Summer season in India is rapidly turning into a stinging dragon. It’s especially during these summer months when you wish you were staying anywhere but the city, anywhere with breeze, anywhere you can dare to step out during the afternoon. If you’re in need to escape this heat, even for a couple of days, then we’ve rounded up the perfect summer holiday destinations in India that are perfect for group travel. May is when the heat peaks in many parts of the country, making it crucial to pick a place that doesn’t feel like an oven. But where should you go? Well, let’s look a little beyond the usual travel guides to Shimla or Manali in May, and read on for some interesting options for places to visit in May in India, especially as a group.

1. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Most people head to Himachal or Uttarakhand for a hill station holiday in India, but let’s introduce you to Tawang. This beautiful town doesn’t just have cool weather—it has a personality. Here, you’ll be greeted by monks with an unexpected sense of humour, tiny shops selling the best butter tea, and roads that might make you question your life choices but will reward you with breathtaking views.

Things to do in Tawang in May: Ride to Sela Pass early in the morning—it feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Also, if you’re looking for an unforgettable stay, head to a nice villa in Tawang for a cosy and peaceful experience.

2. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Cherrapunji in May is like a rehearsal for monsoon season. While the rest of India complains about the heat, Cherrapunji casually enjoys cool showers, making it an unexpected yet perfect summer holiday destination in India. The locals will tell you about “just another rainy day” while you stare at the endless waterfalls wondering why you didn’t visit sooner.

Things to enjoy in Cherrapunji weather: Visit the living root bridges—yes, they are made of real, living roots! Also, if you hate carrying an umbrella, get used to light showers because even the rain here has a schedule of its own.

3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

If you have ever wanted to temporarily disappear without making it obvious, Spiti is the place. This cold desert is so disconnected that even your phone signals give up. It’s one of those rare places where you don’t have to pretend to be “offline”—you actually are! May is the perfect time to visit Spiti before the crowd from June starts stirring up chaos.

Things to do in Spiti in May: Spend a night in a monastery guesthouse—it’s peaceful, slightly eerie, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience to enjoy Spiti weather. If you prefer a luxurious stay, you can also stay at a homestay in Spiti Valley with stunning views.

4. Munnar, Kerala

Most people know Munnar for its tea plantations, but let me tell you a little secret—tea here doesn’t taste like regular tea at all. Maybe it’s Munnar’s weather, maybe it’s the fresh leaves, or maybe it’s just psychological, but every sip feels like a warm hug. While North India is melting in summers, Munnar in May enjoys the kind of weather that makes you want to sit by a window and just…stay still.

Things to do in Munnar in May: Take an early morning tea-tasting tour—not only do you get to drink unlimited tea, but you also get fun facts that will make you sound smart in conversations. You can also stay in a homestay in Munnar surrounded by greenery and fresh air, and enjoy the enviable weather of Munnar in May.

5. Auli, Uttarakhand

Who says snow and summer don’t get along? Auli still holds on to patches of snow in May, making it an unusual yet fantastic summer holiday destination in India. While everyone else is sweating it out in Delhi or Mumbai, you can be here, skiing in Auli in the middle of May.

Things to do in Auli weather: Take the cable car ride—it’s slow, dramatic, and gives you the kind of views that make you question your city life choices.

6. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal isn’t just a hill station in South India; it’s an experience. Every corner, every turn, and even the roadside tea stalls have stunning views. The best part? Kodaikanal weather in May is so pleasant that you can walk around all day without sweating like a broken tap.

Things to do in Kodaikanal: Try homemade chocolates from local bakeries—you will never want to eat store-bought ones again. For a truly relaxing trip, rent a villa in Kodaikanal with a balcony that overlooks the hills of South India.

7. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

If you love strawberries, Mahabaleshwar in May is a dream. The markets are filled with them, and the strawberry cream you get here is dangerously addictive. Mahabaleshwar weather in May is cool, the vibe is relaxed, and the food is always the spotlight.

Things to do in Mahabaleshwar in May: Visit a strawberry farm and pick your own. There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking fruit straight from the plant and eating it instantly.

8. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong is not just about cool weather—it’s about cool people, cool cafes, and cool music. If you love discovering underrated cafes with live music and fantastic food, this is your place. Shillong weather in May is perfect, and the city comes alive with events and concerts.

Things to do in Shillong: Spend an evening at Dylan’s Café—great food, great music, and the kind of vibe that makes you want to stay forever.

9. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

If you have ever watched a Bollywood song set in the snow and thought, “I want to be there,” then Gulmarg in May is the perfect time to visit. The summer snow is still around, the cold breeze is refreshing, and it will truly start feeling like you’re stepping into a movie set.

Things to do in Gulmarg weather in May: Take the gondola ride—it’s a little steep, but totally worth the experience and view. Additionally, to make the most of Kashmir weather in summers, head to a homestay in Gulmarg and cook up warm stories with the family.

10. Coorg, Karnataka

Coffee lovers, this one is for you. Coorg in May is pure bliss, with fresh coffee aromas filling the air. The ambiance is raw, Coorg weather is fresh and fantastic, and every little homestay or villa feels like a warm embrace.

Things to do in Coorg in May: Stay close to a coffee estate and wake up to the sound of chirping birds and the smell of fresh coffee.

Summer Trips and Vacation Ideas with Family

Choosing where to go in India in May can be tricky, but if you pick a place that does not adversely affect you with unbearable weather, your trip can be unforgettable. Whether you want cool mountain air, endless rain, or the freshest tea and coffee, there’s a perfect place waiting for you. So, pack your bags, steer clear of the mainstream destinations, and try something new this summer!

---

Banner image courtesy West Kast via Lummi.ai

Article by: Ruben Saha