May hits different in Manali. Manali in May brings that sweet spot weather everyone talks about - around 10-25°C, where you can actually enjoy being outside without layers of jackets or sweating buckets.
Manali in may month is when the place really shows off. The mountains are clear, everything's green, and there's this fresh mountain air that makes you want to stay longer. No winter freezing, no monsoon dampness - just good weather for doing stuff.
A Manali trip in May opens up all the possibilities. Rohtang Pass usually clears up by then, so there's snow to play with even when it's pleasant down in town. Paragliding works, rafting's on, and trekking doesn't feel like torture. The downside? Everyone else figured this out, too. May is the time for crowds and expenses, so advance booking isn't only wise - it's a must.
Organising everything from hotels to transport to activities can quickly become complicated. Our Himachal tour packages organise the logistics so there is more time to enjoy the trip rather than scrambling around making arrangements.
May just works for Manali. Simple as that.
Look, if you’ve ever thought about taking up a Manali trip in May, just do it. Seriously. The weather? Kinda perfect-not freezing your butt off, but not sweaty, either. We’re talking 10 to 25°C, which is basically Goldilocks weather. Nights might bite a little, so don’t be a hero-bring that jacket you pretend you don’t own.
And here’s the kicker: those high-up spots like Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass? Still rocking enough snow for you to mess around, but without the whole “my face is frozen” vibe of actual winter. So you can throw snowballs or make a lame snowman without losing your fingers to frostbite.
May in the valleys is just...alive. Flowers everywhere, rivers doing their thing, air so fresh you’ll forget you’re breathing pollution every other day back home. You want adventure? Go nuts-paragliding, ziplining, whatever. Or maybe just wander around, or plop yourself in a cafe and pretend you’re in a Bollywood movie. Adventure mixed with chilling out? Kullu Manali in May is basically the answer. Why overthink it?
Manali in May? Oh man, that’s the sweet spot. You finally ditch the bone-chilling cold, more numb toes, thank you very much-but it’s not like you’re melting in the sun either. Days are just right for, well, pretty much anything: hiking, biking, random wandering, you name it. Nights do get a bit nippy, but honestly, just toss on a jacket and you’re golden.
Here’s the real kicker: May is when you get the best of both worlds. The town’s all green and alive, but head up to Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass-bam, there’s still snow to mess around in. So you could be sipping chai in a sunlit cafe in Manali one minute and throwing snowballs up in the mountains the next. Not gonna lie, it’s kind of magical.
Best Places to Visit in Manali in May
There are so many spots to explore when you visit Manali in May. Here are some Best Places to Visit in Manali in May:
Alright, if you’re even half an adrenaline junkie, Solang Valley will eat you alive in a good way. May turns the whole place into this rolling, green playground where people are paragliding, zorbing, maybe even skiing if you go up high enough. Snow lurks up top so you can still get your snow fix, but down below, it’s all sunshine and chill vibes. It’s also one of the best spots to see snow in Manali in May, making it perfect for photos.
Rohtang Pass is like nature’s own snow fortress, sitting way up at 13,000 feet. Even in May, it’s still buried in white, so you can chuck a snowball and go skiing or snowboarding while your friends back home are sweating it out. The drive up? Insane. Imagine waterfalls just doing their thing, giant snow walls giving you that “are we in Narnia?” vibe. But hey, don’t forget to sort out your permits first-there’s a daily cap on vehicles, and trust me, you don’t wanna be that guy turned away at the gate.
This one’s a vibe shift- Hadimba Devi Temple, tucked inside a dreamy cedar forest, is basically the chill-out zone of Manali. It’s got this cool, old-school wooden architecture, and the whole place smells like pine needles. May brings out the flowers, so it’s ridiculously pretty. If you’re feeling all zen, just wander around, let the silence sink in, and maybe try not to get photobombed by a stray cow.
Nothing like ending a day of trekking and exploring with a dunk in the Vashisht Hot Springs. The hot water bubbling up here is supposed to work miracles on your tired muscles-locals swear by it. Plus, there’s a temple right next door if you’re looking to top up your karma. In May, the weather’s just right for a soak, not too cold, not too sweaty. Honestly feels like the mountains are giving you a warm hug.
This one’s for those who don’t mind a bit of a walk- Jogini Waterfall is a short trek out from Vashisht Village, and the trail is all about those tall deodar trees and peeks at the valley below. The waterfall itself? Straight-up magical. Water crashing down rocks, the mist in your face. In May, everything’s green and alive, and the path’s easy enough to tackle in sneakers, no hardcore gear needed.
Manikaran’s a little hop away from Manali (like, 85 km-so maybe not a literal hop), but totally worth it. The place is famous for its hot springs that, according to local legend, can heal just about anything. The Gurudwara there serves up free food to everyone, and honestly, nothing beats hot dal and rice after a long ride. Plus, you’ve got the Beas and Parvati rivers colliding right nearby, which is just cool to look at.
If you’re into castles with a side of apple orchards, Naggar Castle is your jam. The whole place looks like it fell out of a fairy tale, located above the Kullu Valley with big, sweeping views. The architecture’s got this whole “medieval Himachal” thing going on, and May brings out the best in the surrounding gardens. Bring your camera, or just chill on the balcony pretending you’re royalty. No one will judge.
Okay, trekking fans, this is your moment- Bhrigu Lake sits at a dizzy 14,000 feet, and even in late May, you might find it frozen over. The hike is no joke, but the views? Unreal. Think endless mountains, valleys, clouds doing their dramatic dance. It’s smart to go with a guide-don’t try to be Rambo out there, the trail gets tricky.
Old Manali’s where you go when you want to vibe with the locals, sip coffee in quirky cafes, and do a little shopping for stuff you probably don’t need but definitely want. May brings perfect weather-warm days, cool nights. Walk along the river, duck into a shop for some handmade jewellery, maybe grab a plate of momos. It’s the laid-back side of Manali that just feels good.
Things to Do in Manali in May
If you love activities, Things to Do in Manali in May won’t disappoint:
1. Paragliding in Solang Valley
Solang Valley is basically the OG spot for adventure junkies. And in May? Oh man, it’s chef’s kiss-those blue skies, the air’s just right, and the view? Unreal. You’re literally flying above green meadows that look straight out of a Windows XP wallpaper, with snow still chilling on the peaks. Doesn’t matter if you’re a paragliding pro or the kind of person who gets nervous on escalators-tandem flights with instructors have got your back. It’s safe, but it doesn’t kill the buzz. Just pure adrenaline, no regrets.
Price Range: Short Fly (2 minutes): ₹1,000–₹1,500
Long Fly (10–15 minutes): ₹3,000–₹3,500
2. River Rafting in the Beas River
If you’re not getting drenched in the Beas by May, what are you even doing? The rapids are Grade II and III, which means you get a solid mix of wild and “I’m not gonna die, right?” vibes. Thanks to all that snowmelt up in the mountains, the water’s moving fast-aka perfect for screaming your head off and pretending you’re in an action movie. The Pirdi to Jhiri stretch is where all the cool kids go. Seriously, it’s a blast.
Approx Price: ₹700–₹1,000 per person for standard rafting sessions. Longer or group rides: Up to ₹2,800 for a 14 km stretch, or group discounts apply.
3. Trekking to Bhrigu Lake
This trek is the sweet spot-challenging enough to make you feel accomplished, but not so brutal you need a Rocky-style montage just to finish. You’re hiking through flower-filled meadows with insane mountain views. May’s the magic month: the lake starts to thaw, so you get that glassy, mirror-like water. It’s the kind of peace that makes you forget your phone exists for a second.
Organised trek cost: ₹3,500 per person for a 3-day getaway, including tents, meals, guide, and transport.
Mall Road’s got this vibe-always buzzing, always up to something. Shops everywhere, hawking everything from woolly hats (which, let’s be honest, you’ll probably never wear at home) to quirky local crafts. May’s weather is perfect for walking around, people-watching, and finding treasures you didn’t know you needed. Plus, snack stalls are everywhere. Who says no to momos?
5. Visit to Hidimba Devi Temple
Located in a forest that looks like something out of a fairy tale, the Hidimba Devi Temple is the definition of chill. You show up, and it’s just…quiet. Peaceful, but not boring. The architecture’s got its own quirky charm, and in May, flowers are popping off everywhere. Sit for a bit, take it all in. Even if you’re not spiritual, it’s a cool spot to reset.
6. Exploring Jogini Waterfall
If you’re up for a little adventure without feeling like you’re auditioning for Survivor, the trek to Jogini Waterfall is a win. It’s a short walk from Vashisht Village, shaded by these massive deodar trees, and now and then you catch glimpses of the valley below. Get to the falls, and the sound alone is worth the trip-nature’s own ASMR. May’s when everything’s fresh and green, so yeah, go for it.
7. Relaxing at Vashisht Hot Springs
Picture this: you’ve been running around all day, your legs are toast, and then-bam-natural hot springs. Vashisht is famous for these, and honestly, sinking into that warm water is pure bliss. Locals say the springs heal all sorts of aches. Science or not, it feels amazing. Plus, there’s a temple nearby, so you get this double dose of zen and history.
Entry: Free (yes, totally free!)
Timings: 7:00 AM–1:00 PM and 2:00 PM–9:00 PM
Want another solid trek in Manali? Lama Dugh’s your answer. It’s not some hardcore expedition, but it’ll get your heart pumping. The trail takes you through forests and meadows, with mountain views that’ll make you forget about your inbox for a while. May’s weather is just right-not too hot, not too cold. No wonder everyone’s hitting this trail when the season rolls around.
Guided Trek Packages: Around ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person, often including a guide, sometimes transport, meals, or camping gear.
Travel Tips for Manali in May
- Clothing: Pack light woollens for daytime and heavier jackets for the evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable trekking shoes are essential for exploring the trails.
- Health: Stay hydrated and carry necessary medications, as the altitude can cause mild altitude sickness.
- Permits: If planning to visit Rohtang Pass, obtain the necessary permits in advance.
- Connectivity: Mobile networks may have limited connectivity in remote areas, so inform your family about your itinerary.
A Manali trip in May is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Himachal Pradesh. The Manali in May weather is perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and even snow fun at higher altitudes. From Solang Valley Manali in May to Rohtang Pass, temples, waterfalls, and local markets, there’s something for everyone.
Whether it’s adventure, nature, or relaxation you’re after, Manali in May offers it all. Plan your trip, pack wisely, and get ready for a mountain holiday you’ll never forget.
