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10 Best Places To Visit In May In India In 2026 For Summer Vacation: From Abu To Munnar!

By Nikita Karia on Apr 29, 2024
Category: Places To Visit, Things To Do | Country:  Asia India

Summary: ( Last Updated: March 2026)
Looking to escape the scorching summer heat? This guide to the Best Places to Visit in May in India highlights top destinations across hill stations, wildlife parks, and serene retreats. From cool mountain escapes to peaceful spiritual spots, discover where to travel in India in May for a refreshing and memorable vacation.

May is a legit holiday month across India, with a summer break for most educational institutions. And if you are not taking a vacation in May, you probably work too much. After all, a little downtime is imperative for all of us! India’s summers can be stark, especially in May. You may not wish to step out, and rather be inside your AC rooms.

Do you know what is better, though? Planning about getting away from the stifling heat. Now the question arises – where to travel in India in May with such intense heat? We are all aware of how diverse India is, known for its varied topography and weather patterns. India offers a wide variety of destinations – so you can select a new one each year. Reserve a hotel, pick your preferred mode of transportation, and depart for any of these top 10 Best places to visit in May in India.

Places to Visit In May in India

The northern, northeastern, and southern parts of India have the coolest and most soothing places to visit in May, but there are some hidden gems in central India as well. From hill stations to beach destinations, there is a plethora of options to choose from. To reduce your efforts, present a compiled list of the best places to visit in India in May.

Quick Comparison of the Best Places to Visit in May in India

Destination Temperature (May) Ideal For Trip Duration Crowd Level
Mount Abu 23–30°C Family, Couples 2–3 Days Medium
Saputara 20–28°C Weekend trips 2 Days Low
Dehradun 17–30°C Nature, Family 2–3 Days Medium
Chamba 15–28°C Offbeat travelers 3–4 Days Low
Darjeeling 11–20°C Couples, Scenic lovers 4–5 Days High
Bikaner 30–42°C Culture lovers 2–3 Days Low
Jim Corbett 25–35°C Wildlife lovers 2–3 Days High
Munnar 15–25°C Honeymoon, Nature 3–4 Days Medium
Madikeri (Coorg) 18–28°C Relaxation 3 Days Medium
Bodh Gaya 28–40°C Spiritual यात्रा 2 Days Low

1. Mt. Abu – Rajasthan

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Are you trying to escape from the scorching May heat? Take a trip to Mount Abu, a surreal hill station in Rajasthan. This hill station is the only one in the desert state and is located on the Aravalli Mountain Range. It is well known for its Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and is one of the best places in India to visit in May.

This place is considered a paradise in the desert. It is dotted with historic structures from the glorious past, including forts, palaces, and grand temples. If you enjoy both history and nature, Mount Abu will quickly win your heart. To travel to this hill station, opt for our Abu with Udaipur tour package and have a colorful holiday.

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Why Visit in May?

  • Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan, offering relief from extreme summer heat with pleasant weather.

Who Should Visit?

  • Families
  • Couples
  • Short weekend travelers

How to reach Mt. Abu?

  • Abu Road is the nearest railway station, only 28 kilometers from the city center. It is well connected by rail routes with major Indian cities. Udaipur airport is the apt one, which is 185 kilometers away.
  • However, Ahmedabad has better accessibility with daily flights to other regions of the nation and is only 221 kilometers from Mount Abu.

Places to Visit in Mt. Abu

  • Dilwara Temples
  • Toad Rock
  • Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Guru Shikhar
  • Nakki Lake

Things to do in Mt. Abu

  • Boat ride on Nakki Lake
  • Go to see the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Watch the panoramic view from the Toad Rock
  • Take in the scenery at Sunset Point.
  • Admire the Magnificent Jain Temples

Ideal Itinerary (2–3 Days)

  • Day 1: Nakki Lake + Local market
  • Day 2: Dilwara Temples + Sunset Point
  • Day 3: Guru Shikhar

Estimated Cost

  • ₹8,000 – ₹18,000 per person

Travel Tips

  • Book hotels early (peak season)
  • Carry light cotton clothes

Also Read: A Luxurious Haven: 5 Mount Abu Villas for Your Dream Vacation in 2025!

Also Read: Rajasthan’s Top 10 Luxury Resorts

2. Saputara – Gujarat

Image Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/

There is only one hill station in Gujarat named Saputara. The town is located in the Sahyadri Mountains of Gujarat, close to the Maharashtra state border. The hill station of Saputara is a lovely sight, with its green rolling hills, velvety meadows, and a large and beautiful lake. Saputara has a cool climate all year long, with abundant gardens, parks, and sanctuaries.

You will frequently be reminded of the quaint Swiss villages. Then you will be whisked away to an exotic rural microcosm of India, rich in ethnic art, local cuisine, and native tribes. Saputara is still unspoiled and barely commercialized, is a great place to travel to in India in May.

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Why Visit in May?

  • A less crowded hill station in Gujarat with cool climate and greenery.

Who Should Visit?

  • Budget travelers
  • Families
  • Gujarat-based weekend tourists

How to reach Saputara?

  • Surat International Airport, which is 3.5 hours away, is the nearest airport to Saputara. From Surat, you can drive down to Saputara. Alternatively, you can drive from Nashik in Maharashtra and Baroda in Gujarat.
  • The closest train station with service from major Indian cities is Bilimora Junction.

Places to Visit in Saputara

  • Governor’s Hill
  • Gajabhishek Jain Tirth
  • Saputara Lake
  • Pushpak Ropeway
  • Sunrise Point

Things to do in Saputara

  • Enjoy views from Sunset Point
  • Explore wildlife at Purna Sanctuary
  • Visit the Saputara Tribal Museum
  • Find out the honey-making process at Honey Bees Center
  • Boat ride on Saputara Lake

Ideal Itinerary (2 Days)

  • Day 1: Lake + Ropeway
  • Day 2: Gardens + viewpoints

Estimated Cost

  • ₹5,000 – ₹12,000

 Travel Tips

  • Great for quick getaways
  • Limited luxury hotels

Also Read: Let’s See What Gujarat Is Famous For!

Also Read: The Statue of Unity – An iconic tribute to the Iron Man of India!

3. Dehradun – Uttarakhand

Image Source: https://www.clubmahindra.com/

Mythology and history cross paths in this stunning and well-known hill station of Dehradun. Making it one of the best places to visit in India in May with family. At the foot of the Himalayas, in the Doon Valley, 240 kilometers from Delhi, Dehradun is surrounded by high mountains and thick Sal forests. At 1400 feet above sea level, Dehradun has a pleasant year-round climate.

As one might expect from a city located in the Himalayan foothills, Dehradun has plenty of waterfalls, caves, and natural springs. One of the famous picnic spots in Dehradun is Robbers Cave.

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Why Visit in May?

  • Pleasant weather and gateway to Mussoorie & hill regions.

Who Should Visit?

  • Families
  • Nature lovers

How to reach Dehradun?

  • Jolly Grant Airport is 24 kilometers from Dehradun city, which is the closest. When you land at the airport, you can quickly and easily book a pre-paid taxi to the city. The railway network links Dehradun to the rest of India through the Dehradun railway station.
  • There are regular rail services to and from Dehradun. The Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express, which departs from the New Delhi train station, is the most well-known of them.

Places to Visit in Dehradun

  • Mindrolling Monastery
  • Tapkeshwar Temple
  • Robbers Cave
  • Tiger View Jungle camp
  • Lacchiwalla

Things to do in Dehradun

  • Seek Adventure at Robber’s Cave
  • Take a Dip in the healing waters of Sahastradhara Falls
  • Paragliding
  • Visit Mindrolling Monastery to Find Peace
  • Go Shopping at Paltan Bazaar and Tibetan Market

Ideal Itinerary (2–3 Days)

  • Day 1: City sightseeing
  • Day 2: Nearby attractions

Estimated Cost

  • ₹10,000 – ₹20,000

Travel Tips

  • Combine with Mussoorie trip

Also Read: Most Picturesque Hill Stations In India Must Visit During Your Summer Break!

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in India: Complete Guide to Top Indian Tourist Destinations and Tourism Cities

4. Chamba – Himachal Pradesh

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Chamba in Himachal Pradesh is dotted with historical and architectural landmarks. Its rich medieval past is preserved in its palaces and temples. Chamba, possibly the most beautiful valley in Himachal, is home to a wide range of wildlife, lakes, meadows, sparkling streams, and dense alpine forest covers.

This picture-postcard town is known for its mesmerizing views of the Dhauladhar, Zanskar, and Pir Panjal ranges. Known for its traditional handicrafts and art, Chamba is also famous for its miniature Pahari paintings. Many treks in the vast Himalayan ranges have it as their starting point. Our Himachal Tour Packages allow you to explore this beautiful town.

Its stunning surroundings and rustic charm; are sure to draw tourists looking for an unusual place to visit.

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Why Visit in May?

  • An offbeat destination with fewer crowds and scenic beauty.

Who Should Visit?

  • Offbeat travelers
  • Peace seekers

How to reach Chamba?

  • The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Dharamsala, which is 185 kilometers away. Gaggal Airport is served by flights from Kullu, Chandigarh, and Delhi. The closest rail station, at a distance of 118 km, is Pathankot.
  • Most Indian cities have regular train service to Pathankot. To get to Chamba from Pathankot, taxis are available. Most of Himachal Pradesh’s neighboring regions are easily accessible by road from Chamba.

Places to Visit in Chamba

  • Hari Raya Temple
  • Chamera Lake
  • Church Of Scotland
  • Bhuri Singh Museum
  • Manimahesh Lake

Things to do in Chamba

  • Boat Ride
  • Trekking
  • Nature Walks
  • Wildlife sightseeing
  • Shopping at local markets

Ideal Itinerary (3–4 Days)

  • Day 1: Arrival + local
  • Day 2: Khajjiar
  • Day 3: Lake visit

Estimated Cost

  • ₹12,000 – ₹22,000

Travel Tips

  • Roads can be winding

Also Read: Explore the Hidden Gems of Himachal Pradesh!

Also Read: Hampta Pass Trek Guide: Route, Itinerary, Best Time, and Difficulty Level!

5. Darjeeling – West Bengal

Image Source : https://www.rakshittravels.com/

The Queen of the Hills and one of the most preferred summer places to visit in May in India, Darjeeling, is a paradise of unmatched beauty and splendor. Your mind and body will be calmed and refreshed just by the sight of emerald green tea bushes, lush forests, and blooming flowers against the backdrop of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga!

The hill town is home to a variety of parks, monasteries, zoos, shopping malls, and other attractions that draw visitors from around the globe. Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station in India, complete with tea gardens, orchids, and a cute toy train that winds through the mountains.

Why Visit in May?

  • Cool weather, tea gardens, and Himalayan views.

Who Should Visit?

  • Couples
  • Nature lovers

How to reach Darjeeling?

  • New Jalpaiguri rail station is the closest. This has easy access to most of India’s major cities. You can also reach Darjeeling from Siliguri on the Toy Train.
  • Bagdodara, a town close to Siliguri, is home to the closest airport. Between Bagodara and Darjeeling, you can commute by local taxis.

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

  • Tea Plantations
  • Japanese Peace Pagoda
  • Batasia Loop
  • Darjeeling Ropeway
  • Tiger Hill
  • Observatory Hill

Things to do in Darjeeling

  • Teesta River Rafting
  • Do not miss the toy train ride
  • Explore the Tea Gardens
  • Shopping on the Mall Road
  • Learn Mountaineering

Ideal Itinerary (4–5 Days)

  • Day 1: Arrival
  • Day 2: Tiger Hill + sightseeing
  • Day 3: Tea gardens
  • Day 4: Local markets

Estimated Cost

  • ₹20,000 – ₹40,000

Travel Tips

  • Book early (high demand)

Also Read: Best Monsoon Getaways in India: Top Destinations for Rain Lovers!

Also Read: Why Gurudongmar Lake Should Be on Your Travel List!

6. Bikaner – Rajasthan

Image Source : https://img.traveltriangle.com/

Bikaner in the Thar Desert is a haven for culture and a traveler’s paradise. The city’s majestic dunes, camels strolling through them, and its historical palaces and forts will enchant you. The vibrant city exudes an elegant bygone era of the Rajputs and boasts old-world charm and lavish Havelis.

As the homeland of some of the most renowned riding camels in the world, Bikaner is famous as a camel country. With our Heritage Rajasthan Tour Packages, you can discover the wonders and sites that Bikaner has to offer.

Why Visit in May?

  • Ideal for cultural exploration (but hot climate).

Who Should Visit?

  • History lovers

How to reach Bikaner?

  • Jodhpur Airport is the nearest airport, located 251 kilometers from Bikaner. It is probably not a good idea to fly to Bikaner because the nearest airport is 4.5 hours away in Jodhpur. Getting here is simple by rail or road.
  • All major Indian cities in Rajasthan are well connected by train to Bikaner. There are two train stations in Bikaner both are equally far from the city—6 km. Roads connect Bikaner to all most Indian cities.

Places to Visit in Bikaner

  • Raisar Dunes
  • Lalgarh Palace
  • Rampuria Haveli
  • Karni Mata Temple
  • Laxmi Niwas palace
  • Gajner Palace and Lake

Things to do in Bikaner

  • Visit the magnificent Junagarh Fort
  • Shopping at Kote Gate
  • Visit the well-known Karni Mata Temple.
  • Experience a camel safari in the Thar Desert.
  • Visit the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary to observe wildlife

Estimated Cost

  • ₹8,000 – ₹15,000

Travel Tips

  • Avoid daytime heat
  • Best for short stay

Also Read: Top 7 Must-Visit Forts in India for History Lovers!

Also Read: The Top Attractions in Jaipur: Palaces, Forts, Bazaars & More!

7. Jim Corbett National Park – Uttarakhand

Image Source : https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/

This is India’s first national park, set in 1936. The breathtaking Jim Corbett National Park can be found close to the Himalayan town of Nainital. The park is well-known for having the highest concentration of tigers in any Indian national park. There are plenty of attractions at Corbett National Park, but one of the most famous is Dhikala.

It is a forest lodge located in Patli Dun Valley with a stunning location and abundant wildlife. It is one of the best places to visit in May in India, as the park remains shut during the monsoons. Include this popular park with our Uttarakhand tour packages.

Why Visit in May?

  • Best time for wildlife sightings.

Who Should Visit?

  • Wildlife lovers
  • Adventure travelers

How to reach Jim Corbett National Park?

Trains and roads provide convenient access to all of India’s major cities from Jim Corbett National Park. It is easy to reach since it is in Ramnagar, 260 kilometers from New Delhi. Corbett National Park is easiest to access by road from Delhi, which takes about 6 hours.

Ramnagar, about 12 km from Corbett, is home to the neighboring railway station. Through New Delhi, it is connected to every region of India by frequent trains. Tourists generally don’t prefer to visit Corbett National Park by air.

Places to Visit in Jim Corbett National Park

  • Corbett Waterfall
  • Dhikala
  • Garjia Temple
  • Sitabani Forest
  • Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary

Things to do in Jim Corbett National Park

  • Jungle Safari
  • River Rafting
  • Rock Climbing
  • Bird Watching
  • Elephant Safari

Ideal Itinerary (2–3 Days)

  • Day 1: Arrival
  • Day 2: Safari

Estimated Cost

  • ₹15,000 – ₹30,000

Travel Tips

  • Book safari in advance

Also Read: Jim Corbett National Park: A Complete Guide to India’s Oldest Tiger Reserve!

Also Read: Best National Parks in India to Visit for Wildlife Sightings

8. Munnar – Kerala

Image Source : https://www.munnar.holiday/

This tranquil hill town in Kerala, also known as the Kashmir of South India, is an excellent retreat for those seeking relief from the scorching heat. Munnar is known for its expansive tea gardens, rare flora and fauna, rocky peaks, and dazzling waterfalls. It is surrounded by lush greenery.

One of the best places to travel in India in May is Munnar, which is located at an elevation of 5026 feet and enjoys a pleasant climate even in the height of summer. Summer season is the best time to visit Munnar.

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Why Visit in May?

  • Cool weather + lush green tea plantations before monsoon.

Who Should Visit?

  • Honeymooners
  • Nature lovers

How to reach Munnar?

  • Munnar does not have an airport of its own. If you want to fly to Munnar, the adjacent airport is Cochin International Airport, which is 110 kms away. From here, you can hire a cab or take one of the Kerala road transport buses to Munnar.
  • The adjoining railway station is Aluva, which is about 100 kilometers away. You can then proceed with your journey by hiring a private taxi or taking local transportation.

Places to Visit in Munnar

  • Eravikulam National Park
  • Photo Point
  • Mattupetty Dam
  • Dream Land Fun and Adventure
  • Tata Tea Museum

Things to do in Munnar

  • Wildlife safari at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Enjoy Adventure activities
  • Shikara Boat Ride on the Kundala Dam Lake
  • Wander through the Tea Gardens
  • Watch Kalaripayattu at Kalari Kshethra

Ideal Itinerary (3–4 Days)

  • Day 1: Arrival
  • Day 2: Sightseeing
  • Day 3: National park

Estimated Cost

  • ₹18,000 – ₹35,000

Travel Tips

  • Expect light pre-monsoon showers

Also Read: Best 7 Days Kerala Itinerary for Families, Couples & Seniors!

Also Read: Here’s the Ultimate Guide to the Best Season and Time to Visit Kerala!

9. Madikeri – Karnataka

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Madikeri, a hill town in Karnataka, is frequently included as part of trips to Coorg. It has extensive coffee plantations, misty hills, and lush forests all of which combine to create an amazing view. Thus it is apt to visit this lush destination with our Coorg City Breaks tour packages by Flamingo Transworld.

Other than being a pleasant summer retreat, Madikeri is also known for its coffee plantations, which makes it a unique place to visit in India. Madikeri, which is well known for its coffee plantations, is also known as Karnataka’s Coffee Capital. It provides a wide range of options for tourist attractions in Madikeri.

It includes stunning palaces and temples, milky waterfalls, cardamom plantations, and coffee gardens.

Why Visit in May?

  • Pleasant weather and coffee plantations.

Who Should Visit?

  • Couples
  • Relaxation seekers

How to reach Madikeri?

  • The nearest airport to Madikeri is Mangalore International Airport – around 140 kms away from the city. The closest railheads are Hassan, Kasaragod, Thalassery, and Kannur, which are all located about 115 km from Madikeri.
  • Tourists can board trains even from the 140 km away cities of Mangalore and Mysore. Regular buses and taxis are available to take you to these locations.

Places to Visit in Madikeri

  • Omkareshwar Temple
  • Madikeri Fort
  • Abbey Falls
  • Raja’s Seat
  • Dubare Elephant Camp

Things to do in Madikeri

  • Camping in Madikeri
  • Jeep safaris
  • Bathe elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
  • Barapole River Rafting
  • Take pictures of Abbey Falls.

Estimated Cost

  • ₹15,000 – ₹30,000

Travel Tips

  • Ideal for slow travel

Also Read: 5 Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In India To Explore With Your Partner!

Also Read: Ultimate Guide to Honeymoon Destinations in India: Best Romantic Locations and Cool Places for Couples

10. Bodh Gaya – Bihar

Image Source : https://en.wikipedia.org

In Bihar’s Gaya District, there is a Buddhist pilgrimage center called Bodh Gaya. Under the Bodhi tree at the Mahabodhi Temple, Buddha achieved enlightenment, which gained fame.

There is a boom in Bodh Gaya tourism all year round, with pilgrims from India and other countries paying their respects in monasteries, temples, and at the remains of the Bodhi tree. Discover this holy site of Buddhism with our Bihar & UP Darshan Tour Packages.

Why Visit in May?

  • Spiritual destination with global significance.

Who Should Visit?

  • Spiritual travelers

How to reach Bodh Gaya?

  • Bodh Gaya is only 17 kilometers from the Gaya airport. Even though this airport has good connections to Kolkata, the frequency there is not very high. Alternatively, you can fly to Patna airport, which is 135 kilometers from Gaya.
  • Patna is well-connected to most Indian cities. The closest rail station to Bodh Gaya is Gaya, which is only 13 kilometers away. Patna is easily accessible by road from Bodh Gaya.

Places to Visit in Bodh Gaya

  • Bodhi Tree
  • Thai Monastery
  • The Mahabodhi Temple
  • Great Buddha Statue
  • Muchalinda Lake

Things to do in Bodh Gaya

  • Relax at the Muchalinda Lake
  • Explore the monasteries in town
  • Visit Indosan Nipponji Temple
  • Experience the Butter Lamps ritual
  • Visit The Archeological Museum of Bodh Gaya

Estimated Cost

  • ₹6,000 – ₹12,000

Travel Tips

  • Carry light cotton clothes (hot weather)

Also Read: Discover India’s Top 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: A 2025-26 Travel Guide!

Also Read: Must-Try India Street foods In 2026: A City-by-City Guide! (Updated)

Travel Tips for Visiting India in May

  • Prefer hill stations over plains
  • Book hotels and transport in advance
  • Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hydration
  • Avoid afternoon travel in hot regions
  • Pack light woolens for hill stations

In the End:

May can be a difficult month in most parts of the country, but thanks to India’s diversity, we still have places to visit. Flamingo Transworld offers a variety of domestic tour packages to suit your needs. With their presence, these best places to visit in India in May will turn an ordinary holiday into a delightful one.

Planning a summer vacation? Explore customized India tour packages with Flamingo Transworld and enjoy a hassle-free holiday experience.

FAQs Regarding the Best places to visit in May in India

Which location in India is the best to visit in May?

Saputara, Mt, Abu, Chamba, Dehradun, and many more.

Which hill station is ideal for visiting in May?

Dehradun, Chamba, Saputara, Mt. Abu, Kashmir, Manali, etc.

How is the weather in India in May?

In India, May is the hottest month of the year, and it can certainly get very hot. But the places mentioned above will provide a fantastic contrast to this hot weather.

Where in India is it chilly in May?

Dehradun, Chamba, Shimla, Kashmir, and other places in India have cooler weather.

Is May a suitable month to take a trip to Darjeeling?

The temperature is usually around 25°C and is the perfect month to visit Darjeeling. Summer months, from April to June, are ideal for Darjeeling tourism because the weather is at its best, and there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy.

Which is the coldest place in India in May?

Darjeeling and Chamba are among the coolest destinations.

Is Kerala good to visit in May?

Yes, places like Munnar offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Which is the best budget destination in May?

Saputara and Mount Abu are affordable options.

Is it safe to visit Rajasthan in May?

Yes, but avoid daytime heat and prefer Mount Abu over desert cities.

Which destination is best for wildlife in May?

Jim Corbett is ideal for tiger sightings.

About Author

Nikita Karia
Nikita Karia

Nikita Karia has eleven years of experience working in the B2B travel trade, focusing on international destinations. Thus, writing tourism content comes naturally to her. She has traveled across countries- like Singapore, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and South Africa.

Additionally, she has a flair for writing about healthcare, technology, mental health, education, and e-commerce. Her purpose of the write-up is to simplify the contents in a way that resonates with the reader. When she is not writing, she enjoys tweaking her gardening skills

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