As the Indian plains begin to sizzle under the scorching summer sun, May becomes the ideal month to escape to the cool, refreshing heights of the country’s most beloved hill stations. Whether you’re drawn to snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, tea gardens, or peaceful forest retreats, India’s hill stations are perfectly poised to offer a break from the heat — and much more.
In this two-part guide, we explore the top hill stations across North, South, and Northeast India to visit in May — covering weather conditions, top attractions, travel tips, and links to complete regional guides to help you plan a stress-free mountain holiday.
Why Travel to Hill Stations in May?
May marks the peak of summer in most parts of India, with temperatures in the plains often soaring above 40°C. Hill stations, perched at higher altitudes, offer:
- Cooler temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C
- Lush green landscapes and clear skies
- Seasonal festivals, local cuisine, and outdoor adventures
- An escape from the hustle and heat of city life
Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic honeymoon, solo trek, or cultural retreat, there’s a hill station waiting for you this May.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
One of the most sought-after destinations in summer, Manali offers snow-kissed peaks, adventure sports, riverside cafés, and stunning Himalayan vistas.
Weather in May:
- Day: 15°C to 25°C
- Night: 7°C to 10°C
- Snow may still be visible in Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass (if open)
Top Things to Do:
- Visit Hadimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple
- Adventure sports in Solang Valley: paragliding, zorbing, and ATV rides
- Day trip to Rohtang Pass or Gulaba
- Walk along the Beas River or explore Old Manali’s cafés
May is one of the best times to explore Himachal Pradesh overall. For a broader travel perspective, check the full Himachal Pradesh in May guide.
2. Kufri & Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Just 20 km from Shimla, Kufri is a cool haven with thick pine forests, yak rides, panoramic views, and a much calmer atmosphere than its capital neighbor.
Kufri Weather in May:
- Cool mornings and evenings
- Perfect for trekking and photography
- Less crowded than Manali and Shimla
Highlights:
- Enjoy the Himalayan Nature Park and Kufri Fun World
- Trek to Mahasu Peak
- Visit Jakhoo Temple and Mall Road in Shimla
For a deeper dive into Kufri’s weather and travel tips, explore this detailed Kufri in May travel guide.
3. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Gulmarg, a scenic meadow located in Kashmir, is still carpeted with flowers and green pastures in May while offering distant snow views from nearby peaks. It’s also a haven for gondola rides and leisurely walks.
Gulmarg Weather in May:
- Day: 12°C to 20°C
- Night: 3°C to 8°C
- Clear skies, occasional rain showers
Must-Do Activities:
- Ride the Gulmarg Gondola (one of the highest in the world)
- Visit St. Mary’s Church and Gulmarg Golf Course
- Trekking to Alpather Lake (partially frozen in early May)
Learn more about attractions and tips in this Gulmarg May travel guide.
4. Ladakh, Union Territory of Ladakh
If you’re ready for an adventurous and high-altitude escape, Ladakh in May marks the beginning of the tourist season. The roads from Manali and Srinagar start opening, and the stark beauty of the desert mountains begins to bloom.
Ladakh Weather in May:
- Day: 12°C to 20°C
- Night: Sub-zero at higher altitudes
- Dry, clear, and sunny with minimal rainfall
Top Experiences:
- Visit Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Tso Moriri
- Explore monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit
- Road trip via Khardung La and Chang La
- Camping under the stars
Before you go, check this comprehensive Ladakh May travel guide for acclimatization and packing tips.
5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Often referred to as the “Queen of the Nilgiris,” Ooty is South India’s favorite summer destination. It boasts colonial charm, sprawling tea estates, and misty mountain weather throughout May.
Ooty Weather in May:
- Day: 15°C to 23°C
- Night: Around 12°C
- Ideal for walks, boating, and sightseeing
Don’t Miss:
- Boat ride in Ooty Lake
- Visit the Government Botanical Garden
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train ride
- Explore tea museums and Doddabetta Peak
To plan your itinerary, read this full Ooty in May travel guide.
6. Munnar, Kerala
Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Munnar is another ideal destination to beat the heat. Its rolling tea gardens, pleasant air, and misty mornings make it a top pick for couples and nature enthusiasts.
Weather in May:
- Daytime: 18°C to 25°C
- Cool breeze and occasional drizzles
Things to Explore:
- Eravikulam National Park (spot the Nilgiri Tahr)
- Visit the Tea Museum
- Trek to Anamudi Peak or Echo Point
- Enjoy a relaxed plantation stay
For more places in the state, explore this curated Kerala in May travel guide.
7. Tawang & Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Northeast India is a hidden treasure when it comes to summer escapes. Arunachal Pradesh, in particular, offers pristine nature, Buddhist culture, and cool temperatures even in May.
Tawang Highlights:
- Tawang Monastery (largest in India)
- Sela Pass with snow even in late spring
- Lakes like Madhuri and Pangateng Tso
Ziro Highlights:
- Endless green valleys and rice fields
- Rich Apatani tribal culture
- Ideal for photography and offbeat travel
Get travel routes, weather insights, and cultural tips from this Arunachal Pradesh in May guide.
8. Shillong & Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
In the heart of Meghalaya, Shillong and Cherrapunji offer an escape into cloud forests, waterfalls, and living root bridges — all thriving during the pre-monsoon month of May.
Weather in May:
- Refreshing with light showers
- Lush green landscapes and blooming flowers
Must-Visit:
- Elephant Falls, Mawphlang Forest, Umiam Lake (Shillong)
- Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters Falls (Cherrapunji)
- Explore living root bridges and caves like Mawsmai
Discover more northeast summer ideas in this detailed Northeast India in May guide.
9. Assam Hill Escapes: Haflong
While Assam is generally known for its tea estates and plains, Haflong, its only hill station, is a peaceful place surrounded by hills and rivers.
Weather in May:
- 18°C to 25°C
- Misty mornings and mild showers
Ideal for those who want an offbeat destination without the crowds. Find out more in this Assam May travel guide.
10. Mussoorie, Nainital & Auli, Uttarakhand
No summer hill station list is complete without Uttarakhand’s iconic trio — Mussoorie, Nainital, and Auli. Each town offers a unique summer escape, from colonial charm to snow-capped hiking trails.
Weather in May:
- 12°C to 25°C
- Sunny days and cool evenings
Highlights:
- Mussoorie: Camel’s Back Road, Gun Hill, Kempty Falls
- Nainital: Boating in Naini Lake, Naina Peak, Tiffin Top
- Auli: Cable car rides and meadows with distant snow views
For a complete plan, read this Uttarakhand May travel guide.
11. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor Ooty, Coonoor offers everything that a peaceful hill vacation demands — fewer crowds, misty mountain views, colonial architecture, and endless tea gardens.
Coonoor Weather in May:
- Daytime: 15°C to 24°C
- Cool breezes and occasional mist in the evenings
Things to Do:
- Trek to Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose viewpoints
- Visit Sim’s Park and explore rare botanical species
- Tour the Highfield Tea Estate
- Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Ooty
For more details on weather, attractions, and itinerary, check out the Coonoor May Travel Guide.
12. Dharamshala & McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh
If you prefer mountain views blended with culture and spirituality, Dharamshala and McLeodganj offer cooler air, quiet forests, Tibetan culture, and some of India’s most serene monasteries.
Weather in May:
- 18°C to 28°C
- Pleasant and dry, perfect for treks and sightseeing
Top Experiences:
- Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex
- Hike to Triund for sunrise views
- Stroll through Norbulingka Institute for traditional art
- Explore Tibetan cafés and local bakeries
This region is perfect for long stays, digital nomads, and those seeking peace and personal growth during the summer.
13. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Another underrated gem of South India, Yercaud, located in the Shevaroy Hills near Salem, is perfect for travelers who want a quiet hill station with lakes, forest trails, and colonial bungalows.
Weather in May:
- Day: 20°C to 28°C
- Less crowded and surprisingly cool for Tamil Nadu summers
Things to Explore:
- Yercaud Lake for boating
- Lady’s Seat for panoramic views
- Shevaroy Temple and Bear’s Cave
- Coffee and spice plantation visits
14. Pelling, Sikkim
Located in West Sikkim, Pelling is gaining popularity as a peaceful alternative to Gangtok. In May, the skies are clear, and the mighty Kanchenjunga range is often visible at sunrise.
Weather in May:
- Day: 10°C to 20°C
- Ideal for nature photography and monastery hopping
Highlights:
- Pemayangtse Monastery
- Khecheopalri Lake (a sacred wish-fulfilling lake)
- Skywalk and Singshore Bridge
- Short hikes through forested trails
15. Aizawl, Mizoram
For travelers willing to explore the unexplored, Aizawl offers a blend of cultural depth, stunning hills, and tribal traditions in a setting far removed from commercial tourism.
Weather in May:
- Mildly warm with gentle pre-monsoon showers
- Green, misty hills all around
Best Experiences:
- Viewpoint at Durtlang Hills
- Visit Solomon’s Temple and Luangmual Handicrafts Centre
- Interact with locals in traditional markets
- Take side trips to Tam Dil Lake or Reiek Peak
Major Festivals in India in May Worth Planning Around
India isn’t just about landscapes in May. The month also brings vibrant festivals and regional celebrations that can enhance your travel experience in these hill stations.
1. Buddha Purnima
- Celebrated across Himachal, Ladakh, and Sikkim
- Witness prayer rituals and butter lamp offerings at monasteries
2. Moatsu Festival (Nagaland)
- A traditional tribal celebration of harvest and community
3. Summer Festival in Mount Abu (Rajasthan)
- Though not a traditional hill station, Mount Abu comes alive in May with folk music, boat races, and cultural shows
For more, explore our complete guide to major Indian festivals in May.
Best Hill Stations in May for Different Types of Travelers
Depending on your travel preferences, here’s a curated list of where you should head:
For Couples (Romantic Escapes):
- Auli (Uttarakhand): Cable car rides and snow-tipped romance
- Munnar (Kerala): Tea gardens and secluded stays
- McLeodganj: Mountain cafés and meditation together
- Gulmarg: Gondola views and meadows in bloom
For a full experience, browse for Honeymoon Best Honeymoon Destinations in India in May 2025
Explore Guide For Families:
- Nainital (Uttarakhand): Boating, zoo, mall road strolls
- Ooty (Tamil Nadu): Gardens, train rides, and lakeside picnics
- Mussoorie: Safe, accessible, with kid-friendly attractions
- Shimla-Kufri: Well-connected and packed with family resorts
Guide for Solo Travelers:
- Leh-Ladakh: Adventure, solitude, and spiritual depth
- Dharamshala: Easy to navigate and safe for solo travelers
- Shillong: Music cafés, serene trails, and friendly locals
- Ziro: Peaceful with homestays and nature immersion
Practical Travel Tips for May Hill Station Trips
1. Book in Advance (Especially for Uttarakhand and Himachal)
May is peak summer travel time for northern hill stations. Reserve your stay, transportation, and permits early if you plan to visit popular spots.
2. Pack in Layers
Even though it’s summer, hill stations experience significant temperature drops at night. Bring a mix of light cotton clothes for the day and warm sweaters or jackets for the evening.
3. Prepare for Unexpected Showers
Especially in Northeast India and Kerala, May can bring pre-monsoon rains. Carry an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket.
4. Altitude Awareness
If you’re heading to Ladakh, Spiti, or Tawang, take your time to acclimatize. Drink water, avoid overexertion, and consider carrying medication after consulting your doctor.
5. Respect Local Culture
Some hill stations, especially in Northeast India and Ladakh, have deeply rooted traditions. Dress modestly near religious sites and interact respectfully with local communities.
Suggested Hill Station Itinerary for May (7 Days)
Option 1: Himachal Adventure Loop
1–2 Day: Shimla and Kufri
3 Day: Transfer to Manali
4 Day: Solang Valley + Local Manali
5 Day: Day trip to Gulaba or Rohtang (if open)
6 Day: Manali to Dharamshala
7 Day: McLeodganj + return
Option 2: Northeast Cultural Circuit
1–2 Day: Shillong
3 Day : Cherrapunji waterfalls and caves
4–5 Day: Drive to Ziro (via Guwahati or Itanagar)
6 Day : Ziro rice fields + tribal villages
7 Day : Return journey
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Summer Escape
Whether you’re looking to sip tea in misty plantations, hike through pine-covered trails, meditate in quiet monasteries, or just enjoy cool weather with great food, India’s hill stations have something for everyone in May.
From the celebrated heights of Manali and Nainital to the lesser-known charm of Yercaud, Pelling, and Ziro, your dream escape from the summer heat is just a road trip or flight away.
To help you plan better, explore these complete regional guides:
- Uttarakhand in May Travel Guide
- Himachal Pradesh in May Travel Guide
- Places to Visit in South India in May
- Places to Visit in North India in May
- Northeast India in May Travel Guide
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