May is the perfect time for a cool summer escape in India. With school holidays and great discounts on travel, it’s peak vacation season. SavePlus India brings you the ultimate list of must-visit places along with top tips to save on bookings using promo codes, UPI offers, and cashback hacks.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a scenic town nestled in the Himalayas, perfect for a refreshing summer holiday. It attracts families, couples, and adventurers looking to beat the heat. The weather in May is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring and indulging in outdoor sports. From snow-capped peaks to bustling bazaars, Manali offers something for everyone. Travelers can enjoy budget stays and exclusive discounts during this season.
Best Time to Visit: May to June
Key Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Temple
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar)
Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
Places to Stay: Apple Country Resort, Johnson Lodge
Budget Per Person: ₹7,000–₹10,000
Pro Tip: Use MakeMyTrip promo codes for hotel stays at 30% off.
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is a charming hill station in South India, known for its picturesque landscapes and colonial architecture. It offers a perfect escape from the heat, with cool weather and blooming gardens. May brings a fresh burst of flowers and greenery, ideal for sightseeing. Families, honeymooners, and nature lovers flock here for a rejuvenating break. The town is also known for its aromatic homemade chocolates.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Botanical Garden, Doddabetta Peak, Ooty Lake
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Udhagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station
Places to Stay: Sterling Ooty, Gem Park Ooty
Budget Per Person: ₹6,000–₹9,000
Pro Tip: Book cottages on Cleartrip using PhonePe cashback deals.
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a tranquil hill station in Kerala, famous for its sprawling tea estates and misty landscapes. In May, the weather is soothing and ideal for trekking and sightseeing. The lush greenery and cascading waterfalls make it a paradise for nature lovers. It’s less crowded during this month, offering a peaceful retreat. You can also indulge in Ayurvedic therapies and organic shopping.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Key Attractions: Tea Gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station
Places to Stay: Tea County Resort, The Leaf Munnar
Budget Per Person: ₹6,500–₹8,500
Pro Tip: Apply HDFC credit card offers for an extra 5% cashback.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is a hill retreat known for its panoramic views and world-famous tea. In May, the town offers clear skies and a pleasant climate, perfect for sightseeing. The colonial charm of Darjeeling draws visitors looking for a blend of history and nature. You can enjoy traditional food, scenic train rides, and vibrant local culture. The serenity and coolness make it a top summer choice.
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Key Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Tea Estates
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station
Places to Stay: Mayfair Darjeeling, Windamere Hotel
Budget Per Person: ₹7,000–₹10,000
Pro Tip: Save big on jackets and shoes with Ajio summer offers.
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is a beautiful hill station with a majestic lake and charming streets. It is perfect for those looking for a laid-back vacation in pleasant weather. May brings out the best of the town with clear skies and boat-friendly conditions. It is also rich in cultural experiences and delicious street food. The lively markets offer great shopping for woolens and handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Mall Road
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
Places to Stay: The Naini Retreat, Shervani Hilltop
Budget Per Person: ₹5,500–₹8,000
Pro Tip: Combine RedBus coupons with SBI card deals for budget travel.
Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Ladakh, a land of rugged terrain and pristine lakes, opens up to tourists in May. The roads become accessible, and the weather is ideal for adventure sports. From high-altitude deserts to monasteries, Ladakh offers a unique travel experience. It is a favorite among bikers, photographers, and spiritual seekers. The views are surreal and unforgettable during this month.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Key Attractions: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh)
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Places to Stay: The Grand Dragon, Zostel Leh
Budget Per Person: ₹10,000–₹15,000
Pro Tip: Pay with UPI wallets to get extra cashback on travel gear.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is a lush green hill station in Karnataka known for its coffee plantations and wildlife. It offers cool temperatures and vibrant landscapes in May. The peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for nature walks and family trips. The region is also famous for its Kodava culture and spicy cuisine. Rainy drizzles in May add a magical touch to your travel experience.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Key Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja's Seat, Coffee Estates
Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station
Places to Stay: Evolve Back, Club Mahindra Madikeri
Budget Per Person: ₹6,000–₹9,000
Pro Tip: Earn rewards using Google Pay on domestic flights via Yatra.
Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station, offering relief from the arid heat. It provides a mix of heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty. In May, the weather is cooler than in the plains, drawing visitors from nearby cities. The town is dotted with temples, lakes, and green trails. It also offers excellent deals on budget hotels and shopping.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Nakki Lake, Sunset Point, Dilwara Temples
Nearest Airport: Udaipur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Abu Road Railway Station
Places to Stay: Hotel Hillock, Sterling Mount Abu
Budget Per Person: ₹5,000–₹7,500
Pro Tip: Book bus tickets with cashback from Freecharge UPI.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok is a vibrant capital city of Sikkim with a unique blend of culture and natural beauty. The views of the Kanchenjunga range are stunning in May. The city has well-maintained roads, cable cars, and friendly locals. With monasteries and bustling markets, it is an enriching experience. Accommodation and transport remain affordable during the early summer season.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: MG Road, Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery
Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station
Places to Stay: Elgin Nor-Khill, Summit Norling Resort
Budget Per Person: ₹7,000–₹9,000
Pro Tip: Apply SBI credit card deals for hotel bookings on MakeMyTrip.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is a less-explored jewel in Arunachal Pradesh, rich in history and nature. May is the best time to visit before the monsoons arrive. The region is home to India’s largest monastery and serene mountain passes. Travelers can enjoy peaceful landscapes away from the crowds. Homestays and food are reasonably priced, especially when booked early.
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Key Attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport, Tezpur
Nearest Railway Station: Tezpur Railway Station
Places to Stay: Dondrub Homestay, Hotel Tawang Heights
Budget Per Person: ₹6,500–₹9,000
Pro Tip: Check IRCTC discounts using RuPay cards for rail travel.
Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is a cultural gem of the Northeast, often referred to as the “Scotland of the East.” It offers cool temperatures, scenic beauty, and a thriving local music scene. In May, the hills are covered in mist, and waterfalls are in full flow, adding to their charm. The city's mix of colonial and tribal influences makes it a unique experience. It's ideal for solo travelers, couples, and photographers.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
Places to Stay: Ri Kynjai, Polo Tower, Shillong
Budget Per Person: ₹6,000–₹9,000
Pro Tip: Save with Mobikwik wallet offers on hotel bookings.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh is a peaceful yet adventurous destination nestled along the Ganges River. The spiritual town also offers thrilling activities like river rafting and bungee jumping. May is a great time to enjoy the river before the monsoon sets in. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for temple visits and yoga retreats. Budget accommodations and food make it a favorite among backpackers.
Best Time to Visit: February to May
Key Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, River Rafting
Nearest Airport: Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station
Places to Stay: Aloha on the Ganges, Zostel Rishikesh
Budget Per Person: ₹4,500–₹7,000
Pro Tip: Look for ICICI offers on weekend getaways via Cleartrip.
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar is a green paradise in Maharashtra, famous for strawberries, valleys, and lakes. It serves as a relaxing retreat for people from Pune and Mumbai. May is perfect to enjoy boating, nature trails, and fresh produce from local farms. The views from the hilltops are panoramic and rejuvenating. Budget homestays and family resorts are easily available during the summer.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Mapro Garden, Venna Lake, Arthur’s Seat
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station
Places to Stay: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar, Bella Vista Resort
Budget Per Person: ₹5,000–₹8,000
Pro Tip: Bundle stays and travel bookings using Amazon Pay.
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor is a quieter and more serene alternative to Ooty. It is perfect for travelers seeking solitude and unspoiled natural beauty. The lush green tea gardens and colonial bungalows give the town a vintage feel. May is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing in a cool environment. Coonoor is well-connected and offers tranquil accommodation options.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Key Attractions: Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Coonoor Railway Station
Places to Stay: 180 McIver Villa, Kurumba Village Resort
Budget Per Person: ₹6,000–₹8,000
Pro Tip: Pay via BHIM UPI and avail hotel discounts on Goibibo.
Gulmarg, Kashmir
Gulmarg offers one of the coolest and most beautiful summer getaways in India. In May, it retains snow in higher areas and is perfect for skiing, cable car rides, and nature walks. The meadow of flowers begins to bloom, making it picturesque. Ideal for honeymooners and families, it is a haven for snow sports lovers. Travel is best arranged in advance to secure great deals.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Key Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, St. Mary’s Church, Ski Slopes
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Places to Stay: The Khyber Himalayan Resort, Pine View Resort
Budget Per Person: ₹8,000–₹12,000
Pro Tip: Redeem CRED reward points for travel vouchers and cashback.
Conclusion
Whether you crave adventure, serenity, or cultural charm, India offers perfect summer escapes in May. With discount codes, UPI offers, and curated travel deals, your dream vacation can be easy on the wallet too. Let SavePlus India be your travel-savvy partner, helping you save smart while exploring India’s most refreshing destinations. Your coolest holiday starts here!
Unlock top travel deals and smart savings tips with SavePlus for a memorable and budget-friendly May vacation. Happy exploring!
FAQ
Which are the best hill stations to visit in May in India?
Manali, Ooty, Munnar, and Darjeeling are among the best hill stations for a cool retreat in May.
Are travel discounts available in May for domestic destinations?
Yes, platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and Cleartrip offer seasonal promo codes and bank offers during May.
What are the best payment options to avail of travel savings?
Use UPI apps like PhonePe, Paytm, or cards from HDFC, SBI, and ICICI for cashback and discounts.
Can I plan a budget-friendly summer trip within ₹7,000–₹10,000?
Absolutely! Destinations like Nainital, Mount Abu, and Rishikesh offer great trips under ₹10,000 with smart planning.
Where can I find coupons for hotels and travel gear?
Visit SavePlus.in for updated coupon codes, travel gear discounts, and wallet offers from Amazon, Flipkart, and Ajio.
