07-05-2025Manali In May: Weather, Places & Travel Tips
Looking for an ideal summer escape from the scorching heat? Manali in May is the perfect getaway with pleasant weather and exciting adventures. This beautiful hill station, situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a paradise during May, making it one of the best times to explore this Himalayan gem.
This TripzyGo guide will help you discover everything you need to know about visiting Manali in May, from weather conditions to must-visit attractions and exciting activities that will make your journey unforgettable.
How is the Weather in Manali During May?
May is the peak season in Manali, offering comfortable temperatures that are perfect for outdoor activities. Manali temperature in May typically ranges between:
- Daytime temperature: 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F)
- Nighttime temperature: 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F)
The weather remains pleasantly cool compared to the heat experienced in most Indian cities during this time. With clear skies and moderate sunshine, May presents ideal conditions for sightseeing and adventure activities. Light rainfall might occur occasionally, but it usually doesn’t disrupt travel plans, making it the best time for vacation.
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Top 5 Places to Visit in Manali in May
Manali in May is a traveller’s paradise, with clear skies, blooming landscapes, and many must-visit spots finally opening up after winter.
Rohtang Pass
Finally accessible after winter closure, Rohtang Pass (at 13,050 ft) reopens in May, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. The melting snow creates beautiful streams while some patches still remain for snow activities. The winding journey up to Rohtang is an experience in itself with dramatic mountain vistas at every turn.
| Location: | Located on the eastern end of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Timing: | The daily visiting hours are typically from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit: | The best time to visit Rohtang Pass is from May to October |
| Things to do | Skiing, snowboarding, sledging, trekking, mountain biking, sightseeing, photography, paragliding |
Solang Valley
Just 14 km from Manali town, Solang Valley transforms in May with vibrant wildflowers and beautiful mountains. It’s the adventure hub of Manali in May, where you can enjoy paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. The valley offers spectacular views, especially during sunrise and sunset hours.
| Location: | Located at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Timing: | No specific timing, but activities generally start from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit: | May-June is perfect for adventure sports and has pleasant weather. |
| Things to do | Paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, zorbing, quad biking, snowmobiling, ropeway, trekking, camping, horse riding, sightseeing |
Hadimba Temple
This ancient wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba is surrounded by cedar forests that are particularly beautiful in May. The 24-meter-tall temple showcases remarkable architecture with its intricate woodwork and pagoda-style roof.
| Location: | Located in the Dhungri forest area of Manali, Himachal Pradesh, about 3 km from the Manali bus stand |
| Timing: | The temple is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM |
| Best Time to Visit: | March to June and September to November; avoid the monsoon season |
| Things to do | Admire unique Himachali wooden architecture, learn mythology, go on nature walks, and visit the Ghatotkacha shrine. |
Old Manali
Experience the charm of Old Manali with its bohemian cafes and vibrant markets. Manali in May buzzes with energy as apple orchards begin to bloom and the Manalsu River flows from melting mountain snow.
| Location: | Located about 3 km uphill from Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Timing: | Open year-round; businesses typically open 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit: | The best time to visit is from March to June |
| Things to do | Explore cafes and restaurants, shop for handicrafts, visit Manu and Hadimba Temples, and experience local culture. |
Naggar Castle
Located 22 km from Manali, this 500-year-old medieval stone and wood castle offers spectacular views of the Kullu Valley. May is perfect for visiting as the surrounding landscapes are lush green and flowers bloom in the castle gardens. The castle also houses an art gallery featuring works by Russian painter Nicholas Roerich.
| Location: | Located in Naggar, a town in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Timing: | Naggar Castle is generally open to visitors during the daytime |
| Best Time to Visit: | The best time to visit is in the Spring season (from March to May) |
| Things to do | Explore the castle, visit shrines and the museum, enjoy views, and stay at a heritage hotel. |
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5 Best Things to Do in Manali in May
May is one of the best times to explore Manali, with pleasant weather and a perfect mix of adventure and nature. From thrilling outdoor sports to peaceful nature escapes, Manali in May offers something for every kind of traveller.
River Rafting in the Beas River
Manali in May brings the perfect water levels for white water rafting in the Beas River as mountain snow begins to melt. Experience thrilling rapids ranging from Grade II to IV on different stretches. The 14 km stretch from Pirdi to Jhiri offers the most exciting rafting experience with beautiful riverside scenery.
Trekking to Bhrigu Lake
In May, trekking routes open up that remain inaccessible during winter. The Bhrigu Lake trek (14,100 ft) is particularly beautiful this time of year with alpine meadows covered in early summer blooms. This 3-day trek offers spectacular views, making it one of the best things to do in Manali.
Paragliding in Solang and Billing
With clear skies and stable air currents, May offers ideal conditions for paragliding in Manali. Take off from the slopes of Solang Valley for a short flight or head to nearby Billing for longer flights. The aerial views of the lush green valleys and snow-capped peaks are simply breathtaking.
Visit Apple Orchards
May is when apple orchards around Manali begin to bloom with beautiful white and pink flowers. Take a guided orchard tour in areas like Naggar and Raison to learn about apple cultivation and enjoy the sweet fragrance that fills the air. Many orchards also offer fresh apple products and tastings.
Camping by the Riverside
Experience the magic of camping by the riverside in areas like Simsa Village and Banjar Valley. Manali’s temperature in May is best for overnight camping, with starlit skies and the soothing sound of flowing water. Many camps organise bonfire evenings with local Himachali folk music and dance performances.
Events and Festivals in Manali in May
May in Manali is a vibrant time filled with cultural celebrations and outdoor adventures. From traditional festivals to thrilling treks, the town comes alive with events that showcase its rich heritage and natural beauty.
Hadimba Devi Festival (Mid-May)
If you go to Manali in May, you can see the colourful Hadimba Devi Festival celebrating the local goddess. The three-day festival features traditional Kullu folk music, dance performances, and a lively procession. Local artisans sell handcrafted items, which you can take home as Himachali souvenirs.
Summer Trekking Festival
The Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports usually organises special trekking events and mountaineering courses in May. These programs are for both beginners and experienced trekkers, and they offer guided adventures to various peaks and passes around Manali.
Packing Tips for Visiting Manali in May
To ensure a comfortable experience in Manali in May, you must pack the following items with you:
- Light woollens and windcheaters for evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for sun protection.
- A light rain jacket or umbrella for occasional rainfalls.
- Carry moisturiser and lip balm.
- A camera to capture the stunning views.
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Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip to Manali
For a stress-free and fun trip to Manali in May, here are some tips that will help you:
- Book accommodations in advance, as May is one of the peak tourist seasons.
- Start your day early for Rohtang Pass visits to avoid long queues for permits.
- Keep extra days in your itinerary for weather changes.
- Carry sufficient cash as ATMs might have long queues during tourist season.
- Stay hydrated despite the cool weather, as higher altitudes can cause dehydration.
- Hire a local guide for trekking and adventure activities for safety.
- Try local Himachali cuisine at authentic restaurants like Drifters’ Inn and Johnson’s Cafe.
Visit Manali this May with TripzyGo
Manali in May is the perfect time to experience this beautiful hill station. The pleasant weather creates ideal conditions for exploring this Himalayan paradise without the extreme cold of winter or the heavy rains of monsoon. Book your Manali trip with TripzyGo and let us handle every detail of your journey. Our customised Manali tour packages ensure you experience the best of Manali in May, from adventure activities to cultural experiences, with comfortable stays and hassle-free transportation.