Top 10 Hill Stations to Visit in India in April and May 2026 (Weather, Crowd & Summer Travel Guide)

Hill stations in India are among the best places to visit in may in India, with temperatures typically ranging between 10°C and 28°C—offering relief from 35–45°C heat in the plains. April brings pleasant weather and moderate crowds, while May aligns with peak summer vacations and school holidays, increasing demand but also ensuring full access to seasonal attractions.

Why April & May Are the Best Months for Hill Stations in India

April and May together form the core summer travel season in India, but each month offers slightly different advantages:

• April: Pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, lower crowds
• May: Peak summer escape, ideal for families during school holidays
• Temperature range: 10–28°C across most hill regions
• Best for: Long vacations, family trips, and nature experiences

If you are looking for best hill stations to visit in India, April is better for relaxed travel and fewer crowds, while May is ideal for summer vacations despite higher tourist footfall.

Which Hill Stations in North India Are Best to Visit in April and May?

1. Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

A classic hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla blends colonial architecture, pine forests, and panoramic Himalayan views. Once the summer capital of British India, it remains one of the most popular hill stations nearest to Delhi and Chandigarh for summer escapes.

Weather in Shimla in April and May:

12–25°C. In April, Shimla experiences cool mornings (around 12–15°C) and pleasantly warm afternoons, making it ideal for long walks and sightseeing without heat fatigue. By May, daytime temperatures rise slightly (20–25°C), but the climate remains comfortable compared to the plains, with clear skies and longer daylight hours. Evenings and nights continue to be cool, especially in higher-altitude areas like Kufri, often requiring light woollens.

How to get to Shimla:

• Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport (approx. 120 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (connects to Delhi & major cities); toy train to Shimla
• Bus Connectivity: Regular HRTC and private buses from Delhi & Chandigarh
• Major Highway: NH5 connects Shimla to Chandigarh and further to Delhi

Why April and May are ideal:

April offers fewer crowds and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for relaxed exploration. May marks peak summer holidays, bringing vibrant energy, open attractions, and family-friendly activities. The weather stays comfortable throughout both months, making it suitable for sightseeing and outdoor walks.

Tourist sites in Shimla:

• The Ridge
• Mall Road
• Jakhoo Temple
• Kufri
• Christ Church

Things to do:

• Ride the UNESCO‑listed Kalka–Shimla toy train through scenic mountain tunnels and valleys.
• Walk along Mall Road and The Ridge to explore colonial buildings, cafes, and mountain viewpoints.
• Visit Kufri for horse riding trails, panoramic Himalayan views, and nature parks.
• Trek to Jakhoo Temple hilltop for Hanuman temple views and panoramic city landscapes.

Places to Stay in Shimla

Teer Bangla

The Altair

2. Mussoorie (Uttarakhand)

Often called the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie overlooks the Doon Valley and offers misty mountain landscapes, colonial-era charm, and scenic walking trails. Located about 35 km from Dehradun, it is one of the most visited hill stations in North India.

Weather in Mussoorie in April and May:

10–24°C. April in Mussoorie is marked by crisp air, cool mornings (around 10–14°C), and bright, sunny afternoons—ideal for outdoor exploration. In May, temperatures rise moderately during the day (18–24°C), but humidity remains low and evenings stay breezy and comfortable making Mussoorie the best place to go in India in may. Night temperatures drop enough to maintain a refreshing hill-station feel, especially in elevated viewpoints like Lal Tibba.

How to get to Mussoorie:

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 60 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station (35 km)
• Bus Connectivity: Frequent buses from Delhi to Dehradun, then taxis to Mussoorie
• Major Highway: NH7 connects Delhi to Dehradun

Why April and May are ideal:

April offers blooming rhododendrons and peaceful exploration. May is peak tourist season due to school holidays, making it lively with full access to ropeways, viewpoints, and attractions. The climate remains comfortable throughout, ideal for family trips.

Places to visit:

• Kempty Falls
• Gun Hill
• Camel’s Back Road
• Lal Tibba

Things to do:

• Take the cable car ride to Gun Hill for sweeping views of the Doon Valley and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
• Walk along Camel’s Back Road, a scenic 3 km trail known for sunset views and quiet mountain walks.
• Visit Kempty Falls to enjoy cascading waterfalls and small natural pools.
• Explore Lal Tibba viewpoint, the highest point in Mussoorie offering telescopic Himalayan views.

Places to Stay in Mussoorie:

Mountain Whispers

Bourbon Sky

3. Nainital (Uttarakhand)

Built around the emerald‑green Naini Lake, Nainital is one of the most picturesque hill stations in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by forested hills and viewpoints, it remains a favourite summer retreat for travellers from Delhi and northern India.

Weather in Nainital in April and May:

10–25°C. April sees cool mornings (10–14°C) and pleasant afternoons, perfect for lakeside walks. In May, daytime temperatures rise to 20–25°C, but the lake breeze keeps conditions comfortable; evenings remain cool with a light jacket recommended.

How to get to Nainital:

• Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (approx. 70 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (35 km)
• Bus Connectivity: Regular buses from Delhi, Haldwani, and Kathgodam
• Major Highway: NH109 connects Nainital to Kathgodam and Haldwani

Why April and May are ideal:

April offers blooming gardens and fewer crowds, while May is peak tourist season due to summer vacations and the famous Ooty Summer Festival. Weather remains consistently pleasant, making it one of the best summer hill stations in India.

Places to visit:

• Naini Lake
• Naina Devi Temple
• Snow View Point
• Tiffin Top

Things to do:

• Enjoy a peaceful boat ride across Naini Lake while viewing the surrounding mountain slopes.
• Take the ropeway to Snow View Point for panoramic Himalayan views including Nanda Devi peaks.
• Explore Mall Road’s lakeside promenade filled with cafes, shops, and local markets.
• Trek to Tiffin Top for sunrise views and scenic photography of the entire Nainital valley.

Places to Stay in Nainital

Bird’s Crest – Ramgarh

Aloe Villa

Which Hill Stations in South India Are Best in April and May?

4. Ooty (Tamil Nadu)

Ooty, officially known as Udhagamandalam, is a scenic hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by tea estates, eucalyptus forests, and rolling hills, it remains one of the most famous hill stations in South India.

Weather in Ooty in April and May:

15–25°C. April in Ooty offers mild, spring-like conditions with daytime temperatures around 18–22°C and cool nights, making it perfect for sightseeing and garden visits. In May, temperatures remain steady but slightly warmer during afternoons, rarely exceeding 25°C. Early mornings and late evenings continue to be cool and misty, providing consistent relief from the intense summer heat of Tamil Nadu and nearby regions.

How to I get to Ooty:

• Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 85 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station (toy train to Ooty)
• Bus Connectivity: KSRTC and TNSTC buses from Bangalore, Mysore, and Coimbatore
• Major Highway: NH181 connects Ooty via Coimbatore and Mysore

Why April and May are ideal:

April marks the beginning of Ooty’s most beautiful season when gardens, tea estates, and forest trails appear lush and colourful. Scenic train rides and outdoor sightseeing become more enjoyable due to clear skies and blooming landscapes. Visiting Ooty in May offers pleasant, cool weather to escape the summer heat, making it perfect for sightseeing and experiencing the annual Ooty Summer Festival. Highlights include the famous Flower Show, boat rides on Ooty Lake, and strolling through blooming botanical gardens.

Sites to visit in Ooty:

• Ooty Botanical Garden
• Ooty Lake
• Doddabetta Peak
• Rose Garden

Things to do:

• Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train between Ooty and Coonoor through scenic mountain landscapes.
• Visit sprawling tea plantations to learn about tea processing and sample fresh Nilgiri tea.
• Go boating at Ooty Lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees and picturesque hill views.
• Trek to Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills, for panoramic valley views.

Places to Stay in Ooty

Under The Stars

3 Rooms @ Villa Sullivan

5. Munnar (Kerala)

Munnar is one of Kerala’s most beautiful hill stations, famous for endless tea plantations, misty mountains, and wildlife parks in the Western Ghats. Located about 1,600 metres above sea level, it offers cooler temperatures than most of South India.

Weather in Munnar in April and May:

16–26°C. April in Munnar is characterised by balanced weather, with pleasant daytime temperatures (18–24°C) and cool, refreshing mornings surrounded by misty hills. By May, daytime temperatures rise slightly but rarely feel harsh due to altitude and greenery. Evenings remain cool and breezy, and occasional cloud cover helps maintain a comfortable climate throughout the day.

How do I get to Munnar:

• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approx. 110 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Aluva / Ernakulam Junction (110–130 km)
• Bus Connectivity: KSRTC buses from Kochi, Aluva, and Madurai
• Major Highway: NH85 connects Kochi to Munnar

Why April and May are ideal:

Visiting Munnar in April offers a perfect, cool escape from the summer heat with pleasant temperatures, lush green landscapes, and the unique, vibrant purple Jacaranda bloom. It’s ideal for trekking, visiting Eravikulam National Park to see the Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoying clear views, making it a great time for nature lovers. May is perfect for summer vacations with active tea estates and clear viewpoints. Despite peak season, Munnar remains less crowded than North Indian hill stations making it the best place to visit during may in India.

Sites to visit in Munnar:

• Eravikulam National Park
• Mattupetty Dam
• Tea Museum
• Top Station

Things to do:

• Walk through rolling tea estates and learn about tea processing at the Tata Tea Museum.
• Visit Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy mountain grasslands.
• Take a scenic boat ride at Mattupetty Dam surrounded by forests and hills.
• Drive to Top Station viewpoint for sweeping views of the Western Ghats and Tamil Nadu valleys.

Places to Stay in Munnar

Vale Echoes

Titha Villa

West India Hill Stations for Summer Vacation in April and May

6. Mahabaleshwar (Maharashtra)

Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station in Maharashtra known for its dramatic viewpoints, strawberry farms, and evergreen forests. Located about 120 km from Pune and 260 km from Mumbai, it is one of the most accessible hill stations in western India.

Weather in Mahabaleshwar in April and May:

18–30°C. April in Mahabaleshwar offers pleasant conditions with temperatures ranging between 18–28°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In May, afternoons can get warmer (up to 30°C), but the hill station still feels significantly cooler than Mumbai and Pune. Early mornings and evenings remain breezy and comfortable, often accompanied by light winds that enhance the overall experience.

Why April and May are ideal:

April is a great time to visit Mahabaleshwar because the weather remains cooler before peak summer heat arrives in nearby cities. Strawberry farms are still active and scenic viewpoints offer clear valley views. May is peak holiday time, making it lively and ideal for family trips. Even in May, the weather is significantly cooler than Mumbai.

How do I get to Mahabaleshwar:

• Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (approx. 120 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Wathar (limited) / Pune Railway Station (best option)
• Bus Connectivity: MSRTC buses from Mumbai and Pune
• Major Highway: NH48 via Wai connects Pune to Mahabaleshwar

Places to visit in Mahabaleshwar:

• Arthur’s Seat
• Elephant’s Head Point
• Mapro Garden
• Venna Lake

Things to do:

• Go boating at Venna Lake while enjoying surrounding forested hill views.
• Visit Mapro Garden to taste fresh strawberry products and explore the food plaza.
• Watch sunrise or sunset from Arthur’s Seat, one of Mahabaleshwar’s most famous viewpoints.
• Explore scenic hill viewpoints such as Elephant’s Head Point and Kate’s Point.

Places to Stay in Mahabaleshwar

Dawn Ecstasy

The Deck

7. Matheran (Maharashtra)

Matheran in summer is a unique eco‑sensitive hill station near Mumbai where private vehicles are not allowed within the main town. Known for its red soil paths, dense forests, and cliff viewpoints, it offers a peaceful alternative to crowded hill destinations.

Weather Matheran in April and May:

20–32°C. April is warm but shaded by dense greenery, with comfortable mornings and evenings. In May, afternoons can touch 30–32°C, but the absence of traffic, tree cover, and breezy points make it feel cooler than the plains.

How to get to Matheran:

• Nearest Airport: Mumbai International Airport (approx. 90 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Neral Junction (toy train to Matheran)
• Bus Connectivity: Buses till Neral; taxis till Dasturi Naka
• Important Route: Mumbai–Pune Highway (NH48) till Neral

Why April and May are ideal:

April is a good month to visit Matheran before the monsoon season arrives. Clear skies allow panoramic views across the Western Ghats from famous viewpoints. The moderate temperatures make it ideal for walking trails since vehicles are not permitted inside the town. May is popular for weekend and school-holiday trips; all viewpoints and toy train services (subject to operation) enhance the experience despite higher footfall making Matheran one best places to go in India in May.

Attractions in Matheran:

• Panorama Point
• Echo Point
• Charlotte Lake

Things to do:

• Ride the historic Neral–Matheran toy train through forested mountain tracks.
• Trek between viewpoints such as Panorama Point, Louisa Point, and Echo Point.
• Explore Charlotte Lake, a scenic water reservoir surrounded by forest hills.
• Enjoy horse rides across the red‑soil pathways connecting major viewpoints.

8. Mount Abu (Rajasthan)

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan and a refreshing escape from the desert climate of the state. Surrounded by the Aravalli mountain range, it offers lakes, temples, and cool forests.

Weather in Mount Abu in April and May:

20–33°C. April is warm in the day but pleasant compared to Rajasthan plains, with cooler evenings. In May, afternoons can reach 30–33°C, yet mornings and nights remain breezy, especially around Nakki Lake and higher viewpoints.

How to get to Mount Abu:

• Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport (approx. 175 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Abu Road Railway Station (28 km)
• Bus Connectivity: RSRTC buses from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur
• Major Highway: NH27 connects Abu Road to major cities

Why April and May are ideal:

April offers a pleasant climate before Rajasthan’s intense summer heat peaks in May and June. Clear skies also enhance views from hilltop viewpoints like Guru Shikhar. The moderate weather makes boating, temple visits, and sunset viewpoints particularly enjoyable. Mount Abu in May becomes a key summer escape for North-West India; despite warmer afternoons, evenings, boat rides, and sunset points remain enjoyable.

Mount Abu places to visit:

• Dilwara Temples
• Nakki Lake
• Guru Shikhar

Things to do:

• Explore the intricately carved Dilwara Jain Temples known for their marble architecture.
• Enjoy paddle boating or row boating at Nakki Lake surrounded by scenic hills.
• Visit Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravalli Range offering panoramic views.
• Watch sunset at Honeymoon Point overlooking dramatic Aravalli landscapes.

Best place to stay in Mount Abu

Mangal House by the Lake

Which Hill Stations in Northeast India Are Best in April? and May

9. Darjeeling (West Bengal)

Darjeeling undoubtedly tops the list of best places to travel in India in May. It is a historic Himalayan hill station known worldwide for its tea plantations and breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Located in West Bengal, the town combines colonial heritage with stunning mountain scenery.

Weather in Darjeeling in April and May:

11–20°C. April weather in Darjeeling is cool, fresh, and ideal for sightseeing. Mornings are crisp with clear mountain visibility, while afternoons remain comfortably mild for exploring tea estates and viewpoints. In May, temperatures rise slightly (15–22°C), with occasional cloud cover; mornings remain cool and evenings can be chilly.

How to get to Darjeeling:

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (approx. 70 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP)
• Bus Connectivity: Shared jeeps and buses from Siliguri/NJP
• Major Highway: Hill Cart Road connects Siliguri to Darjeeling

Why April and May are ideal:

April marks the beginning of the famous Darjeeling first flush tea harvest, making it a special time for tea lovers. Rhododendron forests across the Eastern Himalayas bloom during this season, adding vibrant colours to the landscape. Clear skies also improve sunrise views of Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill. May is peak tourist season due to vacations, with all attractions active; light clouds may appear but do not significantly affect sightseeing.

Places to visit:

• Tiger Hill
• Batasia Loop
• Peace Pagoda

Things to do:

• Watch the iconic sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill viewpoint.
• Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train through mountain landscapes.
• Visit tea estates to experience tea plucking and sample fresh Darjeeling tea.
• Walk around Batasia Loop gardens and explore the war memorial viewpoint.

Best Place to Stay in Darjeeling

Peppermint @ Arya Treetops and Tea Trails

10. Shillong (Meghalaya)

Shillong, often called the “Scotland of the East,” is a scenic hill station in Meghalaya surrounded by waterfalls, forests, and rolling hills. The city serves as a gateway to many of Northeast India’s natural attractions.

Weather in Shillong in April and May:

14–24°C. April weather in Shillong is cool, fresh, and ideal for outdoor exploration. Light mountain breezes keep the climate pleasant throughout the day, while evenings remain comfortably cool. In May, conditions remain similar with slightly warmer afternoons, but frequent clouds and occasional pre-monsoon showers keep the climate cool and fresh.

How to get to Shillong:

• Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi, limited flights) / Guwahati Airport (best option, 120 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
• Bus Connectivity: Regular buses and shared taxis from Guwahati
• Major Highway: NH6 connects Guwahati to Shillong

Why April and May ideal:

April offers one of the best times to visit Shillong because waterfalls are active and the surrounding hills remain lush after spring showers. The weather is comfortable for long drives to nearby attractions like Cherrapunji and Dawki. May brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds than mainstream hill stations, making it perfect for a quieter summer vacation with pleasant weather.

Places to visit:

• Umiam Lake
• Elephant Falls
• Shillong Peak

Things to do:

• Enjoy kayaking or boating at the scenic Umiam Lake surrounded by pine forests.
• Visit Elephant Falls to see multi‑tier waterfalls cascading through forest cliffs.
• Drive to Shillong Peak for panoramic aerial views of the entire city and surrounding hills.
• Take day trips to nearby attractions such as Cherrapunji’s caves and living root bridges.

Quick Comparison: Weather and Travel Conditions in April

Hill Station	Region	April Temperature	May Temperature	Crowd Level (April)	Crowd Level (May)
Shimla	North	12–22°C	15–28°C	Moderate	High
Mussoorie	North	10–20°C	14–26°C	Moderate	High
Nainital	North	11–21°C	15–27°C	Moderate	High
Ooty	South	15–23°C	17–25°C	Moderate	High
Munnar	South	16–24°C	18–26°C	Low–Moderate	Moderate
Mahabaleshwar	West	18–28°C	20–32°C	Moderate	High
Matheran	West	20–28°C	22–32°C	Low	Moderate
Mount Abu	West	17–30°C	20–33°C	Moderate	High
Darjeeling	East	11–20°C	13–22°C	Moderate	High
Shillong	Northeast	14–24°C	16–26°C	Low	Moderate

Travel Tips for Summer Hill Station Trips (April–May)

Planning a May or April trip to hill stations in India requires balancing weather patterns, tourist flows, and regional travel conditions. The following practical tips help travellers plan smoother and more comfortable trips.

1. Book Accommodation Early but Avoid Peak‑Weekend Rates

• Choose mid‑week stays (Mon–Thu) to avoid weekend price spikes in places like Mahabaleshwar, Nainital, and Shimla.
• Hill towns often have limited inventory; boutique hotels and homestays sell out quickly.
• If travelling with family, pick properties close to town centres to avoid steep uphill walking.

2. Pack for Layered Weather

• Light sweater or jacket for evenings
• Breathable daytime clothing for sunny afternoons
• Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain
• Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV exposure is stronger at altitude)

For Himalayan destinations like Shimla, Mussoorie, and Nainital, evenings can feel 5–8°C cooler than daytime temperatures.

3. Start Sightseeing Early in the Morning

• Visit popular viewpoints before 9 AM.
• Plan outdoor activities like boating, trekking, or photography early.
• Reserve afternoons for cafes, markets, or indoor attractions.

Early mornings also offer clearer mountain views before afternoon haze develops.

4. Plan Transportation Carefully in Hill Regions

• Use local taxis or experienced hill drivers for longer drives.
• Avoid late‑night travel in mountain regions due to fog or low visibility.
• If self‑driving, ensure the vehicle has good brakes and sufficient fuel, as petrol stations can be sparse in smaller hill towns.

For destinations like Matheran, remember that private vehicles are not allowed beyond Dasturi Naka, so walking, horses, or hand‑pulled carts are used to reach the main town.

5. Check Seasonal Attractions and Bloom Cycles

• Rhododendron blooms in Himalayan regions such as Mussoorie and Darjeeling.
• Tea harvest season beginning in Munnar and Darjeeling.
• Flower gardens in Ooty and Coonoor reaching peak bloom.

Planning around these natural cycles can significantly improve the travel experience.

6. Manage Altitude and Hydration

• Drink more water than usual
• Avoid heavy meals during long travel days
• Take time to acclimatise on the first day

Most travellers adjust quickly, but gradual activity helps avoid discomfort.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Hill stations in India are one of the best places to visit in April May in India, especially for summer vacations and school holidays. April offers pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and relatively fewer crowds, making it ideal for peaceful getaways and scenic travel. May, on the other hand, marks the peak summer travel season in India, with lively tourist activity, family trips, and vibrant hill station experiences.

Popular destinations like Shimla, Manali, Ooty, and Nainital are among cool places to visit in India in May during this period with perfect weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Choosing the right hill station in April and May depends on whether you prefer quiet escapes or bustling summer holiday energy.