The summer heat often inspires us to enjoy travelling to regions that feature greenery, water, and chilly winds. This is exactly when people start searching for some best places to visit in May/June in India. Though there are a lot of good places, some always stand out. Here is an incredible list of places to consider to escape from the scorching sun.
1. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station located in the district of Dindigul, Tamil Nadu. In Tamil, Kodaikanal signifies “The Gift of the Forest.” Often referred as the “Princess of all Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal features not only various attractive sightseeing but also is admired for its incredible history.
Standing true to its actual name, Kodaikanal has luscious trees, lush greenery, enchanting waterfalls, and beautiful rock formations. With spiraling Ghats overseeing the greeneries, this hilltop has become an ideal location for travellers who want tranquility and peace while savoring the nature’s beauty.
2.Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from different countries around the world. Well admired for its temples and ashrams, Rishikesh is a beautiful city located in the state of Uttarakhand. Since it is situated at the base of the Himalayan Mountains, it is popularly known as the “Gateway to the Himalayas.” However, this isn’t the only nickname it has. With saints and Hindu sages having visited this holy place to meditate since ancient times, it is also called the “Yoga Capital of the World.”
In fact, each year during February, the International Yoga Festival is organized for 1 week here and that’s exactly when many foreigners pour in, making it more crowded. However, May month is the perfect time to visit this beautiful city. Besides all these, Rishikesh is a well-known place amongst adventure tourists because it offers different activities like bungee jumping, water rafting, mountain biking, etc.
3. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie is one of the best places to visit in May in India. It is a popular hilltop located in the district of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It lies in the foothills of the Himalayan range and features some of the most striking valleys and green hills.
Located at a height of 6,170 feet (1,880 meters) on average, Mussoorie has fascinating hills and diverse range of flora and fauna. No wonder it is called the “Queen of Hills.” It is not only popular for its charming beauty but also admired for its business and education centers.
4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the best places to visit in May in India because it is admired for its splendid attractions. Snuggled in the huge mountains of Kullu Valley, Manali is located in the State of Himachal Pradesh at an elevation of 6,726 feet (or 2,050 meters).
Though it features vast views of dense green forests, mountain ranges, orchards, and rivers, this place in the early days served as an important route for trade. However, the same route is now used for adventure purpose, especially for jeep riders and bikers.
5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley is an incredible cold desert valley that is located in the Great Himalayan Mountains of Himachal Pradesh. The term “Spiti” denotes “The Middle Land,” as it serves as the land between India and Tibet.
Spiti Valley is not only one of the least populated places in India but also serves as a vital gateway to many northernmost regions. Aptly named as the “Little Tibet,” Spiti is rough, barren, and rugged but yet completely striking. It is surrounded by gorges and ravines, making it one of the must-visit destination on your bucket list. With picturesque hamlets, vibrant monasteries, plush forests, splendid lakes, and snow-laden mountains, Spiti is not only the preferred spot for most travelers but also the favorite of Dalai Lama.
6. Kalimpong, West Bengal
With an elevation of 4,101 feet (1,250 meters), Kalimpong is an incredible hill station located in the state of West Bengal. Far from the hustle of metro cities’ hectic life, this wonderful hilltop relishes the feel as if you are in the cool breeze of Himalayan Mountains.
The wide variety and fresh fragrance of flowers are sure to evoke an emotion of joy and cheerfulness. Featured with the calm sacredness of different Buddhist religious houses where faith takes time to associate with the divine, a place like Kalimpong is exactly the spot that every tourist prefers.
7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty (also known as Ootacamund or Udagai or Udagamandalam) is not only Tamil Nadu’s but also India’s one of the most spectacular hill stations. Rich green grassy slopes, misty clouds, and eucalyptus-studded pathways make Ooty one of the best places to see in May in India.
This place is extremely popular for its immense natural beauty and tall trees. It is an ideal retreat to escape from the busy lifestyle and be impressed with the attractions it offers. Enthralled with its salubrious weather and picturesque opulence, the British rulers initially decided to embellish Ooty and that’s the reason even today, Ooty is dotted with some outstanding remnants of colonial buildings. From Botanical Garden to Stone House and Nilgiri Railways to Ooty Lake, the vintage touch is still alive.
8. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Located at an elevation of 1,067 meters, Pachmarhi is yet another famous hill station to spend your summer holidays at. It is situated in the district of Hoshangabad, Madhya Pradesh and is a well-known tourist retreat.
This place features various timber reserves and cave paintings, which according to historians is assessed to be about 10,000+ years old. With rare flora and fauna, Pachmarhi is reported to be undertaken by the state and central government. That’s exactly why construction of buildings is not permitted outside the town region.
9. Wayanad, Kerala
Lying amongst the luxuriant Western Ghats, the spectacular “Wayanad” is a captivating hill station in the state of Kerala. It is otherwise known as the “Green Paradise” because it shares its borders with some green patches other states.
Rich green agriculture fields, misty hills, and dense forests add a scenic charm. Though there are a lot of incredible attractions to see here, the most popular is the Wayanad bird sanctuary. It features some rare bird species and gorgeous flora as well as fauna.
10. Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh
We have saved the best for the last and Dharamsala is truly one of India’s most irresistible destinations. It is a second home to all the mountain lovers, the majority of whom are foreigners. Formerly known as Bhagsu, Dharamsala is located in the district of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh and shines amidst the Tibetan mists.
For casual travelers (who like hill stations), Dharamsala’s alluring beauty is sure to impress. Featuring lots of greens and a cool climate year-round, it is the perfect getaway for all the urban dwellers.
