The dream of sipping hot chai while observing the beautiful mountain peaks brushed in snow under glittering blue skies becomes a reality at Manali in May. The experience of Manali during May matches exactly how you picture it to be. The location feels neither intensely cold nor warm since snow floats through the atmosphere. The sky remains entirely visible through the clear air while both plant life displays its green hue and the mountain peaks keep their snowy appearance. Manali functions as the perfect place for summer enjoyment, where visitors can choose between active adventure pursuits or calm relaxation near the riverside. With our Manali tour package, discover why May stands as the optimal month to visit Manali and experience its enchanting essence.
Weather of Manali in May
Manali’s climate in May presents a nice blend of fresh air with low temperatures that stay between 2°C and 13°C. Clear sunshine fills each day, making it suitable to enjoy hiking trails, Mall Road shopping, and sightseeing activities. During evenings, the weather creates an ideal environment for building bonfires while you watch the night sky.
The town of Manali does not experience snowfall during May, yet you will find snow at Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. During May, visitors can experience snow scenery together with a moderate climate free of severe wintertime conditions.
- Manali Temperature in May (Daytime): 10°C- 13°C
- Manali Temperature in May (Night Time): 2°C- 5°C
- Snow in Manali in May: There exists a snow view visible from elevated mountain locations.
- What To Pack: Tourists must bring three essentials, which are light winter jackets, thermals together with walking shoes.
How To Reach Manali?
May brings clear weather that makes reaching Manali through scenic routes convenient. Transparent weather conditions allow access to every route through open roads. Reaching Manali is not a big task, as multiple options make accessibility to Manali convenient.
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport stands as the closest airport to Manali (50 km away). You can reach Manali through flights coming from Delhi, along with Chandigarh.
- By Train: People traveling by train need to reach Joginder Nagar Railway Station, as it stands 145 kilometers from the destination. Bus and cab transportation services are available at this location.
- By Road: Most popular option! People can reach this location by taking buses and taxis and utilizing self-driving from three different cities, including Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
Tip: Drive from Delhi to Manali by passing through Mandi because the route provides amazing views of waterways and pine tree forests.
Best Places to Visit in Manali in May
May brings flowers to bloom while the rivers shine clear. The Clear skies along with living hills create a wonderful scene. The 5 remarkable places in Manali during May present spectacular attractions for every type of vacationer.
1. Solang Valley
Throughout May, the Solang Valley serves as the prime destination that attracts people looking to experience snow-based thrills. The destination offers people a harmonious combination of winter romanticism, together with springtime enchantment beneath snowy mountains and electric green hills. Both families who enjoy climbing snow structures and taking photos together, and adventurous people who prefer ATVs and paragliding activities, find satisfaction in visiting this destination. Panoramic views in this area include distant glaciers and horses that move through the snowfields. The destination satisfies every need for tranquility as well as recreation.
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2. Rohtang Pass
Reaching Rohtang Pass is your only solution to feel real snow during May. Due to its high elevation position of 13000 feet, Rohtang Pass remains stacked in snow longer than other local spots. The journey toward the destination will stay in your mind forever as you navigate through the cascading waterfalls separated by towering snow walls. Tourists across Rohtang Pass engage in snowman building as well as skiing and enjoy taking in the mountain atmosphere. Travellers’ dream of reaching such an elevated vantage point is fulfilled at the Rohtang Pass.
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3. Hadimba Temple
Hadimba Temple offers visitors a serene sanctuary because it rests among towering cedar trees. The wooden structure, with its pagoda-style roof and ancient stonework, offers a unique mix of history and spirituality. Hadimba Temple receives its blooming flower display in May, while its forest shade provides relaxation on even hot days. Tourists should visit this area to experience peace alongside photo opportunities and learn about local culture.
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4. Vashisht Hot Springs
Travel to Vashisht when the breeze from May becomes too cold. Travelers can find relaxation in this town because of its well-known thermal waters. Visitors believe the hot springs possess calming qualities that can both revive and heal visitors through a dip into the water. The place offers a tranquil environment with temple views while providing mountain scenery that allows visitors to combine their desire for adventure with spiritual experiences. People tend to enjoy their daily fatigue with soothing hot baths at this location.
5. Jogini Waterfall
Those who immerse themselves in the hike towards Jogini Waterfall will find their labour rewarded with a beautiful and tranquil natural splendour. A hiking trail starting from Vashisht village takes visitors to a waterfall with the surroundings of magnificent Deodar trees. The combination of water sounds with fresh mountain wind and valley outlook enables this location to become an ideal destination for relaxation and concentration in Manali in May. Jogini Waterfall offers potential walkers an ideal strolling experience in May with its sunny conditions and abundant wildflowers and butterflies.
Things to Do in Manali in May
Several attractions combine in Manali in May for those who want a snow experience and hike through the mountains, together with cultural experiences. The landscape becomes more beautiful every day because clear skies and flowing rivers create exciting opportunities for discoveries in each part of the scenery.
1. Paragliding in Solang Valley
To experience this view crosswing through snow-white summits while visiting Solang Valley remains beyond the reach of words. During May, people love to experience paragliding at Solang Valley because of its popularity among adventure sports enthusiasts. Perfect weather conditions exist alongside ideal wind conditions, which reveal breathtaking views of incomparable beauty. You will have the chance to see distant towns and rivers, and forests during your airborne journey.
Suffice to say, this adventure represents both a thrilling experience along safety protocols while becoming an unforgettable memory. People with no experience can participate in tandem flights under the supervision of certified instructors.
- Location: Solang Valley
- Timings: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
- Cost: Paragliding in Solang Valley costs between ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 based on flight duration.
- Tip: Wear protective sunglasses together with a well-fitted jacket when engaging in paragliding flights.
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2. River Rafting in the Beas River
The season of May brings Himalayan glacier melts that create perfect water conditions for rafting along the Beas River. Cold waters rush swiftly through exciting terrain under supervised conditions, which provide overall safety. The forested terrain and stony riverbanks surround rafters as the spraying water keeps their spirits high. The white-water rafting creates significant excitement because grade II and grade III rapids generate strong adrenaline effects. There is no better way to find relief from the heat while experiencing Manali's adventurous aspect.
- Location: Pirdi to Jhiri stretch
- Timings: 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
- Cost: ₹500- ₹1,200 per person
- Tip: The key to remaining comfortable during rafting is to bring along another set of clothes.
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3. Trekking to Lama Dugh
People who enjoy nature, along with silent paths and scenic routes, must experience the trek to Lama Dugh. The intermediate-level hiking trail departs from Manali to journey through woodland areas as well as flowering plains and viewpoints of elevated altitudes. The Manali in May weather creates excellent walking conditions for the adventure, which also provides opportunities to spot snow patches. From the summit, visitors have an incredible view of Deo Tibba and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges.
- Starting Point: Hadimba Temple, Manali
- Timings: The round-trip trek duration for this destination amounts to 5- 6 hours.
- Cost: Travelers may access this attraction at no cost, although guide inclusion incurs an additional expense.
- Tip: Early commencement of your hike will be smoother when you bring along sunscreen and water, along with snacks.
4. Shopping at Mall Road
Every Manali travel journey includes at least one walk down the Mall Road. May brings a vibrant atmosphere to the market that maintains its moderate level of customer traffic. The blend of local handicrafts along with woollen clothes, wooden artifacts, and Tibetan souvenirs converts this area into an appealing shopping destination. Alongside momos and cafe aromas permeating the air, the charm of the place becomes even greater.
Shoppers can discover presents and edibles, and timeless memories through this concentrated shopping area. A relaxed evening walk following sightseeing activities offers an excellent experience at this venue.
- Location: Central Manali
- Timings: 10:00 AM- 9:00 PM
- Cost: The shops maintain different pricing structures, and admission is free.
- Tip: When visiting these stalls, you should approach with polite offers and taste the delicious apple jam products.
5. Cafe Hopping
The month of May suits people who enjoy going to different cafes in Manali for their dining experiences. With open-air seating, wooden interiors, and views of the mountains, the cafes here feel like cosy storybooks. Johnson’s Cafe and Cafe 1947 offer their guests the chance to drink coffee and eat pizza, both by the river and under fairy lights. Every cafe in this town has its distinct atmosphere, which the fresh breeze enhances to deliver a delightful drinking experience. You can find live music performances among certain establishments during their evening shift.
- Location: Old Manali & Mall Road
- Timings: 10:00 AM- 11:00 PM
- Cost: ₹300- ₹800 for two (approx.)
- Tip: While visiting, spend your time eating Himachali trout along with thukpa specialty and having chai tea.
Manali in May offers an ideal atmosphere that combines fresh spring scenery with early summer activities. Multiple peaks retain their snow cover while gorges shine with colorful blooms of flowers, and temperatures exist between comfortable and pleasant. Every experience in this place creates unforgettable moments since you can enjoy rafting and paragliding alongside temple visits and stopping at cafes. Manali serves complete peace alongside delightful adventurous activities within one complete experience. Pack your luggage and fully power your camera to receive stories from the mountains and embark on this lifetime-worthy adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How warm does Manali become in May?
The temperature pattern in this month follows a cool daytime period that gradually turns into cooler nighttime conditions across the range from 2°C to 13°C.
2. Is there snow in Manali in May?
The higher locations, such as Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, deliver snow sightings during May, but local town areas seldom receive snowfall.
3. How is the Manali climate in May?
The May climate creates outstanding conditions that match all types of sightseeing while offering opportunities for trekking and engaging outdoors.
4. What type of clothing do I need when visiting Manali in May?
All travelers should pack warm clothing, including jackets, woollens, gloves, and thermal wear, which they should use during evening visits when visiting snowy areas.
5. Is Rohtang Pass open in May?
The availability of Rohtang Pass opening for visitors in May depends on snow clearance operations. Permits may be required.
