visitors can spend 2-3 days exploring Shimla and nearby places like Mashobra, Chail, and Kufri. Mountains and breathtaking landscapes create unforgettable memories.

• Places in Shimla: Viceregal Lodge, Jakhoo Hanuman Temple, Christ Church, The Ridge, Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri Fun World

Suggested Tour: Shimla Manali Tour Package

For more helpful planning, read our guide to Places Indian Golden Triangle.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali ranks among the topmost hill stations in India for memorable vacations. Honeymooners and families choose Manali as their top favorite destination. Spectacular Himalayan views surround this stunning location. Valleys, alpine grasslands, waterfalls, high-altitude passes, temples, and wildlife make Manali incredibly appealing to all tourists.

• Places in Manali: Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Naggar Castle, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley

While this article focuses on hill stations across India, travelers seeking heritage experiences might also consider exploring Rajasthan. Although it’s not ideal for May due to intense heat, planning ahead for cooler months ensures you experience royal palaces and desert landscapes. Explore various Rajasthan tour packages to discover this culturally rich state during the best season.