Best Tour Places in India in May – Top Destinations to Beat the Heat
May is the perfect month to take a break from the scorching heat of the plains and escape to the cooler, greener, and more scenic corners of India. From snow-kissed mountains to tea-scented hills and tranquil lakes, here are the best tour places in India in May — ideal for a summer holiday you won’t forget.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – A Summer Wonderland
Best Tour Places in India in May
Why visit: Snowy peaks, adventure sports, honeymoon destination
Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
Manali is among the most visited summer destinations in North India. From the Rohtang Pass to Solang Valley, Manali is perfect for couples, families, and thrill-seekers.
Top Attractions:
- Rohtang Pass
- Solang Valley
- Hadimba Temple
Internal link idea: Read more: Complete Manali Travel Guide – Things to Do & Itinerary
2. Darjeeling, West Bengal – The Queen of the Hills
Best Tour Places in India in May
Why visit: Tea plantations, scenic views, UNESCO heritage train
Temperature: 11°C to 19°C
Darjeeling in May offers a magical escape. Enjoy misty mornings, mountain backdrops, and a steaming cup of world-famous Darjeeling tea.
Must-See:
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
- Tiger Hill sunrise
- Happy Valley Tea Estate
Internal link idea: Discover Top Hill Stations in India for Summer
3. Munnar, Kerala – A Green Paradise
Best Tour Places in India in May
Why visit: Tea gardens, waterfalls, peaceful retreats
Temperature: 15°C to 25°C
Located in Kerala’s Western Ghats, Munnar is a top pick for summer travelers. Perfect for couples and families alike, Munnar offers some of the most scenic landscapes in South India.
Don’t Miss:
- Eravikulam National Park
- Kundala Lake
- Attukal Waterfalls
Internal link idea: Explore more: Romantic Getaways in Kerala
4. Gangtok, Sikkim – Serenity with a View
Why visit: Monasteries, clean city, natural beauty
Temperature: 13°C to 22°C
Gangtok is Sikkim’s serene capital, and May is one of the best months to visit. Ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers, Gangtok blends spirituality with adventure.
Key Sites:
- Tsomgo Lake
- Rumtek Monastery
- Nathula Pass
Internal link idea: Plan your trip: North East India Travel Tips
5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – The South Indian Summer Retreat
Best Tour Places in India in May
Why visit: Botanical gardens, toy train, cool weather
Temperature: 12°C to 25°C
Ooty remains a timeless favorite for summer holidays in South India. With its pleasant weather and colonial-era charm, Ooty is perfect for a family vacation.
Highlights:
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway
- Ooty Lake
- Rose Garden
Internal link idea: Read: Top Weekend Getaways from Bangalore
6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Unexplored and Undisturbed
Why visit: Monasteries, lakes, Tibetan culture
Temperature: 5°C to 18°C
Tawang is still under most tourists’ radar, making it a peaceful destination during the summer. It’s one of the best offbeat places to visit in India in May.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Tawang Monastery
- Madhuri Lake
- Bumla Pass
Internal link idea: Check out: Best Places to Visit in Northeast India
Final Travel Tips for May
- Pack light clothes, but bring warm layers for hill areas.
- Use sunscreen and carry water to stay hydrated.
- Book accommodations early as May is a busy travel month.
- Consider taking a travel insurance policy for hilly terrain.
Plan Your May Vacation Now
From the high-altitude beauty of Tawang to the lush valleys of Munnar, India in May has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, walking through tea gardens, or soaking in mountain views, these destinations promise unforgettable memories.
1. Marine Drive
Also known as the “Queen’s Necklace,” Marine Drive is a breezy seaside promenade perfect for an early morning walk or late evening sunset. It’s cooler by the coast and offers a great escape from Mumbai’s summer heat.
📍 Location: South Mumbai
🕓 Best time: Sunrise or post-6 PM
2. Lonavala / Khandala (Weekend Getaway)
- Why visit: Just 2-3 hours drive, cooler climate, waterfalls (if early monsoon starts).
- Best for: Weekend escape from the city’s heat.
3. Powai Lake & Hiranandani Gardens
- Why visit: Serene area with good cafes, lakeside breeze in the evening.
4. Gateway of India & Colaba Causeway
- Morning visits offer cooler weather.
- Take a ferry ride to get sea breeze and views of the city skyline.
5. Darjeeling
- Scenic hill station with tea gardens, cool weather.
- Overnight train or flight to Bagdogra + drive.
6. Kalimpong or Kurseong
- Less crowded than Darjeeling, equally beautiful.
- Ideal for a peaceful retreat from the heat.
7. Sundarbans (short trip, but warm)
- Mangrove forests and tiger reserve.
- Visit only if you’re okay with a bit of heat; early morning boat safaris are better.