India in May: Why May is a Great Month to Travel to India

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Although May sits firmly within the hot Indian summer months, there are still plenty of amazing reasons to visit India during this time. India in May is one of the best times to spot the endangered Bengal tiger and to trek through the foothills of the Himalayas. If you are looking for some beach fun, head to coastal areas like Goa and Kerala. And surely, there are no shortages of cultural and historical attractions. A great time awaits if you visit India in May.

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India Weather in May

View of fog in the town of Darjeeling, India in May
May is a good time to visit Darjeeling and the temperature is not too cold

During summer in India, the month of May marks the peak, bringing with it hot temperatures that envelop much of the country. Overall, the temperature averages 31°C, but this may vary depending on where you visit. The deserts of Rajasthan and the river plains of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, for example, can get scorching hot. The hill and mountain regions, on the other hand, have perfect temperatures, ranging between 15°C and 25°C. If you are still worried about hot weather during your Indian adventure, keep to the Malabar and Coromandel coasts or nearby areas. This way you will have plenty of ways to cool off.

For a seasonal overview, read our article on the best time to visit India.

Weather in India in May - Rainfall and Temperatures

AprMayJun
Avg Daily (°C)363937
Avg Nightly (°C)222627
Avg Daily (°F)9710399
Avg Nightly (°F)727981
Avg Rainfall (mm)81374

Why Visit India in May

Aerial photo of Ropeway cable car over Gangtok city during sunset in Sikkim
You will be able to catch superb glimpses of some of the prettiest looking sunsets in Sikkim
Madurai in India
Meenakshi Amman Temple is the biggest attraction in Madurai. Visit the mystifying location on your trip to India in May

India is a land of diverse geography, culture, and heritage. It has a lot to show and give to its visitors no matter the time of year you travel here—and May is not an exception. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit India in May:

  • Big cat safari: Summer heat draws animals to the watering holes of its many national parks, which in turn attracts the Bengal tigers to these sites. Embark on a tiger safari and increase your chances of spotting the otherwise elusive big cat.
  • Mountain hikes: The window for visiting the Himalayas is limited to just a few weeks each year, with May being one of the best months. So put on your walking boots and explore the beautiful mountain region of India.
  • Exciting festivals: India is one of the richest countries in terms of culture. This means there are festivals and celebrations galore. For May festivities, head to Kerala for Thrissur Pooram celebrations, Ooty to join the Summer Festival, or take part in the festivities for the Buddhist new year observed throughout the country.
  • Low season benefits: Traditionally, May is not the busiest time in India for international tourism. So take advantage of the off-season travel and accommodation deals, even in big cities such as New Delhi. And, into the bargain, you will get the benefit of low crowds at the country’s top attractions. 

Where to go and what to do

Smooth coated otter eating fish in Jim Corbett National Park, India
Experience different wildlife in Jim Corbett National Park on your trip to India in May

When it comes to things to do in India in May, travelers should definitely direct their focus on areas of the country where temperatures are at their coolest. Head either to the Himalayas, the many hill stations created during the British Raj or to the country’s vast coastal regions. Destinations in the Himalayas include Sikkim and Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, home to the Dalai Lama and a large Tibetan diaspora. The more adventurous might also consider Indian-administered Kashmir, one of our top places to visit in India. Alternatively, hill stations such as Shimla and Darjeeling—famous for their tea—are also ripe for discovery during May.

For wildlife and tiger spotting, India has dozens of national parks and reserves to choose from. Visit Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan or Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, you will have a better chance of spotting the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
Beach and watersports lovers should head to either Kerala or Goa on India’s west coast, where there are lush sand beaches and warm seas.

Check out our guide to find out how many days to spend in India.

The sheer size of India means the weather conditions are different even if you happen to be traveling at the peak of the summer season. The country is amply blessed with natural beauty as well as culture for travelers to get lost in. From the majestic Himalayas to the inviting beaches of Goa and everything in between, you will find joy and excitement in India.

Speak to our local travel experts for a customized trip to India or alternatively look at our India tours in May.

Published by David Lee, updated on May 9, 2023

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