Beat the Heat with These Cool Destinations
May in India can be scorching, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors! Whether you’re looking for hill stations, serene beaches, or lush green valleys, India offers plenty of amazing destinations to explore in May. Here’s a list of the best places to visit in May in India to escape the summer heat and enjoy a refreshing vacation.
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Shimla is the perfect summer escape with its colonial charm, pine-scented air, and panoramic mountain views. Stroll along Mall Road, take a toy train ride, or visit nearby Kufri for a snowy touch. The town’s cool climate and scenic beauty make it a favorite for families and honeymooners seeking both relaxation and soft adventure.
Why Visit?
- Pleasant weather (15°C to 28°C)
- Scenic views of the Himalayas
- Colonial architecture and Mall Road
Top Attractions:
- The Ridge
- Jakhoo Temple
- Kufri
Best For:Â Families, honeymooners, adventure lovers
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali offers a perfect blend of thrill and tranquility. With snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and adventure activities like paragliding and river rafting, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley steal the spotlight, while Hadimba Temple adds a spiritual charm. The cool, crisp air makes May the ideal time to explore this mountain haven.
Why Visit?
- Cool climate (10°C to 25°C)
- Adventure activities like trekking & paragliding
- Stunning valleys and waterfalls
Top Attractions:
- Rohtang Pass (if open)
- Solang Valley
- Hadimba Temple
Best For:Â Adventure seekers, nature lovers
 Read Also:- 10 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
3. Munnar, Kerala
Carpeted with emerald tea gardens and veiled in mist, Munnar is a monsoon-kissed wonderland in late May. The rolling hills, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene lakes create a picture-perfect retreat for nature lovers. Ideal for couples and photographers, its soothing climate and scenic charm offer a refreshing break from the summer heat, inviting you to unwind amid Kerala’s timeless greenery.
Why Visit?
- Lush tea plantations
- Mild temperatures (19°C to 30°C)
- Refreshing monsoon showers in late May
Top Attractions:
- Eravikulam National Park
- Tea Museum
- Mattupetty Dam
Best For:Â Couples, solo travelers, photographers
4. Ladakh
Ladakh in May is raw, remote, and magnificently surreal. With high-altitude passes opening up and snow still dusting the mountains, it’s the perfect time for a once-in-a-lifetime road trip. Explore ancient monasteries, marvel at the changing hues of Pangong Lake, and ride camels in Nubra Valley. This Himalayan desert is a dream come true for adventurers and photography buffs alike.
Why Visit?
- Clear skies and perfect road trip weather (5°C to 20°C)
- Breathtaking landscapes
- Buddhist monasteries
Top Attractions:
- Pangong Lake
- Nubra Valley
- Leh Palace
Best For:Â Adventure bikers, photographers
5. Coorg, Karnataka
Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg enchants with its lush coffee estates, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls. Wildlife lovers can spot elephants at Dubare Camp, while scenic viewpoints like Raja’s Seat offer breathtaking sunsets. The cool breeze and earthy aroma of rain-kissed soil make Coorg a refreshing May getaway for families and nature seekers.
Why Visit?
- Coffee plantations & misty hills
- Pleasant weather (15°C to 35°C)
- Waterfalls and wildlife
Top Attractions:
- Abbey Falls
- Raja’s Seat
- Dubare Elephant Camp
Best For:Â Nature lovers, families
Read Also:-Â 20 Best Places to Visit in South India
6. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Escape to the turquoise waters and white sands of the Andaman Islands for a tropical retreat like no other. Perfect weather and calm seas in May make it ideal for water sports, beach picnics, and exploring coral reefs. Discover the history at Cellular Jail, dive at Havelock Island, or simply relax at Radhanagar Beach—India’s very own island paradise.
Why Visit?
- Tropical paradise with pristine beaches
- Ideal for water sports (scuba diving, snorkeling)
- Warm but breezy weather (24°C to 32°C)
Top Attractions:
- Radhanagar Beach
- Cellular Jail
- Havelock Island
Best For:Â Beach lovers, honeymooners
7. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is a timeless hill station with sweeping views of Kanchenjunga, cool mountain air, and charming colonial vibes. Sip world-famous tea amid emerald plantations, ride the vintage toy train, and catch an unforgettable sunrise from Tiger Hill. Its soothing climate and picturesque setting make it a romantic and serene destination to unwind in May.
Why Visit?
- Famous tea gardens
- Cool climate (12°C to 20°C)
- Stunning views of Kanchenjunga
Top Attractions:
- Tiger Hill (sunrise point)
- Batasia Loop
- Darjeeling Toy Train
Best For:Â Tea enthusiasts, romantic getaways
8. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty’s rolling hills, flower-filled gardens, and scenic train rides offer a charming escape from the summer heat. Known for its colonial legacy and lush landscapes, this hill town is a magnet for families and nature lovers. Stroll through botanical gardens, row across Ooty Lake, or ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway for a nostalgic journey through the Blue Mountains.
Why Visit?
- “Queen of Hill Stations”
- Mild temperatures (15°C to 25°C)
- Botanical gardens & boat rides
Top Attractions:
- Ooty Lake
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Doddabetta Peak
Best For:Â Families, nature lovers
9. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is a vibrant fusion of spirituality and adventure nestled on the banks of the Ganges. May brings ideal weather for white-water rafting, yoga sessions, and sunset aartis at Triveni Ghat. Explore the Beatles Ashram or meditate in the Himalayas—Rishikesh offers a soulful experience for thrill-seekers and peace lovers alike, wrapped in the serenity of nature and tradition.
Why Visit?
- Spiritual & adventure hub
- River rafting & yoga retreats
- Pleasant weather (20°C to 35°C)
Top Attractions:
- Laxman Jhula
- Triveni Ghat
- Beatles Ashram
Best For:Â Adventure seekers, spiritual travelers
10. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu provides a cool sanctuary from the desert heat. Set around Nakki Lake and surrounded by rocky hills, it’s home to ancient Jain temples, scenic viewpoints, and serene landscapes. Whether it’s boating at sunset or hiking up to Guru Shikhar, Mount Abu offers a breezy, beautiful escape in the heart of the Aravallis.
Why Visit?
- Only hill station in Rajasthan
- Cooler than the desert (20°C to 35°C)
- Stunning Nakki Lake
Top Attractions:
- Dilwara Temples
- Sunset Point
- Guru Shikhar
Best For:Â Couples, solo travelers
Read Also:-Â Best Places to Visit in North India
Final Thoughts
May is a great time to explore India’s hill stations, beaches, and lush landscapes before the monsoon arrives. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these best places to visit in May in India offer something for everyone.