Places to Visit in India in May
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Why May is hill-station season
May is one of the hottest months across the Indian plains, which makes it the classic month to head for altitude. The destinations below stay pleasantly cool while most of the country swelters.
Where to go
- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh — colonial-era charm, ridge walks and easy rail access on the Kalka–Shimla toy train.
- Ooty, Tamil Nadu — the Nilgiris’ tea gardens and botanical gardens are at their best before the monsoon.
- Sikkim — rhododendrons in bloom and clear mountain views in early May.
- Ladakh — the season opener: passes begin to open and the high desert is accessible again.
Planning tips
Book hill-station stays early — May is Indian school-holiday season and weekends sell out. Carry layers: days are warm but evenings above 2,000 m still drop sharply.