18 Coolest Places to Visit in May in India

India’s May season is all about experiencing the scorching heat and summers. To beat deadly heat, most people look for the coolest places to visit in May in India. If you are also looking for the same, then India is truly blessed to meet your travel desires. Some of the fantastic and perfect escapes in the country are Spiti, located in the Northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh (6°/ -7° High/Low), Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh (15°C/ 4°C  High/Low), Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya (24°/ 16°  High/Low), Mcleodganj in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, (26°/ 14° High/Low ) Manali, Lansdowne, Mahabaleshwar, and lots more destinations. These destinations not only awestruck vacationers with their natural loveliness but somehow captivate vacationers for several adventurous activities as well.

Each of these destinations is fantastic and offers immense fun and happiness to visitors. The blessed beauty and lovely weather conditions of these attractions are awesome, and they compel visitors to delve into diverse experiences of the place and enjoy the summer vacation to the fullest. These cool places to visit in India in summer offer numerous things to experience, including sightseeing, an extensive range of activities, authentic state foods, shopping experiences, etc.

Doesn’t it sound great to you? Well, a visit to these cool places in summer will certainly be like a savior for vacationers, so one must plan to visit the most preferred destination of your choice to enjoy the summer season along with friends and family. While exploring these attractions, vacationers will also get the opportunity to indulge in diverse cultures, traditions, languages, beliefs, etc. The blend of all these experiences will not only add more fun to the journey but certainly compel visitors to a remarkable experience. Some of the best places to visit in India this summer are listed below. Have a look at them and enjoy them to the fullest.

1. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh:

Settled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Mcleodganj is one of the captivating attractions in Himachal Pradesh and is known as one of the best tourist attractions in the state. Right from the undeniable blessed beauty to an extensive range of adventure experiences, Mcleodganj offers two different experiences together for vacationers, including sightseeing and lovely sports activities. Therefore, it eventually turned into one of the cool places to visit in India in May. The experience of sightseeing and diverse activities will make the tour wonderful for visitors, so one must plan for it.

Best Places to visit in Mcleodganj – Tibetan Museum, Triund, Dal Lake, Dhauladhar Ranges, Bhagsunath Temple & Waterfall, Namgyal Monastery, Dharamkot, Minkiani Pass, Naddi View Point, Kangra Fort, Indrahar Pass, The Dalai Lama’s Temple and many more.

Activities in Mcleodganj – Visitors can visit Mcleodganj and experience several thrilling activities to make the day remarkable by experiencingTriund Camping, Thatharana Trek, Kareri River Trek, and Triund Trek.

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh:

Tawang is one of the most popular towns and monasteries in the world. It attracts vacationers for its amazing beauty and Buddhist architecture. The vibe of this place is different and unique for vacationers across the globe. A large number of Buddhist temples in the charming hill town are well-known for drawing a large number of tourists each year. The Tawang viewing locations are endless, ranging from the captivating Gudpi Mountains to the ethereal Tawang Valley and Madhuri Lake.  It is only possible to leave this location by trekking the breathtaking Gorichen Peak, which provides bizarre urban views. So, make sure to plan to visit here in May.

Best Places to visit in Tawang – Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake), Dolma Lhakang Lumla Tawang, Chagzam Bridge, Gorsam Chorten Zemithang, Tawang monastery, Nuranang Waterfall Jang, War Memorial and many more.

Activities in Tawang – If you want to savor the taste of adventure in Tawang, then try some amazing activities likeparagliding, river rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, and trekking.

3. Ladakh:

Nestled between the Karakoram and the Himalayas in northern India lies the high-altitude desert region of Ladakh. The region’s breathtaking natural environment and wide range of cultural attractions lure tourists. One of the best chilly locations in India in May is Ladakh. One of the top destinations for couples traveling to India in May has to be a place with breathtaking vistas. Because Ladakh was used for the filming of several well-known films, it has long been a favorite destination for travelers. Ladakh is home to picture-perfect gompas and whitewashed stupas that make for some Instagram-worthy photos. It is also considered one of the coolest places to visit in India in May.

Best Places to Visit in Ladakh – Some amazing attractions of the city that you can explore here are Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Kargil, Khardung La Pass, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill and many more.

Activities in Ladakh – Chadar trek, Stok Kangri Trek, Campfire, ice hockey, and rock climbing are some of the best and most fun-loving activities that vacationers must enjoy on their trip to India.  

4. Gangtok, Sikkim:

One location that has the power to astound visitors in May with both its beauty and tranquility is Gangtok. You should schedule your trip for the summer, as Gangtok is one of the top family-friendly destinations in India. There are several tourist attractions in the area, including serene lakes, dzongas, and historic temples. Furthermore, the summertime weather is ideal for exploring and taking advantage of all that the beautiful city has to offer. Apart from the lovely sightseeing, visitors can indulge in experiencing diverse cultural diversity that influences Tibet and Nepal. While exploring the popular attractions of Gangtok, you will come to know a lot about the local cuisine, festivals, and arts. The blend of all these experiences will eventually make your tour memorable.

Best Places to Visit in Gangtok – Tashi View Point, Hanuman Tok, Enchey Monastery, and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology are some of the best places to visit and experience the city’s loveliness.

Activities in Gangtok: The visit to Gangtok won’t be complete if you don’t enjoy its sightseeing, river rafting, cycling, Yak safari, mountain biking, and cable car ride. So, make sure to enjoy it to the fullest.

5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:

Famous for being a honeymooner’s paradise, Shimla is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s one of the best places to travel in the summer and the ideal place to escape the sweltering heat of the cities. Whether you want to visit the well-known Tibetan market or Christ Church, this city has it all. Right from the hills, churches, temples, toy trains, festivals, and adventure activities, there is everything that most vacationers look for. In May, Shimla turns out to be heaven, so visitors must go at least once for an awesome experience. Lastly, the destination also has well-liked bakeries or indulges in the delicacies or local fare, and the choice is yours. So, don’t hesitate to book your trip now.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla – On your visit to Shimla in May, don’t forget to explore Christ Church, Tibetan Market, Mall Road, Shri Hanuman Mandir Jakhoo, Viceregal Lodge and many more.

Activities in Shimla: Some of the breathtaking activities in Shimla that you must explore and indulge in are sightseeing, riding on a toy train, going shopping, trying river rafting, and staying in a cottage.

6. Manali, Himachal Pradesh:

The stunning hill resort of Manali is located in the Kullu region of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. With its gorgeous scenery of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and roaring rivers, Manali draws both nature enthusiasts and adventurers. As Manali is known to be one of the best places to visit in India this summer therefore, don’t forget to indulge in nature’s blissful offerings like surrounding hills and meadows, apple orchards and other fruit plantations, local festivals and cultural events and adventure activities as well. It is truly amazing, and vacationers must enjoy every single day in between such bliss. In summer it turns very crowded so get your hotel booking done in advance.

Best Places to Visit in Manali – On your visit to Manali, don’t miss visiting its major attractions like Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Manu Temple, the Vashisht Hot Springs, and many more.

Activities in Manali: Manali, being the land of natural charm and loveliness, also engages you in diverse adventure activities, includingSkiing, Paragliding, Trekking, and River Rafting.

7. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh:

Spiti, which means “The Middle Land” in direct translation, is one of the best destinations in India to see in May and ought to be at the top of your list of must-see locations in India. In May, Spiti also experiences freezing temperatures, so if you can bear the same, then enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes of barren mountains, ancient monasteries, and picturesque villages. Also, indulge in several cultural events and enjoy the emergence of alpine flowers and the reawakening of the local flora. You can also visit one of the oldest monasteries in the world; rough but passable roads and expansive scenery may all be found in Spiti, an area rich in natural beauty. Undoubtedly, Spiti Valley is among the cold places to visit in India in May.

Best Places to visit in Spiti – In Spiti, you will be able to experience a lovely glimpse of old monasteries and gompas such as Dhankar Gompa, Kye Monastery, Pin Valley National Park, Chandratal Lake, Lahaul Valley, Komick Village, Trilokinath Temple and many more. So, don’t miss visiting them.

Activities in Spiti: Take a tour of the Spiti Valley, go bicycling and camping in Chandratal, hike to Hampta Pass, go river rafting in Spiti and Pin, take in the stunning scenery of the Pin Valley National Park, and walk to Dhankar Lake.

8. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand:

Among the cool places to go in May, Landsdowne is a hidden treasure in the state of Uttarakhand and the most bizarre hill station in North India. It is also known as one of the weekend getaways for Delhities. A visit to Lansdowne, a serene haven of elegance and tranquility, is certain to leave a lasting impression. Even being small in size, Lansdowne always attracts vacationers for its endless attractions like its serene atmosphere, lush landscapes, and colonial architecture. Here, visitors can also enjoy scenic drives along with their life partners and get the opportunity to indulge in adventure activities. While exploring the place, you will notice a little bit of the influence of the Garwal region, so plan a visit to this well-known destination for summer tourism in India.

Best Places to Visit in Lansdowne – Some amazing attractions of the place that you must explore are Tip n Top, St. Mary’s Church, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, War Memorial, Darwan Singh Museum, Bhulla Lake, and many more.

Activities in Lansdowne: Take a nature stroll around Lansdowne, go camping, go boating at Bhulla Lake, trek to Snow Viewpoint, hike to Tip n Top, and explore the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve.

9. Shillong, Meghalaya:

One of the most beautiful hill stations in the area, Shillong, often known as the “Scotland of the East,” boasts picturesque views of lakes, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. Northeastern India’s main urban region revolves around Shillong, a well-liked tourism destination. If you are a nature lover, then visiting Shillong in May can be one of the best travel decisions of yours. On your visit to this lovely place, you will get the opportunity to enjoy the Northeastern culture and tradition very closely by indulging in their local fests or events. The ultimate experience will leave you speechless, so go for it. The place is also popular for having research facilities concentrating on the development of fruit, silk, and dairy products and is a significant hub for trading in agricultural goods. It has the ideal balance of modern essence and vintage charm.

Best Places to visit in Shillong – Enjoy the lovely attractions of Shillong and add more fun to the journey by exploring Elephant Falls, Mawlynnong, Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak, Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Mawsynram and many more.

Activities in Shillong: Discover the Living Root Bridge at Mawlynnong, hike the David Scott Trail, discover the Elephant Falls, go caving at Krem Mawmluh, and engage in rock climbing, rappelling, and zip line at Barapani.

10. Mount Abu, Rajasthan:

Mount Abu, known for being Rajasthan’s lone hill station, is a charming city that appeals to anybody looking to escape the heat while seeing the kingdom of kings. Visit the renowned Dilwara temples or the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary to see a variety of animal species; these locations will make your vacation intriguing. It is one of the unique hill stations where you can experience the royal charm of the place at hotels or in the entire city. The vibe of royalty at every turn is super awesome, so one must visit here and also find the opportunity to enjoy the cultural events that take place in May month. Remember to include this wonderful location on your list of must-see locations in India for summer travel plans.

Best Places to Visit in Mount Abu – On your visit to Mount Abu, indulge in sightseeing, Guru Shikhar, Jain temples, and many more.

Activities in Mount Abu: Take a boat ride, give hiking a go, explore the outdoors, camp, and see animals. All these activities in Mount Abu will bring amazing experiences to visitors, so just enjoy it to the fullest.

11. Auli, Uttarakhand:

There is a stunning ski resort called Auli in Uttarakhand. The Himalayas, with their snow-capped peaks and lush valleys all around, are breathtakingly visible from the lovely mountain resort of Auli. Those who always have an interest in experiencing winter sports like skiing or snowboarding can plan to experience it to the fullest at Auli in May Season. Apart from the sports activities, Auli also offers a lot of attractive things to nature lovers, like the beautiful carpet of flowers, an artificial lake, etc. So, Auli has something to offer to every age group. As it becomes crowded in the month, it is better to get the bookings done in advance to avoid the last-minute hassles of hotel booking.

Best Places to Visit in Auli – Some of the best attractions in Auli that visitors must explore are Auli Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund, the city of Joshimath, and many more. These attractions will add more fun to the journey.

Activities in Auli: If you want to try some amazingwinter sports like skiing or snowboarding and take a ride on a cable car, then head towards Auli, which offers amazing things.

12. Nainital, Uttarakhand:

In Uttarakhand, at the base of the Kumaon mountain range, is the quaint hill town of Nainital. It is the most popular hill station in North India, conveniently located near both Delhi and Dehradun. Nainital is an ideal weekend escape from Delhi and its environs. Because of its year-round good weather, Nainital is a well-liked hill station for families, couples, and even lone travelers. The charm of this hill station is endless; the tranquility, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather in the May season attract thousands of vacationers every year. It is always known as one of the best cold places to visit in May in India. As Nainital often hosts boat pageants where beautifully decorated boats participate, some hotels or cultural centers also host cultural programs, folk dances, or musical performances for tourists, so attend them if it is being hosted during your travel dates. It is undoubtedly a lovely experience for visitors.

Best Places to Visit in Nainital – The major attractions of Nainital include Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow Viewpoint, Zoo, and many more.

Activities in Nainital: If you want to add some adventure to your life, then try experiencing the very popular trekking to Tiffin Top, boating in Naini Lake, and shopping on Mall Road.

13. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh:

Kalpa comes in last on the list of coldest locations in India. It is the main settlement in Kinnaur, beloved for its beautiful monasteries and temples. It is well known for having orchards that provide apples for the entire nation. The picturesque Kinnaur-Kailash range, which juts out across the Sutlej River, offers a tranquil respite. To experience the enchantment and mystique of the dawn, roam around this paradisiacal playground. The scene is unique because of the mountains’ shifting pink and golden tones. It is one of the perfect places to experience both natural beauty and adventure opportunities. So, visitors of different interest areas won’t be disappointed here. Now, plan to visit Kalpa in May month and enjoy the vacation to the fullest.

Best Places to Visit in Kalpa – Some of the best attractions of Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh, include Suicide Point, Narayan-Nagini Temple, Hu-Ba-Lan-Kar Monastry, Sapni Fort, Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, and many more.

Activities in Kalpa – Enjoy experiencing the breathtaking Chakka trek, visit the sacred Kinnaur Kailash, and explore the hills & local sightseeing. It offers a lovely experience to visitors.

14. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand:

The Uttarakhand district of Pithoragarh has Munsiyari, one of the coldest spots in the country and sometimes referred to as “Little Kashmir.” It is well known for its diverse and challenging trails as well as its expansive views of the Himalayas. Nanda Kot, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli, together with the year-round good weather, are the main attractions of this chilly hamlet. Apart from the natural loveliness, Munsiyari in Uttarakhand is also known as the heaven for adventure activities like trekking and skiing. Though it is less popular for adventure sports, if you want to stay away from crowded places, then Munsiyari is the best place for you. So, plan your vacation at this cool place to visit in India in May in Munsiyari and have a wonderful experience with your loved ones.

Best Places to Visit in Munsiyari – On your visit to this amazing place, make sure to visit amazing attractions like Birthi Falls, Panchachuli Peaks, Balanti Potato Farm, Madkot Village, Darkot Village, Betulidhar, Maheshwari Kund, Khaliya Top and many more.

Activities in Munsiyari – Some of the best activities that you must experience in Munsiyari arewaterfalls, nature & parks, historic walking trails, glacier treks, and visit shepherd villages like Darkot and Betulidhar.

15. Darjeeling, West Bengal:

The West Bengal hill station of Darjeeling is well-known for its tea plantations, colonial architecture, and scenic surroundings. Due to its elevation of 2,050 meters above sea level, the town enjoys year-round moderate weather.  In the May season, Darjeeling remains a little warm during the day but breezy in the morning and evening. It is one of the best times when vacationers can explore the blessed beauty of the hill and also try their hands on diverse adventure activities like Trekking, White Water Rafting, Mountain Biking, Jeep Safari, and Paragliding. While exploring the place and indulging in adventure activities, you will come to know that the world’s best teas are produced in the town’s tea plantations, and the town itself is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. So, visiting such a place is an amazing experience that one must have.

Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling – Darjeeling – is one of the best places to visit in India this summer, so visit there and explore the fantastic attractions like the Peace Pagoda, the Ghoom Monastery, Kanchenjunga Mountain, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tiger Hill and many more.

Activities in Darjeeling – If adventure is your cup of tea, then try your hands on enjoying the River Rafting, Trek The Peak, Take A Joy Ride on the Toy Train, and visit local markets.

16. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra:

Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra attracts a lot of summer tourists, especially in May, because of its well-known strawberry fields, lush forests, and breathtaking scenery. It’s the perfect spot to spend the summer, with typical lows of around 10 degrees Celsius and highs of about 25 degrees. Mahabaleshwar’s peak season is from March to June.  A visit to Mahabaleshwar in May will give you a break from the monotonous life. The place offers a lovely blend of both nature and adventure activities, so visitors with diverse interests can enjoy the tour of Mahabaleshwar. A few of the tourist spots include Elephanta Island, Venna Lake, and Pratapgad Fort. You will be amazed by visiting the beautiful waterfalls and caves and enjoying the fresh strawberries. Doesn’t that sound great to you? Well, if yes, then don’t just delay your vacation plan; just go along with your family and have a great time. After all, it is one of the coolest places in India in May.

Best Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar – Enjoy exploring the amazing Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mahabaleshwar Hill Station, Elephant’s Head Point, Krishnabai Temple, Arthur’s Seat, and many more.

Activities in Mahabaleshwar – If you want to add some more fun to your journey, thenenjoy a ride in Shikara in Venna Lake, Enjoy the Thrill Of Jungle Trekking, explore Mapro Garden, and visit local markets.

17. Coorg, Karnataka:

Coorg is one of the coldest hill stations in South India, situated at an elevation of 1525 meters in the Western Ghats in Karnataka. In May, Coorg experiences moderately hot weather. Still, it is undoubtedly enjoyable, so several visitors come from a long way to enjoy the visit to Coorg and indulge in exploring the Scotland of the South – Coorg. Visitors on their Coorg trip will get the opportunity to experience the greatest rainfall and an ideal blend of elegance and tranquility. Coorg is a haven for nature lovers, boasting verdant woods, foggy hills, winding alleys, bustling plantations of tea and coffee, cool mornings, and breathtaking scenery. So, you must explore all the amazing attractions of the place by enjoying a sip of coffee. If you are a devotee, you will also get the opportunity to visit the popular temples here.

Best Places to Visit in Coorg – Coorg is known as a cool place to visit in India in summer, so plan to visit Coorg and enjoy exploring the Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation, Mandalpatti Peak, Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Chiklihole Reservoir and many more. The experience will leave a lasting impression on you.

Activities in Coorg – After exploring the major attractions of the city, you will also get the chance to enjoy rock climbing, trekking, hiking, exploring tea & coffee plantation gardens, and taking a breathtaking view of hilly landscapes.

18. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu:

Kodaikanal, which is renowned for being the coldest region in South India, is endowed with an abundance of flora, stunning valleys, magnificent lakes, tumbling waterfalls, and grassy hills.  Kodaikanal, often known as the princess of the Indian hill station, is 2,000 meters above sea level and is surrounded by evergreen trees. It is unquestionably South India’s greatest and coolest hill station for romantic weather, mouthwatering cuisine, and stunning vistas. If you want to experience something unique, then visit Kodaikanal in May and enjoy the bliss of nature at its best. Here, you can explore the beautiful lake, nature walk, valley viewpoint, and night safari. If you visit at the right time for festivities, then participate in the summer festival, i.e., Kodai Vizha, to add more fun to the journey. You will come to know the rich culture, tradition, history, and beliefs of the local people. Here, the trip doesn’t get to end as some adventure experiences are also left, so try your hands on diverse activities and have a great time.

Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal – Some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal are Coakers Walk, Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Poombarai Village View, Pine Forest, Pillar Rocks, Silver Cascade Falls and many more.

Activities in Kodaikanal – Try your hands on diverse adventure activities like Cycling, Photography, Nature Walks, Camping In Dense Forests, Hiking, Giant Mountain Trek, and exploring Valley Farming.