The month of May is firmly in the middle of India’s blazing summer. Temperatures in both North and South India are at their peak, so it’s a good month to retreat to the mountains and escape the heat. While there won’t be many foreign travelers to compete with, this is summer vacation in India and there’s a spike in domestic tourism—you’ll want to book your hilltop retreat in advance.
May in India presents a diverse tapestry of weather conditions, influencing travel plans and experiences across the subcontinent. From scorching plains to pleasantly cool mountain ranges, understanding the climatic variations is crucial for planning your Indian adventure during this time. The crowds are a mix of domestic tourists seeking refuge from the heat and fewer foreign tourists because the weather is too hot in many areas.
In Delhi and its encompassing regions, the month of May is characterized by extreme heat and aridity. Average high temperatures can soar to a sweltering 105°F (approximately 40°C). The dryness further intensifies the discomfort, making it essential to stay hydrated and seek shelter during the hottest parts of the day. Prepare for relentless sunshine and consider indoor activities or early morning/late evening excursions to mitigate the effects of the heat in Delhi.
Similar climatic conditions prevail in Rajasthan, a state renowned for its desert-like environment. Expect intense heat, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. The arid landscape exacerbates the high temperatures, creating a challenging environment for outdoor activities. Rajasthan in May demands careful planning, with a focus on staying cool, hydrated, and protected from the sun. However, mornings and evenings are pleasant in the desert cities of Rajasthan.
Venturing further south, Chennai also grapples with significant heat during May, with temperatures frequently reaching 100°F (around 38°C). The lack of substantial rainfall further intensifies the heat, making it crucial to adapt to the conditions. Consider visiting museums, temples, and other indoor attractions during the day in Chennai and enjoying the sea breeze in the evenings.
The coastal metropolises of Mumbai and Goa offer a slightly more tempered climate in comparison. While still warm and muggy throughout the year, May sees highs around 93°F (approximately 34°C) and lows of 79°F (around 26°C). The humidity can be quite intense, but the presence of sea breezes provides some relief. Expect a mix of sunshine and occasional cloud cover in Mumbai and Goa.
In certain regions of India, May marks the transition period leading up to the monsoon season. Kolkata, for instance, experiences an average of seven rainy days during the month. These pre-monsoon showers can bring temporary relief from the heat and offer a glimpse of the approaching monsoon. Expect humid conditions and the possibility of thunderstorms in Kolkata.
Kerala, in the southwestern part of India, experiences even more rainfall during May, with an average of up to 11 rainy days. The pre-monsoon showers help to lower the temperature and bring some respite from the intense heat. Kerala offers lush green landscapes and a welcome change from the arid conditions in other parts of the country.
The Himalayas stand out as a haven of pleasant weather in India during May. At higher altitudes, temperatures typically hover around a comfortable 80°F (approximately 27°C) during the day, dropping to a cooler 50°F (around 10°C) at night. The crisp mountain air and stunning scenery make the Himalayas an ideal destination for escaping the heat. However, the foothills can still experience quite high temperatures, so pack accordingly.
Due to the intense heat in many regions, May sees a dip in the number of international tourists visiting India. However, domestic tourism is in full swing as Indian families seek refuge in the cooler hill stations. Popular mountain resorts tend to get crowded, so advance booking is highly recommended.
When it comes to choosing a destination to visit to beat the heat in May, a lot of travelers flock to the Himalayas. Make sure to bring warm clothes for the evenings as it can get cold. Because the Himalayas is such a vast range, spread across several Indian states, where you choose to go depends on road accessibility, site accessibility, and also what you’re hoping to see.
Nestled between Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, Sikkim emerges as an excellent choice for a May getaway. Darjeeling, renowned for its scenic beauty, is at its prime during this month, offering favorable temperatures and a wealth of activities. You could also explore the charming hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, such as Manali, known for their breathtaking landscapes.
For a unique experience, consider venturing to the hill stations in southern India. One such destination is Ooty, situated in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. It is known for lush, green mountain landscapes. Ooty promises a refreshing escape from the heat.
If you visit the Himalayas, take the opportunity to participate in various outdoor sports offered by the popular resort towns, such as water rafting and mountain biking. If you travel to Darjeeling, remember that the town is renowned for its tea plantations, so a tour and tea purchase are in order. In May, you can also go hiking on any of India’s mountain ranges, enjoying the mild weather and blooming flowers.
India is a land of year-round festivals, and May is no exception.
For elephant enthusiasts, Thrissur Pooram, one of the most significant temple festivals in Kerala, is an unmissable event. Celebrated with an impressive fireworks display and a parade featuring dozens of colorfully adorned elephants, this festival offers a spectacle that cannot be missed.
Those who visit Ooty in May may have the opportunity to attend the town’s Summer Festival, a weeks-long celebration that features a variety of events such as musical performances, dances, and fruit and flower shows.
Additionally, the important Buddhist holiday, Buddha Jayanti, is typically celebrated in May according to the lunar calendar. Prayer meetings and sermons at Buddhist pilgrimage sites throughout India mark the festival.
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