10 Must-Visit Destinations For A Cool And Refreshing Vacation In India This May

India is a diverse and beautiful country with numerous places to visit and explore. If you are planning a vacation in May, there are plenty of cool destinations in India that you can consider. From beaches to hill stations, here are 10 cool places you can plan a vacation in India in May.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a popular tourist destination located in the Bay of Bengal, off the eastern coast of India. These islands are a group of 572 islands, out of which only around 36 are inhabited. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush green forests, and rich marine life, making them a perfect destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the Radhanagar Beach, which has been rated as the best beach in Asia by Time magazine. This beach is known for its white sands, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets. Other popular beaches in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include Corbyn's Cove, Elephant Beach, and Vijaynagar Beach.

The islands are also home to several interesting historical sites, including the Cellular Jail, which is a former British colonial prison that was used to house political prisoners. The jail now serves as a national monument and museum, showcasing the struggle for Indian independence. Ross Island is another historical site, which was once the administrative headquarters of the British Raj in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also a great destination for adventure sports. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and sea-walking are popular activities in the region, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life and coral reefs. The islands are also home to several trekking trails, including the Mount Harriet National Park and the Saddle Peak National Park, which offer stunning views of the surrounding forests and coastline.

In terms of accommodation, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a range of options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. The islands are well-connected by air and sea, with regular flights and ferries connecting them to mainland India. With its pristine beaches, lush green forests, and rich marine life, this destination is a must-visit for anyone traveling to India in May.

Ladakh

Ladakh is a high-altitude region in the northernmost part of India, nestled in the Himalayas. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventure sports. May is a great time to visit Ladakh, as the weather is pleasant and the snow starts to melt, making it easier to access some of the high-altitude areas.

One of the most popular attractions in Ladakh is the Pangong Tso Lake, which is known for its crystal-clear blue waters. The lake is located at a height of 14,270 feet and is around 135 km long, with around 60% of it being located in China. The beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains is truly mesmerizing, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ladakh in May.

Another popular destination in Ladakh is the Nubra Valley, which is located at a lower altitude than other parts of Ladakh and is known for its lush green landscapes and scenic vistas. The valley is also home to several ancient monasteries and hot springs, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

The Leh Palace is another popular attraction in Ladakh, which was built by the king Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century. The palace is located in the heart of Leh and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The palace has now been converted into a museum, showcasing the rich history and culture of Ladakh.

For adventure enthusiasts, Ladakh offers several options, including trekking, rafting, and mountain biking. The Markha Valley Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Ladakh, offering stunning views of the Zanskar range and the Ladakh range. The Zanskar River is also a popular destination for white water rafting, with rapids ranging from grade II to grade V.

In terms of accommodation, Ladakh offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The region is well-connected by air and road, with regular flights and buses connecting it to major cities in India.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and colonial architecture. May is a great time to visit Darjeeling, as the weather is pleasant and the region is in full bloom with colorful flowers.

One of the main attractions in Darjeeling is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." The train runs on a narrow gauge track and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. The train ride takes around 7 hours and passes through several picturesque villages, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Darjeeling in May.

Another popular destination in Darjeeling is the Tiger Hill, which offers stunning views of the sunrise over the Himalayas. The hill is located at an altitude of 8,482 feet and is known for its panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. Visitors can reach the hilltop via a short trek or by taking a jeep ride.

Darjeeling is also famous for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest tea in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the tea gardens and learn about the process of tea-making. The Happy Valley Tea Estate is one of the most popular tea estates in Darjeeling and offers a stunning view of the Kanchenjunga range.

For adventure enthusiasts, Darjeeling offers several options, including trekking, paragliding, and mountain biking. The Sandakphu Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Darjeeling, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. Paragliding is also a popular activity in Darjeeling, with several paragliding sites offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

In terms of accommodation, Darjeeling offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The region is well-connected by air and road, with regular flights and buses connecting it to major cities in India.

Goa

Goa is a popular tourist destination located on the western coast of India. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese-influenced architecture. May is a good time to visit Goa, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the monsoon season has not yet started.

One of the main attractions in Goa is its beaches, which offer a range of activities from sunbathing to water sports. Some of the popular beaches in Goa include Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, and Candolim. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or trying out activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

Another attraction in Goa is its colonial architecture, which reflects the region's Portuguese influence. The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous churches in Goa and is known for its Baroque architecture. The Fort Aguada, built in the 17th century, is another popular attraction and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.

For adventure enthusiasts, Goa offers several options, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and trekking. Scuba diving is a popular activity in Goa, with several dive sites offering an opportunity to explore the underwater world. The trek to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, is another popular activity for adventure enthusiasts.

Goa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with several bars, nightclubs, and beach parties happening throughout the year. The Saturday Night Market in Arpora is a popular destination for those looking for a unique shopping and party experience.

In terms of accommodation, Goa offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in beachside shacks or opt for more luxurious options like villas or boutique hotels.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a small town located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India. It is considered one of the holiest places in India and is known for its spiritual significance, yoga, and adventure sports. May is a great time to visit Rishikesh, as the weather is pleasant, and the region is in full bloom with colorful flowers.

One of the main attractions in Rishikesh is its spiritual significance. The town is home to several ancient temples and ashrams that attract visitors from all over the world. The Triveni Ghat, located on the banks of the river Ganges, is a popular destination for devotees to take a dip in the holy waters and offer prayers. The Parmarth Niketan Ashram and the Swarg Ashram are popular destinations for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Rishikesh is also known as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and attracts yoga enthusiasts from all over the world. Visitors can attend yoga classes, workshops, and retreats at the several yoga schools located in the town. The International Yoga Festival, held annually in March, is a popular event that attracts yoga practitioners from all over the world.

For adventure enthusiasts, Rishikesh offers several options, including river rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining. River rafting in the Ganges is a popular activity in Rishikesh, with several rafting camps located along the river. Bungee jumping and zip-lining are also popular activities for adventure enthusiasts visiting Rishikesh.

Rishikesh is also home to several meditation and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments and therapies. Ayurvedic massages, acupuncture, and reflexology are some of the popular treatments that visitors can avail of.

In terms of accommodation, Rishikesh offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in an ashram to experience a traditional Indian way of living or opt for more luxurious options like hotels and resorts.

Coorg

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station located in the southern state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its lush green forests, coffee plantations, and scenic landscapes. May is a great time to visit Coorg, as the weather is pleasant and the region is in full bloom with colorful flowers.

One of the main attractions in Coorg is its natural beauty. The region is home to several waterfalls, including the Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Mallalli Falls. Visitors can also explore the Dubare Elephant Camp, where they can observe and interact with elephants in their natural habitat.

Coorg is also known for its coffee plantations, which are spread across the region. Visitors can take a plantation tour to learn about the process of coffee cultivation and taste the famous Coorg coffee. The region is also known for its spice plantations, where visitors can learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

For adventure enthusiasts, Coorg offers several options, including trekking, camping, and river rafting. The Tadiandamol Peak, the highest peak in Coorg, is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. Visitors can also camp in the forests and enjoy the serene beauty of the region. White water rafting on the Barapole River is another popular activity for adventure enthusiasts.

Coorg is also known for its rich culture and history. The region is home to several ancient temples and historical sites, including the Madikeri Fort and the Omkareshwara Temple. The Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

In terms of accommodation, Coorg offers a range of options, from budget homestays to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in the coffee plantations or opt for more luxurious options like villas or boutique hotels.

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station located in the western state of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush green forests, and strawberry plantations. May is a great time to visit Mahabaleshwar.

One of the main attractions in Mahabaleshwar is its natural beauty. The region is home to several viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Arthur's Seat, Wilson Point, and Elephant's Head Point are some of the popular viewpoints that visitors can explore. The region is also home to several waterfalls, including the Lingmala Falls and the Dhobi Falls.

Mahabaleshwar is also known for its strawberry plantations, which are spread across the region. Visitors can take a plantation tour to learn about the process of strawberry cultivation and taste the fresh strawberries. The region is also known for its honey production, and visitors can taste the local honey and buy honey-based products.

For adventure enthusiasts, Mahabaleshwar offers several options, including trekking, horse riding, and boating. The region is home to several trekking trails, including the Pratapgarh Fort trek and the Tapola trek. Visitors can also enjoy horse riding and boating in the Venna Lake.

Mahabaleshwar is also known for its rich history and culture. The region is home to several ancient temples, including the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Panchganga Temple, which is located at the confluence of five rivers, is another popular destination for devotees.

In terms of accommodation, Mahabaleshwar offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of the town or opt for more secluded options like villas or cottages.

Shimla

Shimla, also known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," is a popular tourist destination located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, India. May is a great time to visit Shimla.

One of the main attractions in Shimla is its natural beauty. The region is home to several viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Ridge, Jakhoo Hill, and Chadwick Falls are some of the popular viewpoints that visitors can explore. The region is also home to several lush green forests and parks, including the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary and the Annandale Army Heritage Museum.

Shimla is also known for its rich colonial history and architecture. The region was once the summer capital of British India, and the influence of the British Raj can be seen in the colonial buildings and churches that dot the town. Visitors can explore the Viceregal Lodge, the Christ Church, and the Gaiety Theatre, among other historical sites.

For adventure enthusiasts, Shimla offers several options, including trekking, paragliding, and skiing. The region is home to several trekking trails, including the Jakhu Temple trek and the Shimla to Chail trek. Visitors can also enjoy paragliding and skiing in the nearby Solang Valley and Kufri.

Mount Abu

Mount Abu is a scenic hill station located in the western state of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and stunning temples. May is a great time to visit Mount Abu.

One of the main attractions in Mount Abu is its natural beauty. The region is home to several viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Sunset Point, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar are some of the popular viewpoints that visitors can explore. The region is also home to several lush green forests and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary and the Achalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Mount Abu is also known for its stunning temples, which reflect the rich culture and history of the region. The Dilwara Jain Temples, which are renowned for their intricate marble carvings, are a popular destination for devotees and architecture enthusiasts. The Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, the Adhar Devi Temple, and the Raghunath Temple are other popular temples that visitors can explore.

For adventure enthusiasts, Mount Abu offers several options, including trekking, rock climbing, and boating. The region is home to several trekking trails, including the Mount Abu to Achalgarh trek and the Mount Abu to Guru Shikhar trek. Visitors can also enjoy rock climbing and boating in the Nakki Lake.

In terms of accommodation, Mount Abu offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of the town or opt for more secluded options like villas or cottages.

Munnar

Munnar is a beautiful hill station located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is known for its rolling hills, lush green tea plantations, and stunning waterfalls. May is a great time to visit Munnar .

One of the main attractions in Munnar is its natural beauty. The region is home to several viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The Top Station, Echo Point, and Mattupetty Dam are some of the popular viewpoints that visitors can explore. The region is also home to several lush green forests and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Eravikulam National Park and the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Munnar is also known for its tea plantations, which reflect the rich culture and history of the region. Visitors can explore the tea gardens and learn about the process of tea-making. The Tata Tea Museum is a popular destination for tea enthusiasts and history buffs.

For adventure enthusiasts, Munnar offers several options, including trekking, camping, and rock climbing. The region is home to several trekking trails, including the Munnar to Meesapulimala trek and the Chokramudi trek. Visitors can also enjoy camping and rock climbing in the nearby Bison Valley.

In terms of accommodation, Munnar offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of the town or opt for more secluded options like villas or cottages.